In what order are the modules taken?

The recommended order is READING – LISTENING – WRITING; the exam centre may change this sequence for organisational reasons.

Are there breaks between the modules?

Yes, a break of at least 15 minutes must be provided between each of the written modules.

What kind of pen should I use?

A non-removable ballpoint, fibre-tip or gel pen in black or blue. Only markings and text produced with these are graded.

Is rough paper provided?

Yes. The exam centre supplies stamped rough paper for Writing and Speaking; at the end of the module everything, including the rough paper, is collected.

May I use my notes in the speaking exam?

Yes, you may use the brief keyword notes you prepared during the 15 minutes of preparation.

Goethe B2 Exam Day: Sequence, Rules and What to Bring

Level:B2Duration:~3 h 15 minFee:Varies by centreValidity:UnlimitedFormat:Modular

Last updated: 21 September 2026 · Verified against current official Goethe-Institut sources

Exam day at Goethe B2 holds no surprises if you know the sequence in advance. The written modules take about 180 minutes in total without breaks and normally precede the oral module.

How the written modules run

Before each module all participants prove their identity and the invigilator gives the organisational instructions.
The exam documents and answer sheets are distributed without comment; every task is explained on the documents themselves.
Personal details are recorded first, and only then does the actual exam time begin.
Reading is normally first: answers are marked on the exam documents and transferred to the answer sheet at the end, with about 5 minutes of the exam time set aside for the transfer.
Listening follows after a break, again with about 5 minutes for transferring answers.
In Writing the text is composed directly on the answer sheet; if you draft on rough paper first, allow enough time to transfer it.
At the end of each module all documents, including the rough paper, are collected.

The oral module on the day

A suitable room is provided for preparation; the exam documents are handed out without remark and stamped rough paper is supplied for notes.
Preparation lasts 15 minutes, and the brief notes you make may be used during the module.
Two examiners run the module: one moderates, and both take notes and grade independently.
In the introductory exchange the examiners introduce themselves and have a short conversation; this part is not graded.
At the end all documents, including the rough paper, are collected.

What to bring — and what to leave

Bring	Leave at home
A valid ID card or passport	Dictionaries and translation apps
Black or blue non-removable ballpoint / fibre-tip / gel pens	Mobile phones and mobile devices
Your registration confirmation or invitation	Your own paper (rough paper is provided)
Water and a small snack for the breaks	Erasable pens or pencils

Handwritten texts must be legible, and markings must follow the specifications on the answer sheet.

Official sources

The exam rules and figures in this guide were checked against the official sources below.

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Rehearse exam day in advance

Work through the modules back to back with realistic timing on Zertifly so the pace of the exam day feels familiar.