Digital Goethe B1: Differences from Paper and Online Exam Rules
Last updated: 8 October 2026 · Verified against current official Goethe-Institut sources
Some centres also offer the Goethe-Zertifikat B1 digitally. Two formats are easily confused: the digital exam is taken in person at the exam centre on the centre's laptop, while the online exam is taken remotely on your own computer under certain conditions. Content and grading criteria are the same as on paper; what changes is how you answer and the exam-day rules.
Paper, digital and online compared
| Paper | Digital | Online | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where | Exam centre | Exam centre | Your own room |
| Device | — | Centre's laptop | Your own computer |
| Listening audio | Room audio | Headphones | Speakers (no headphones) |
| Answer sheet | Yes | No | No |
| Speaking task | Paper | Paper | — |
What changes in the digital exam
- You enter your answers and texts directly on the platform and can change them until you submit the module or time runs out.
- You do not need to set aside the roughly 5 minutes that the paper exam reserves within Reading and Listening for transferring answers.
- Writing is typed on a German keyboard; learn where ä, ö, ü and ß are before the exam.
- Listening texts are played through the platform via headphones.
- If needed you can get stamped rough paper from the centre for every module.
- The platform scores the multiple-choice items in Reading and Listening automatically; Writing and Speaking are still rated by two independent examiners using the same criteria as on paper.
Technical requirements for the online exam
- Device: a mains-powered desktop, laptop or Chromebook; a smartphone as a second camera if required.
- One screen only; multiple monitors or dual screens are not allowed.
- Internal or external speakers and a microphone built into the computer or webcam. Headphones with or without a microphone and in-ear headphones are not allowed.
- The camera must be movable to give a 360° view of the room, including the table top and underside.
- Google Chrome browser; the proctoring provider's browser is supplied at the technical check and on exam day.
- Internet: at least 5 Mbit/s upload and download, 10 Mbit/s recommended. The keyboard language must be German.
Room and conduct rules for the online exam
- A quiet, well-lit room; rooms with more than one door or large glass fronts are not allowed.
- No other people or pets in the room; door and windows closed.
- Only the computer, your photo ID and, if used, keyboard and speakers on the desk; drawers are emptied and checked.
- Your face and ears must stay visible throughout; no smartwatches, analogue watches, jewellery near the face, scarves or ties.
- Phones and other mobile devices are switched off and placed out of reach.
Candidates are responsible for meeting the technical requirements; close every programme not needed for the exam right before it starts.
Official sources
The exam rules and figures in this guide were checked against the official sources below.
Related guide
Get used to answering on screen and typing
Work through timed Goethe B1 tasks on screen at Zertifly and type your writing to prepare for the digital exam.