Goethe B2 or telc B2: structure and duration compared
Unlike at B1, the Goethe and telc B2 exams genuinely differ in structure. Goethe is modular — each module can be retaken on its own. telc combines reading and language elements into one long block and is taken as a whole.
| Criterion | Goethe-Zertifikat B2 | telc Deutsch B2 |
|---|---|---|
| Level | B2 | B2 |
| Country | DE | DE / AT |
| Parts | 4 | 4 |
| Objective items | 60 | 60 |
| Written duration | 180 min | 140 min |
| Speaking duration | 15 min | 15 min |
| Pass mark | 60% | 60% |
| Sections | Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen | Leseverstehen + Sprachbausteine, Hörverstehen, Schriftlicher Ausdruck, Mündlicher Ausdruck |
Which should you choose?
- ·Choose Goethe if retake flexibility matters: a single failed module can be repeated on its own.
- ·Choose telc if your school or centre offers it — it is more common in German integration and vocational courses.
- ·telc's long block demands more time-management practice than Goethe. Always practise with a timer.
This page explains exam structure and is not legal or official advice. Requirements for residence, citizenship or recognition must be checked with the responsible authority — they change.
Try both exams before you decide
On Bestehn you can generate a full mock exam for each, with exactly the structure above — so you can see which suits you before paying an exam fee.