telc B1 vs ÖSD Zertifikat B1: Key Differences
Last updated: August 2026 · 8 min read
telc Deutsch B1 and ÖSD Zertifikat B1 certify the same CEFR B1 level but use different structures. The main distinction is four independent ÖSD modules versus telc's written and oral partial examinations.
Structure and timing
| Feature | telc Deutsch B1 | ÖSD Zertifikat B1 |
|---|---|---|
| Modules | Written + oral partial exam | 4 independent modules |
| Reading | 90 min shared with Sprachbausteine | 65 min |
| Listening | About 30 min | About 40 min |
| Writing | 1 email, 30 min | 3 tasks, 60 min |
| Speaking | 3 parts, about 15 min | 3 tasks, about 15 min |
The modularity difference
ÖSD B1 lets you take and certify all four skills separately. If all are passed at the same centre within one year, an additional overall certificate is issued.
telc does not permit a single subtest retake. Instead, the written or oral partial examination can be repeated and the passed main result credited within 12 months.
Task design
telc writing is one personal or semi-formal email covering four prompts. ÖSD's official description lists an informal email, a personal expression of opinion and a short formal apology.
telc speaking covers getting acquainted, discussing a topic and planning together. ÖSD uses a planning conversation, a short presentation and a question or response to the other presentation.
Which is a better fit?
If completing one skill on a separate date is important, ÖSD's four-module system is more flexible. If you have trained telc's Sprachbausteine and pair interaction, telc may feel more familiar.
Never assume both certificates are automatically interchangeable for a specific application. Ask the receiving institution about the exact exam name and overall-versus-module certificate requirement.
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.