DTZ B1 exam by G.A.S.T. and Telc 2025

What is g.a.s.t.?

The Society for Academic Study Preparation and Test Development (g.a.s.t.) is a German organization specializing in the development and administration of language proficiency tests. g.a.s.t. is particularly known for the TestDaF, which certifies German language skills at levels B2/C1 for academic purposes, and the Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer (DTZ), which is used in integration courses. The focus of g.a.s.t. lies on examinations designed either for academic purposes or for the integration of migrants in Germany. The organization closely cooperates with universities and language schools to offer high-quality exams. Its goal is to provide participants with access to higher education or to support successful integration in Germany.

What is telc?

telc (The European Language Certificates) is an organization that offers a wide range of language exams for different levels (from A1 to C2) and target groups. telc exams are internationally recognized and include both general language tests and exams tailored to professional and integration-related contexts. Of particular importance are exams such as telc Deutsch B1, which serve as general proof of language competence, and job-oriented formats like telc Deutsch B1+ Beruf. telc is known for its wide applicability, as its exams are accepted not only in Germany but also worldwide. Its target groups include people learning German for work, study, or everyday communication.

Exam structure

The structure of g.a.s.t. and telc exams differs in their objectives and level of complexity:

• DTZ (g.a.s.t.): The exam consists of four parts: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. Reading and listening are assessed together, emphasizing comprehension of essential content. The exam is scaled, meaning participants can achieve results at either A2 or B1 level.
• telc Deutsch B1: This exam also includes reading, listening, writing, and speaking, but these components are evaluated separately. The requirements are higher since it exclusively tests the B1 level and covers a wider range of topics and task formats.

While the DTZ focuses primarily on everyday integration, telc Deutsch B1 targets broader applications, such as work or international recognition.

Reading tasks

Reading tasks in both exams are a key component used to assess participants’ text comprehension:

• DTZ: The reading tasks focus on everyday texts such as advertisements, letters, or forms. The questions are straightforward and typically use matching or multiple-choice formats.
• telc Deutsch B1: This exam includes longer and more varied texts, such as newspaper articles, advertisements, or reports. The questions require more detailed analysis and may also involve open-ended answers.

The main difference lies in the complexity of the texts and tasks: telc requires more strategic reading, while the DTZ focuses more on practical, everyday texts.

Listening tasks

Listening tasks in both exams assess comprehension of spoken language in different contexts:

• DTZ: The listening texts are short and based on typical everyday situations such as announcements, brief conversations, or simple interviews. The tasks are direct and focus on identifying key information.
• telc Deutsch B1: The listening texts are longer and cover a broader range of topics, such as discussions, lectures, or interviews. The questions require deeper understanding and the ability to identify details.

While the DTZ focuses on understanding essential everyday content, telc Deutsch B1 requires a broader listening comprehension and the ability to process more complex information.

Writing tasks

Writing tasks test the ability to produce structured and content-appropriate texts:

• DTZ: The task usually consists of writing a simple letter or short note, for example, to make an appointment or an inquiry. The requirements are adapted to the A2 and B1 levels.
• telc Deutsch B1: This exam requires structured texts such as complaint letters, inquiries, or personal statements. The tasks demand clearer argumentation and more precise expression.

The writing tasks in telc are more demanding and require greater linguistic accuracy and textual organization than those in the DTZ.

Speaking tasks

The oral exam evaluates participants’ communication skills:

• DTZ: The tasks include self-introduction and free speaking about everyday topics such as shopping or traveling. The requirements are adapted to A2 and B1 levels.
• telc Deutsch B1: The oral exam consists of dialogues and monologues on specific topics. Participants must be able to express opinions, argue, and respond to questions.

While the DTZ focuses on everyday communication, telc Deutsch B1 requires broader and more in-depth language use.

Differences and similarities in tasks

Both exams cover the core competencies of reading, listening, writing, and speaking and are based on everyday topics. However, differences exist in terms of objectives and complexity:

• The DTZ focuses more on integration and practical language use in everyday life in Germany. The tasks are simpler and more practice-oriented.
• telc Deutsch B1 is more challenging and covers a wider range of topics extending beyond everyday life.

The similarities allow some overlap in preparation, but specific exercises for each exam are still necessary.

Can DTZ exercises be used to prepare for telc Deutsch B1?

DTZ exercises can be a good foundation for telc Deutsch B1, especially for developing basic language skills. However, telc tasks are more complex and require focused training in text analysis, structured writing, and detailed listening comprehension. Conversely, telc exercises may represent over-preparation for the DTZ.

Conclusion

Both exams have their specific target groups and requirements. The DTZ is ideal for migrants who wish to demonstrate basic language skills for integration and everyday life in Germany. telc Deutsch B1, on the other hand, is internationally recognized and offers a more comprehensive exam suitable for professional or academic purposes. The choice of exam should depend on individual goals and the required proof of language proficiency.