The Goethe Certificate A1: Start Deutsch 1 presupposes very basic language skills. The examination corresponds to the first level (A1) of the six-level competence scale of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. For instance, after passing the examination, you can understand very short and simple questions, instructions, and messages in everyday situations, as well as answering machine messages, public announcements, and have short conversations. You can gather relevant information for you through short written messages, public notices, and ads, name and understand numbers, quantities, times, and prices. You are able to fill out forms related to simple and personal information, write short personal messages, introduce yourself in conversation and answer simple questions about yourself. Furthermore you can formulate and address common questions and concerns in everyday life.

Exam Guidelines (in German and English):

https://goetheslz.com/wp-content/uploads/Pruefungsordnung%EF%BC%88Stand-01092025.pdf

Terms and Conditions for Exam Administration: GOETHE-ZERTIFIKAT A1: https://goetheslz.com/wp-content/uploads/DFB-2025-Start-Deutsch-1_Englisch.pdf

Supplement to the Terms and Conditions for Exam Administration: Exam Participants with Special Needs: https://goetheslz.com/wp-content/uploads/Ergaenzungen-DFB-TN-spezifischer-Bedarf-2025_Englisch-1.pdf

Data Protection Declaration for Participants in Exams of Goethe-Institute at Exam Cooperation Partners: https://goetheslz.com/wp-content/uploads/Datenschutzhinweise-PKP_Englisch.pdf

Practice Materials: https://www.goethe.de/ins/de/en/prf/prf/gzsd1/ueb.html