telc B1 vs DTZ A2–B1: Which Examination Fits?
Last updated: August 2026 · 8 min read
telc Deutsch B1 and the Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer (DTZ) both test four skills, but they are not the same examination. telc B1 is a single-level general-language certificate; DTZ is a dual-level A2–B1 test used at the end of an Integrationskurs.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | telc Deutsch B1 | DTZ A2–B1 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | General German B1 certificate | Integrationskurs language final |
| Result scale | B1 pass / fail | B1, A2 or no certificate |
| Written time | 90 + about 30 + 30 min | 100 min |
| Oral | About 15 min; 20 min preparation | About 15 min |
| Pass logic | 60% written and 60% oral separately | Speaking B1 + listening/reading or writing B1 (planned from 1 Nov 2026: remaining area at least A2) |
How DTZ awards B1
BAMF and § 10 IntTestV state that an overall B1 requires B1 in speaking and B1 in at least one of Hören und Lesen or Schreiben. Under the current rule the remaining area may even fall below A2; a draft by the Federal Interior Ministry plans that from 1 November 2026 this area must reach at least A2. A candidate who leaves Schreiben blank would then no longer get an overall B1.
DTZ therefore reports actual performance across A2–B1. A candidate who misses B1 but meets A2 requirements may receive an A2 certificate.
The telc B1 pass rule
telc B1 requires at least 135/225 in the written examination and 45/75 in the oral examination. A high score in one cannot offset a shortfall in the other.
The exam totals 300 points and has a separate Sprachbausteine subtest. A failed written or oral partial examination can be retaken with credit for the passed part within 12 months.
Which should you choose?
If you attend an Integrationskurs, DTZ is the normal language final. For a direct, course-independent and single-level B1 certificate, telc Deutsch B1 is the more typical option.
For citizenship, residence, work or education, do not rely on general recognition claims. Ask the receiving institution to confirm the accepted test and required skill coverage in writing.
Official sources
Dates, timings, scores and procedures were checked against the primary sources below.
Related telc B1 guides
Learn by practising the telc B1 format
Practise reading, listening, writing, speaking and Sprachbausteine in exam format on Zertifly.