Why is it important to get Niveau A1 German Certificate?

What is Niveau A1?

Niveau A1 is the beginner level (or so-called breakthrough level) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is the first step in language learning for people with no or very minimal prior knowledge of the language. The focus at this level is on basic communication skills in everyday situations.

To achieve this level, you must show proficiency in understanding simple German words, phrases, and expressions, as well as the ability to introduce yourself and ask basic questions.

For more information refer to description of CEFR requirements to A1 Niveau level for listening, writing, speaking and reading sections (link to article 4)

When is Niveau A1 German Certificate needed?

A1 German Certificate is often needed in different situations, when proof of basic German knowledge is required.

In many cases official recognition of your German language level is crucial, for example during the visa process, residence permit, employment or studying.

There are several examples when German A1 Certificate is needed or even mandatory:

1. Getting a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) in case of having Blue Card and after working in Germany at least 27 months
2. In case of getting special residence permit, which is called “Opportunity card” (Aufenthaltserlaubnis – Chancenkarte) as one of possible options
3. In some cases, German A1 certificate is needed for Family Reunion Visas or spousal reunification from abroad
4. Applying for D-Visa: Au pair. The aim of an Au-Pair stay is to improve German language skills and to broaden general knowledge through experience. Au pairs must have German language skills of at least level A1 as defined by CEFR.
5. Employment – many employers in German-speaking countries prefer candidates with proven language skills and having a language certificate can significantly increase chances of being employed. And also see the next!
6. Career promotion (success) and salary raise - A study by the German Economic Institute shows that foreigners with very good knowledge of German can earn as much as their German colleagues. This underlines the importance of language skills as a very important aspect, which impacts career promotion and high salary.
7. Study Programs - such as Studienkollegs, which are designed to make international students ready for university studies in Germany
8. Travel and cultural Exchange programs – for example taking part in the Southern Cross Cultural Exchange (SCCE), which offers high school exchange programs to Germany, where students are placed in local schools such as Realschule or Gymnasium
9. Austrian Visa applications - Austria also requires A1 German proficiency for certain types of visas, for example when submitting their first application for a residence permit for family reunification or for getting "Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte plus", which is used to settle for a limited period and work throughout Austria

And of course, preparation for taking the exam will significantly improve your knowledge and understanding of German.

This is also very helpful for everyday basic communication in different situations and can be used across a variety of occupations, for example in a shop or when visiting a doctor.

Which institutions provide the opportunity to take the German language exam Niveau A1?

Most popular institutions are the following:

1. Goethe-Institut (goethe.de)

   Popular Exams:

   • Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1: For adults
   • Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Fit in Deutsch 1: For children and teenagers between 10 and 16 years old
2. Telc (telc.net)

   Popular Exam: telc Deutsch A1

3. Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (ÖSD) (osd.at)

   Popular Exam: ÖSD Zertifikat A1

What are the main parts of the exam Goethe A1: Start Deutsch 1?

1. Listening (Hören) – consists of 3 sections with listening tasks. This exam’s part is usually considered to be the most complicated section of the exam
2. Reading (Lesen) - the exam includes 3 sections with reading tasks
3. Writing (Schreiben) - contains 2 major tasks, one of them is writing either formal or informal letter
4. Speaking (Sprechen) - consists of 3 parts, including introduction of yourself, composing and answering questions and asking for a some favour and correspondingly replying

Do you have more questions about the exam or need additional information?

Then follow this link with a description of the Goethe A1 exam’s sections in detail.