The FIDE test assesses your proficiency in Switzerland’s national languages. It consists of two parts: oral (speaking and comprehension) and written (reading and writing), and takes about an hour and a half to complete. Results are sent by mail directly from your test center in approximately four weeks.
A FIDE certificate, which confirms language proficiency in French, Italian, or German at levels A1 to B1 (based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or ‘CEFR’), is often required for residence permits or naturalization. German Academy Zurich is here to help you master the German language so you can breeze through the FIDE certification and begin your life in Switzerland!
Who Needs FIDE Test Certification?
Non-Swiss nationals who want to work, live, or settle in Switzerland, and are at least sixteen years old, typically need FIDE test certification. Passing the exam demonstrates that you have a good grasp of Switzerland’s official languages so that you can seamlessly integrate into the community.
How Do I Get FIDE-Certified?
To receive FIDE test certification, you must first register for the exam and then take the test. Once you pass, you’ll receive a Language Passport that validates your language skills.
So, how does the FIDE test scoring system work? The FIDE test is assessed based on CEFR guidelines. There’s no fail rating. Instead, you’re classified into a language level based on your result.
Registering for the FIDE Test
You can register online for the FIDE test with any test center in Switzerland, but you must do so at least fifteen days before the test date. When registering, you can opt to take the entire FIDE test or complete one part at a time.
The language you are tested on will depend on where you live in Switzerland. For example, if you’re settling in Lucerne or Zurich, you’ll need to pass the German FIDE test. If you live in a bilingual area, you may choose which language you want to be tested on.
Taking the FIDE Test
The FIDE test consists of two parts: oral and written.
The oral exam checks your ability to speak and understand the language you’re testing for. You’ll listen to short audio recordings, answer some questions about what you heard, and converse with an examiner–usually about your personal situation or experience in Switzerland.
The written test gauges how well you can read and write in your target language.
Passing the FIDE Test
Once you pass the FIDE test, you receive a Language Passport that attests to your language proficiency level. You can use this for various purposes, including naturalization, residence permits, further education, and job applications.
You can take the FIDE exam as many times as you’d like until you pass. You can even retake it if you believe that you’ve improved your skills and want a record of a higher result.
Get FIDE-Certified With German Academy Zurich
German Academy Zurich is the leader in Swiss German language teaching. We offer specialized German expertise and classes, innovative courses and learning experiences, and AI-powered learning assistance.
Enroll in our German language courses to master the language anytime, anywhere. You’ll get the perfect blend of a private language teacher and an AI-assisted learning platform.
After your course, you’ll receive an A1 or A2 level certificate, and you’ll be prepared to pass the FIDE test and receive your Language Passport. Choose a course and sign up on our website to start your German learning journey today!
