What is the telc exam?
telc is a globally recognized German language testing provider that follows the requirements of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). All telc German exams test the four language skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
Die telc-Prüfungen prüfen grundsätzlich Standarddeutsch in Alltagssprache und es gibt darüber hinaus berufsorientierte Sprachtests.
Where and how do I want to learn?
In-person
Hybrid
Online
Group course
Private course
Intensive Course
Our 2026 Exam Dates
Anmeldung zu den Prüfungen
Anmeldefrist 24.07.2026
Prüfungsdatum 24.08.2026
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telc German Exams and Exam Preparation Courses
Anmeldung zu den Prüfungen
Anmeldefrist 28.08.2026
Prüfungsdatum 28.09.2026
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telc German Exams and Exam Preparation Courses
Anmeldung zu den Prüfungen
Anmeldefrist 02.10.2026
Prüfungsdatum 02.11.2026
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telc German Exams and Exam Preparation Courses
Anmeldung zu den Prüfungen
Anmeldefrist 06.11.2026
Prüfungsdatum 07.12.2026
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telc German Exams and Exam Preparation Courses
Recognized worldwide and throughout Switzerland
- Employers in Switzerland and Europe
- Swiss immigration authorities
- Swiss authorities for naturalization procedures
- Universities and colleges
- Professions and professional associations for specialists (e.g., healthcare, medicine, business)
telc or Goethe? Which is right for me?
Both certificates are equivalent and internationally recognized. They are issued by German language institutes, either telc or the Goethe-Institut. The main difference is that telc offers many different exam formats, such as telc German A2-B1 Switzerland with reference to everyday Swiss life or telc German for Healthcare. telc focuses primarily on everyday or professional use of the language, while Goethe is more academically oriented. Which exam is considered easier depends on your personal learning style.
Take your telc German exam at Wordculture
Prices by Level
telc Deutsch A1 CHF 180.-
telc Deutsch A2 CHF 200.-
telc Deutsch A2 (only oral exam) CHF 120.-
telc Deutsch A2-B1 (scaled exam) CHF 270.-
telc Deutsch A2-B1 (Switzerland version) CHF 270.-
telc Deutsch B1 CHF 270.-
telc Deutsch B2 CHF 310.-
telc Deutsch C1 CHF 370.-
telc Deutsch C1 for university CHF 370.-
telc Deutsch C2 CHF 450.-
telc Exam Procedure
- Written part: from 11:30 AM (reading, listening, writing)
- Oral part: between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM (individual or pair exam)
- Results: after 6-8 weeks by mail
- Bring with you: valid ID and exam registration
Regardless of whether the exam fee has been paid, we explicitly point out that you will not be admitted to the exam if you cannot present a valid photo ID on the exam day.
telc Deutsch A1
For beginners. You can introduce yourself, go shopping, ask for directions, and ask simple questions.
- Written: 65 min.
Reading comprehension and writing 45 min
Listening 20 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch A2
You can understand short texts and respond in simple sentences as well as ask questions.
- Written: 70 min
Reading comprehension and writing 50 min
Listening 20 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch A2-B1 Switzerland
This scaled exam is specially developed for Switzerland, as it contains Swiss scenarios and everyday language. It determines whether you are at A2 or B1 level. It’s ideal if you’re between levels.
- Written: 2:05 h
Reading comprehension 45 min
Reading and writing 35 min
Listening and writing 35 min
Writing 10 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch B1
You communicate independently in everyday life, while traveling, and can talk about personal experiences as well as express your opinion.
- Written: 2:30 h
Reading 90 min
Listening 30 min
Writing 30 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch B2
You express yourself clearly and in detail, can argue and negotiate. This is important for demanding professions.
- Written: 2:20 h
Reading comprehension 90 min
Listening 20 min
Writing 30 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch B1-B2 Professional
This exam is specially developed for the job market and covers communication in everyday work life, emails, meetings, and phone calls.
- Written: 2:10 h
Reading comprehension 60 min
Listening 25 min
Writing 45 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch C1
You communicate spontaneously and fluently. You can present your opinion on complex topics logically and in detail. This exam is particularly important for university admission or leadership positions.
- Schriftlich: 3:40 h
Leseverstehen 90 min
Hören 40 min
Pause 20 min
Schreiben 70 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Deutsch C1 for University
This exam is specially developed for students and focuses on academic topics.
- Written: 3:40 h
Reading comprehension 90 min
Listening 40 min
Break 20 min
Writing 70 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc German C2
This is the highest level. You master German almost at native-speaker level
and can express yourself in a differentiated, stylistically confident, and nuanced way on all topics.
- Written: 4:10 h
Reading comprehension 80 min
Listening and writing part 1 60 min
Break 20 min
Writing part 2 90 min - Oral: approx. 15 min + 20 min preparation time
telc Preparation Courses
Our exam preparation courses are your key to success. We provide targeted training for all parts of the exam and familiarize you with the format of the telc examination. That is why 99% of our participants pass their telc exams.
- Reading comprehension & text production
- Listening comprehension with original audio files
- Oral exam (simulation with feedback)
- Time management & exam strategies
Your advantages at Wordculture:
99 out of 100 of our participants pass the telc exam on their first attempt thanks to targeted training courses.
Our recipe for success:
- Targeted learning: We cover all exam-relevant topics
- Practical tips: Strategies for every task type
- Repetition as a principle: Regular mock tests consolidate what you've learned
- All skills: Speaking, listening, reading, and writing
Register now for the telc language exam or book an exam preparation course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the telc certificate recognised in Switzerland?
Yes. The telc certificate is recognized throughout Europe. All Swiss employers, public authorities, and universities accept the telc certificate. However, we recommend checking with the relevant institution in advance to confirm its acceptance.
What's the difference between telc and fide-test?
The fide-test is a scaled exam for A1-A2 or A2-B1 and was developed by the Swiss Migration Office. It is only valid within Switzerland and focuses on everyday situations in Switzerland. The telc certificate, however, is recognised worldwide. It is aligned with the CEFR and covers all language levels from A1 to C2, as well as specific professional topics.
Can I retake only the oral or written part?
Yes, if you fail, you can retake each part separately within 12 months with telc.
How long is a telc certificate valid?
telc certificates are valid for life and recognised worldwide.
Is an exam preparation course really necessary?
Not mandatory, but it is recommended. In an exam preparation course, you’ll become familiar with the exam format and practice all skills, so you’ll feel confident on exam day. Additionally, writing and speaking can be specifically trained in advance.