A comprehensive beginner's guide to passing the Start Deutsch 1 (A1) exam. Learn about the structure of the exam and how to prepare for each section efficiently with the detailed grading table.
How to pass the A1 German language exam successfully the first time
It is considered a certificateStart Deutsch 1 (A1)A basic requirement for family reunification visas or proof of basic knowledge of the German language for work and study. Fortunately, this test is very simplified and focuses on repetitive, everyday vocabulary and expressions. In this guide, we will reveal to you the structure of the exam and how to pass it with distinction.
💡 The basic idea of A1:The test measures your ability to understand basic everyday situations (such as introducing yourself, shopping, asking directions, and filling out simple personal information forms).
The four A1 exam sections in detail
The exam is divided into two main parts: written and oral.
For official approved training, seeStart Deutsch 1 exam page on the Goethe-Institut website.
1. Listening (Hören) - 20 minutes
Contains 3 parts. You'll hear train station and airport announcements and short daily dialogues. Remember that some audio clips are repeated twice, while others are played only once.
2. Reading (Lesen) - 25 minutes
It contains personalized emails, banner ads, and streamlined websites. Read the questions carefully first, then search for key words in the text being read.
3. Writing (Schreiben) - 20 minutes
It is divided into two parts:
- Part One (fill out a form):Filling out data on a hotel or flight reservation form for someone else based on a given text (5 marks).
- Part Two (Writing a Letter):Writing an email or short message of approximately 30 words inviting a friend or apologizing for a date (10 marks).
4. Conversation (Sprechen) - 15 minutes
It is done in a small group (usually 4 people) and is divided into 3 parts:
- Part One (introducing oneself):Talk about name, age, country, place of residence, languages, profession, and hobbies based on a prompt.
- Part Two (Question and Answer):Pull out a card with a word on it (such as Auto), formulate a question for your partner, and then answer their question.
- Part Three (Request and Hope):Draw a card with a picture (e.g. a glass of water) and formulate a polite request using a command or request (e.g.There's a lot of space in this room.).
Distribution of A1 exam grades
| Section |
Original degree |
Relative weight of the degree |
Final score |
| Listening (Hören) |
15 degrees |
times 1.66 |
25 points |
| Reading |
15 degrees |
times 1.66 |
25 points |
| Writing |
15 degrees |
times 1.66 |
25 points |
| Conversation |
15 degrees |
times 1.66 |
25 points |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the overall passing score on the A1 exam?
The minimum passing score is 60 out of 100 in the sum of the four sections combined (written and oral exam).
Is it required to pass each section separately in A1?
No, unlike the advanced exams, each section is not required to be passed independently at A1; As long as your total score at the end exceeds 60, you are considered successful.
How do I practice writing the letter in A1?
Memorize the formal and personal templates for greetings and farewells (such as: Liebe/Lieber... or Sehr geehrte...), and be sure to answer the three points required in the question clearly and concisely.
Does Deutsch mit Vienix help prepare for A1?
Yes, the application includes complete A1 word packs, a simulation section for self-introduction, question formulation and artificial intelligence guidance to fully prepare you for the exam.
Recommended sources and references
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