Goethe or telc: What to Choose?

If you're deciding between the Goethe exam and the telc test, there's no single right choice for everyone. Choosing between the Goethe versus telc exams comes down to several factors, including the exam format, how you perform in different sections, where you need the certificate, available exam dates, and cost. Both are recognized German language exams, but the best option for you depends on your specific goal.

Before booking your exam, you should first check which certificates are accepted by the authority, university, employer, or other organization requesting proof of your German level. This is especially important if you need German for a Swiss residence permit, citizenship, integration, or another official purpose. If both exams are accepted, you can then compare the formats and practical differences to find the one that suits you best.

In this article, we'll help you decide. We'll explore the differences between the exams and answer some of the most important questions, such as:

• Are both exams valid?
• Which exam is easier?
• How do the exam formats and scoring differ?
• Which exam dates are available in Zurich?
• How much do the exams cost?
• Where can you find test samples?

Let's Look at the Exam Structure

The structure of both exams is similar. They are divided into four parts: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. However, there are some slight differences. When it comes to the telc test for levels B1 and B2, the test has a section called 'Language Elements' that focuses especially on grammar and vocabulary.

The Goethe format eliminated that pure grammar section. However, the Goethe exam has a stronger focus on writing. While in the telc test (levels B1 and B2) there are only thirty minutes planned for the writing activity, in the Goethe exam, the writing task takes up to sixty minutes (B1) and seventy-five minutes (B2).

This means that there is more emphasis placed on the writing task, and the task will be more complex. Depending on what you're good at, this information might help you decide which format is better for you.

More Grammar Means More Predictability

Pure grammar exercises are usually more predictable. You can study and practice them beforehand in detail. Writing tasks, on the other hand, are not predictable. You don't know exactly which topic will await you, and writing freely leaves more room for mistakes. Most people struggle more with open questions that they have to answer in an essay than with closed grammar questions.

If you feel that applies to you, the telc exam is a better choice for you. However, if you enjoy writing and feel confident in it, go for the Goethe exam.

How Flexible Are the Exam Dates?

You can take the telc exam at numerous telc testing centers in Zurich. The list can be found in this article.

telc examination centers can set examination dates individually, which means you have much more flexibility regarding exam dates. The Goethe exam in Zurich is only held at the Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften (ZHAW). The ZHAW only runs five exam sessions a year, which means you're much more limited in terms of examination dates.

How Much Do the Exams Cost?

The price for the telc test is set by the telc examination centers individually and can therefore vary. In general, it's a little cheaper than the Goethe exam. Check out the articles on the Goethe exam and the telc test to find the exact price lists.

Generally, if you're looking for the cheaper option, the telc test is for you!

Still Indecisive? Compare Both Exam Formats Before You Decide

If you're still not sure which exam to take, we recommend doing a mock exam in both test formats to find your individual preference. You can find mock exams for the telc test and the Goethe exam at all levels here.

So, What's the Bottom Line?

Our Personal Choice: telc

Our personal winner is the telc test because it is:

• Cheaper
• More grammar-focused, meaning more predictable
• More flexible

Goethe or telc: Which One Is Right for You?

Both the Goethe and telc exams can be good choices, but the right one depends on your goals, strengths, budget, and timeline. If you're still unsure which exam format suits you best, German Academy Zurich can help you prepare with personalized one-on-one German lessons and targeted exam preparation. Our teachers can help you understand what to expect and build your confidence before exam day.

Ready to prepare for your German exam? Choose your course and start learning German today!