TELC Exam Pattern (A1–B2): If you plan to work, study or settle in Germany you must understand the TELC exam pattern. I have seen people accept the TELC exam, across Germany and Europe. I have seen people use the TELC exam, for job applications Ausbildung programs and residence permits.
I write this blog to break down the TELC exam pattern level by level from A1 to B2. I explain the speaking format of the TELC exam pattern. I explain the scoring system of the TELC exam pattern. I share a preparation checklist, for the TELC exam pattern to help you succeed. I have used the preparation checklist myself. It helped me prepare.
🔍 I would like to know what the TELC Exam is.
What is the TELC Exam?
I have used TELC (The European Language Certificates). TELC is the language certification system that matches the CEFR levels (A1–C2).
The focus is heavy, on real-life communication. The focus makes real-life communication among:
Healthcare professionals
Skilled workers
Ausbildung candidates
Job seekers in Germany
📘 TELC Exam Pattern (Level-Wise Overview)
The TELC exam has four modules at every level:
Lesen (Reading)
Hören (Listening)
Schreiben (Writing)
Sprechen (Speaking)
Each level tests more language difficulty. I notice the level gets harder as the level goes on.
Read More: Akkusativ vs Dativ: The Ultimate Guide to Master German Cases
🟢 TELC A1 Exam Pattern
Ideal for: Beginners
Structure:
Reading: Short texts, signs, messages
Listening: Simple conversations
Writing: Short messages or forms
Speaking: Introducing yourself, basic conversations
🕒 Duration: Approx. 65–70 minutes
🔵 TELC A2 Exam Pattern
Ideal for: Everyday communication
Structure:
Reading short articles and ads
Listening to everyday conversations
Writing emails or short notes
Speaking about daily routines and experiences
🕒 Duration: Approx. 90 minutes
🟡 TELC B1 Exam Pattern
Ideal for: Work, Ausbildung & residence permits
Structure:
Reading longer texts
Listening to discussions and announcements
Writing formal and informal texts
Speaking:
Presentation
Discussion
Opinion sharing
🕒 Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours
🔴 TELC B2 Exam Pattern
Ideal for: Professional jobs and higher studies
Structure:
Complex texts and reports
Advanced listening comprehension
Argumentative writing
Structured discussion and debate
🕒 Duration: Approx. 3 hours
🗣️ TELC Speaking Format (Important!)
In my experience the TELC speaking usually works in pairs. The TELC speaking does not work alone.
You will:
Introduce yourself
Discuss a topic
Exchange opinions
Reach a conclusion together
👉 I see the format test real life communication. I see the format does not test memorisation.
📊 TELC Scoring System
I score each module separately. That lets me compare each module with the others.
To pass you need the required score. The minimum required score is what lets you pass.
✔ Speaking + Writing
✔. Listening
Balanced performance is key.
🧠 TELC Exam Preparation Checklist
✔ I understand the exam structure.
✔ Practice timed mock tests. I use the practice timed tests to see how fast I can answer.
✔ I improve my listening by listening to life German
✔ I speak every day. Even short conversations help.
✔ Learn connectors: weil, obwohl, deshalb
✔ Receive feedback from trainers
❓ FAQs – TELC Exam Pattern
- What does the TELC exam do?
I needed the TELC exam, for the work permit and for the study permit. I needed the TELC exam for the Ausbildung permit. I needed the TELC exam for the residence permit, in Germany.
- Is TELC easier than Goethe?
I think TELC feels practical and TELC focuses on the communication. I think Goethe feels academic.
- Can I use TELC in Germany?
Yes. I see that TELC is accepted by the employers and the institutions, across Germany.
- I want to know how I need to study for the TELC exam?
From my experience preparation often takes two to six months. Preparation depends on the level.
- Can I study for the TELC online?
Yes, with structured guidance and mock exams, online preparation is effective.
Read More: German Language Training for Overseas Jobs- know Healthcare & Nursing Track
🎓 Why Choose TLS for TELC Exam Preparation?
At The Language Spectrum (TLS) we offer:
✔ Level-wise structured training
✔ Real exam simulations
✔ Speaking-focused sessions
✔ Individual feedback
✔ Online & offline classes
We prepare students not just to pass — but to communicate confidently.
