What is the difference between DTZ and TELC B1?

DTZ tests at A2-B1 level (your result can be either), while TELC B1 only tests at B1 level (pass/fail). DTZ is exclusive to integration course participants; TELC B1 is open to everyone. Both B1 certificates are equally accepted for immigration.

Can I take DTZ without an integration course?

No, DTZ is exclusively the final exam of BAMF-funded integration courses. If you did not take an integration course, take TELC B1 or Goethe B1 instead.

What if I only get A2 on the DTZ?

An A2 result gives you an A2 certificate, which may satisfy some permit requirements but is NOT sufficient for citizenship. You can: (1) retake DTZ once for free, (2) take additional repeat course hours and retake, or (3) take a standalone TELC B1 exam.

Is one free DTZ retake really free?

Yes, BAMF covers one free retake of the DTZ if you do not achieve B1 on your first attempt. To qualify, you must have regularly attended your integration course. Additional retakes beyond the second are at your own cost.

How hard is the DTZ compared to TELC B1?

The B1 portions of DTZ are equivalent in difficulty to TELC B1. The advantage of DTZ is that if you struggle, you still get an A2 certificate rather than failing completely. TELC B1 is pass/fail at B1 level only.

Can I take the DTZ oral and written on different dates?

Generally no—DTZ written and oral are scheduled together by your course provider. However, if you pass one part and fail the other, you can retake only the failed part.

How long is my DTZ certificate valid?

DTZ certificates do not expire for immigration purposes. A DTZ B1 certificate from years ago is still valid for citizenship or permanent residence applications.

What happens if I score "unter A2" (below A2)?

You do not receive a language certificate, only a participation confirmation. You can retake DTZ once for free, or take additional repeat course hours (up to 300 hours funded by BAMF) and then retake.

ImmigrationB1

DTZ Exam: Your Integration Course Final Test

Everything about the Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer (DTZ)—the final exam of your integration course—and what your result means for citizenship and residence permits.

Quick Summary

The DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer) is the mandatory final exam of the German integration course. It tests at A2-B1 level, and your result determines your certificate. A B1 result satisfies language requirements for both Niederlassungserlaubnis and Einbürgerung. An A2 result may still qualify you for certain permits. You can retake the DTZ once for free through BAMF if you don't pass.

Start Practicing Free Official Source

Legal Basis

Law

§17 Abs. 1 IntV

Requirement

Completion of integration course with DTZ exam

Effective Date

2005-01-01

Official Source

View law text

Accepted Certificates

Certificate	Provider	Note
DTZ with B1 result	telc GmbH / BAMF	Full B1 certificate. Valid for citizenship and permanent residence.
DTZ with A2 result	telc GmbH / BAMF	A2 certificate. May satisfy some permit requirements. Not sufficient for citizenship.
DTZ (mixed result)	telc GmbH / BAMF	e.g., A2 written + B1 oral. Certificate shows your actual levels.

How to Get Your Certificate

Complete your integration course

The DTZ is taken at the end of the 600-hour general integration course (or specialized courses like literacy courses).

Tip: You cannot take DTZ independently—it is only for integration course participants.

Understand the exam structure

DTZ has written (Reading, Listening, Writing—100 minutes) and oral parts (Speaking—15 minutes in pairs). Results can range from "unter A2" to "B1."

Prepare in your course

Your integration course should include DTZ preparation. Practice with model exams available free from telc and BAMF.

Tip: Ask your teacher for official DTZ practice tests—they match the real format exactly.

Take the exam

Exam is usually held at your course provider. Bring valid ID. Results are available in 4-6 weeks.

Understand your result

B1 in both parts = B1 certificate. A2 in one or both = A2 certificate with detailed levels. Under A2 = no certificate but attendance confirmation.

Plan next steps based on result

B1: Use for citizenship/permit applications. A2: Consider retaking or taking TELC B1 separately. Under A2: Retake is free through BAMF (one time).

Timeline by Starting Level

Standard integration course

Preparation Time

600 hours (6-12 months)

Total Time

6-12 months + 6 weeks for results

Intensive integration course

Preparation Time

400 hours (4-6 months)

Total Time

4-6 months + 6 weeks for results

DTZ retake (after A2 result)

Preparation Time

2-3 months additional study

Total Time

Next available exam date + 6 weeks

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost	Note
DTZ exam (first attempt)	Included in course	Part of integration course fee or BAMF funding
DTZ retake (once free)	€0	BAMF covers one free retake if you don't pass
Additional DTZ retakes	€150-180	If you need more than two attempts
TELC B1 (alternative)	€190-240	If you prefer to take a standalone B1 exam instead

Recommended Exams

DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer)

Your integration course final—included in course, first retake free

TELC Deutsch B1

Alternative if you want to skip DTZ retake—standalone exam, more flexible scheduling

Related Guides

B1 for Citizenship

B1 for Permanent Residence

Failed B1 Exam? Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

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