DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer) — Complete Prep Hub
Quick Navigation
This guide covers everything you need to know:
1. Exam Structure & Scoring
DTZ is a dual-level exam in one sitting: your certificate reports A2 or B1 competence levels per assessed block (not a single percentage). Many candidates take it at the end of a BAMF integration course; booking is usually through your Kursanbieter or a telc centre.
| Teil | Zeit (ca.) | Inhalt |
|---|---|---|
| Hören | ~25 min | 20 listening items; grouped with Lesen for one receptive certificate grade |
| Lesen | 45 min | 25 reading items across five tasks (includes grammar-in-context completion) |
| Schreiben | 30 min | One guided writing task |
| Sprechen | ~15 min | Paired oral exam — three task types |
Overall B1 on the certificate normally requires B1 in speaking plus B1 in at least one written block (either the combined Hören/Lesen paper or Schreiben). Confirm cut-offs with your provider using the current telc/BAMF handbook.
2. Preparation Timeline
How long you need depends on your starting level:
- Complete beginners (A0): 36–52 weeks including integration course hours
- A1: 24–36 weeks to exam readiness
- A2: 8–16 weeks focused on exam format
- Near B1: 4–8 weeks of timed mocks and writing
3. Vocabulary & High-Frequency Words
DTZ expects general-language competence (Allgemeinsprache) in Germany: work, housing, health, administration, and daily life. Pair thematic lists with exam-format reading and listening.
- Work, training, and job search (Bewerbung, Arbeitsamt)
- Housing, neighbours, and official letters
- Health, doctor visits, and insurance basics
- School, childcare, and family in Germany
- Transport, appointments, and public services
- Polite requests, complaints, and short messages
4. Speaking Section Tips
Sprechen tests interaction and clear delivery in everyday situations. Typical focus areas:
- Information exchange: Answering examiner questions about yourself and plans
- Situational tasks: Short role-plays (e.g. appointment, request, apology)
5. Writing Section Tips
Schreiben rewards clear structure and correct register (du/Sie, letter/email format). Avoid:
- Ignoring word limits or required text type (E-Mail vs. Kurznachricht)
- Weak connectors — use weil, deshalb, trotzdem, zuerst, danach
- Case errors after prepositions (mit dem, für die)
- Informal slang in official contexts
6. Listening Section Tips
Hören uses standard German audio (not regional dialect). Train:
- Numbers, dates, prices, and times in announcements
- Who does what in dialogues (names, roles, intentions)
- Public messages (Bahnhof, Arzt, Behörde)
- Second listening: confirm your first answer, do not overthink
7. Exam Day Countdown
What to do in the final weeks:
- 2 weeks before: Two full timed papers; fix weak skills (often Hören or Lesen within the receptive pair)
- 1 week before: Review error log, rehearse oral prompts out loud
- Evening before: Light review only; sleep > cramming
- Exam day: Passport/ID, registration confirmation, arrive early
8. Mock Tests & Practice
Full mocks show whether you are closer to A2 or B1 and where time is tight.
- Official timing split: 100-minute written paper plus paired speaking
- AI feedback on writing and speaking where enabled
- Skill-level feedback that mirrors profile reporting (receptive vs productive)
Take at least one full mock test every week in your final 4 weeks of preparation.
FAQ
- Is DTZ only for citizenship?
- No. It is widely used to prove German after integration courses and for several residence pathways. Requirements depend on your status — check with your Ausländerbehörde or lawyer.
- Does DTZ give A2 or B1?
- One exam sitting yields level profiles (usually A2 or B1 per block). Outcomes follow telc rules combining receptive listening/reading with separate writing and speaking ratings.
- Where do I register?
- Often via your integration course provider or directly at a telc-licensed test centre in Germany. Prep2go does not register you for the live exam.
- How much does Prep2go cost?
- One-time plans: 3 months $100, 6 months $170, 12 months $300 (most popular), Lifetime $500. All exams included. On the web, use the free tier first (no card), then subscribe — paid plans bill at checkout (no subscription free trial).
Sources: