telc exams
@ GLS Campus Berlin
FAQ: telc Deutsch / telc German in Berlin
Questions about telc German certificates? We are happy to help:
- +49 30 780089 - 12
- exam@gls-berlin.de
When do telc Deutsch exams take place?
At GLS in Berlin, telc Deutsch B1 & B2 exams take place all year round:
- see all telc exam dates at GLS in Berlin
- registration possible via this form.
How do telc Deutsch exams at GLS work?
At GLS, the written and oral sections of the exam take place on the same day. We usually begin around 08:30, and the day can last until 16:00 (4 pm).
The exact finish time depends on the schedule for the oral exams. These are typically conducted in pairs, though individual examinations or groups of three are also possible.
What to expect: Approximately two weeks before your exam, you will receive an email from us with your personalized schedule and all the details for your exam day.
Is the telc Deutsch exam paper- or PC-based?
The written part is paper-based. The oral exam is done by examiners on site.
Which items can I take into the exam room?
Only pencils and transparent drinking bottles are allowed in the examination room. Electronic devices (mobile phones, laptops, smartwatches, etc.) as well as bags and jackets are not allowed. You can leave these items with us in the waiting room.
How long does each part of the exam take?
| telc Deutsch | B1 | B2 | C1 Hochschule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading comprehension | 90 minutes | 90 minutes | 140 minutes |
| Listening comprehension | 30 minutes | 20 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Written expression | 30 minutes | 30 minutes | 70 minutes |
| Oral exam* | 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 16 minutes |
* Usually together with another candidate. Preparation time: 20 minutes.
Are there breaks between the parts of the exam?
Yes, there is always a main break between the written and oral parts of the examination. Regarding the written section itself:
- B1 & B2 Exams: There are no breaks during the written section.
- C1 & C1 Hochschule Exams: There is a scheduled 20-minute break inside the written section (right after the Reading Comprehension & Language Elements modules).
What result do I need to pass the telc Deutsch exam?
You need at least 60% to pass the telc Deutsch exam. In the written part (reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written expression), weaker components can be compensated for by stronger results in other components. The table below shows the maximum number of points possible and the minimum number of points required to pass.
| Exam | Written max. / min. | Oral max. / min. | Total max. / min. |
|---|---|---|---|
| telc Deutsch B1 | 225 / 135 | 75 / 45 | 300 / 180 |
| telc Deutsch B2 | 225 / 135 | 75 / 45 | 300 / 180 |
| telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule | 166 / 99 | 48 / 29 | 214 / 128 |
What happens if I pass only one part (written or oral) and fail the other?
If you pass one section (written or oral) with at least 60% but fail the other, the overall result is "Failed." However, you don't have to retake everything! You can carry over your passing score to your next attempt.
How it works:
- Partial Credit: You only need to repeat the section you failed.
- 12-Month Limit: This option is only available if you retake the exam within one year (12 months) of your first attempt.
How to apply: When registering for your retake at GLS, you must provide us with the official result sheet from your previous exam.
Please note: Credit is always applied based on your most recent exam result.
How long does it take to receive my telc German certificate?
The evaluation process usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks.
Once telc gGmbH sends the certificates to us, we will notify all participants immediately via email. You then have two options:
- Pick-up: You can collect your certificate or result sheet in person at the GLS office.
- Postage: If you prefer to receive it by mail, you must provide us with a stamped, self-addressed A4 envelope on the day of your exam.
How long are telc German certificates valid?
No validity is stated on the certificate. However, universities or companies have their own condition on the validity of a certificate.
Where can I get a replacement certificate if I have lost my original?
If you need a new certificate, please contact telc gGmbH. You will need to complete an online form and will then receive a new certificate.
Can I take the exam if I have a disability (e.g., deafness, blindness, dyslexia)?
Yes, we are happy to help. You can apply for "special arrangements" to ensure you have the support you need.
- Requirement: We need official medical documentation (not older than 2 years).
- Deadline: Due to the processing time required by the exam institute, you must register for special arrangements at least 4 weeks before the exam.
Please contact us as early as possible so we can ensure everything is perfectly prepared for you.
What happens if I need to cancel or rebook my exam?
You can withdraw from or rebook your exam before the registration deadline. The following conditions apply:
- More than 15 days before the exam: You will receive a refund minus a 30% cancellation fee.
- After the registration deadline: (Usually 14 days before the exam; 4 weeks for special exams). At this stage, withdrawal is no longer possible, and the fee is non-refundable.
- In case of illness: If you provide an official medical certificate (Attest), you will be refunded the exam fee minus a 30% GLS cancellation fee and a 14 € telc processing fee. For more details, please review our full our terms and conditions.
How do I prepare for my telc German exam?
GLS offers special preparation courses. It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the exam format. If you don't want to take a course, you can find here free sample exams for all levels.