Passing the DTZ Exam: Your Step-by-Step Guide

You are taking an integration course in Germany. The DTZ exam – the German Test for Immigrants – is coming soon. You don’t know exactly what to expect? Don’t worry. In this article, we explain everything: the structure of the exam, typical tasks, and the best tips for preparation.

The DTZ is no reason to panic. With the right preparation, you can pass it well. Start now – and you will feel confident on exam day.

What is the DTZ?

The German Test for Immigrants (DTZ) is the official final exam of the integration course in Germany. It is recognized by the BAMF (Federal Office for Migration and Refugees) and developed by g.a.s.t.

With the DTZ you can get two certificates:

Certificate A2 – if you score 60–72 points
Certificate B1 – if you score 73–100 points

The B1 certificate is needed for many important things: for the settlement permit, naturalization, and better job opportunities.

How is the DTZ structured?

The exam has four parts:

1. Listening (25 minutes)

You listen to various texts and answer questions. There are four parts:

Part 1: Telephone announcements and messages – 4 multiple-choice tasks
Part 2: Short information in the media – 5 multiple-choice tasks
Part 3: Everyday conversations – 4 true/false + 4 multiple-choice
Part 4: Different opinions – 3 matching tasks

2. Reading (45 minutes)

You read various texts: ads, letters, articles. There are five parts:

Part 1: Understanding catalogs and directories
Part 2: Finding information in ads
Part 3: Understanding opinions in newspaper texts
Part 4: Reading informational brochures
Part 5: Completing words in a letter

3. Writing (30 minutes)

You write a letter or an email. The topic comes from everyday life: for example, a rejection, an inquiry, or a complaint. You get 4 guiding points that you must address all.

4. Speaking (approx. 16 minutes per pair)

The oral exam has three parts:

Part 1: Talking about yourself
Part 2: Talking about experiences (with picture)
Part 3: Planning something together

⚠️ Important: If you stay below A2 in speaking, you will not receive a certificate – even if all other parts are good. The speaking part is the most critical part of the exam!

Sample tasks from the DTZ exam

Listening – Example (Part 1)

You hear a message on the phone. Choose the correct answer.

“The practice Dr. Müller is open today from 8 to 12 o’clock. For emergencies please call 0800-112."

Question: When is the practice open today?

a) All day
b) Only in the morning ✓
c) Only in the afternoon

Reading – Example (Part 5)

Complete the correct word in the letter.

“Dear Sir or Madam, I would like to apologize to you ______ my delayed response."

a) for ✓
b) with
c) from

Speaking – Example (Part 3)

Task: Plan a small party for colleagues with your partner.

Guiding points: Where? / When? / What to eat and drink? / Who brings what?

Useful phrases:

“I suggest …" | “What do you think?" | “Agreed." | “Maybe we could …"

How to prepare: 6 tips

Practice every day – even just 20 minutes.
Memorize the exam structure.
Listen to German daily: radio, podcasts, simple YouTube videos.
Write short texts and ask someone to correct them – or use an AI platform.
Speak out loud – even alone.
Do practice sets like in the real exam – with a time limit.

Common mistakes in the DTZ exam

Too little time for the writing part
Not addressing all guiding points
Answering too briefly in speaking
Not paying attention to time
Underestimating the speaking part

Your preparation plan – step by step

Weeks 1–2: Get to know the exam structure.
Weeks 3–4: Focus on listening and reading.
Weeks 5–6: Practice writing.
Weeks 7–8: Practice speaking.
1 week before the exam: Review everything.

Useful phrases for the exam

“I’m not sure, but I think …"
“Could you please repeat that?"
“I suggest that we …"
“In my opinion …"
“I think that’s good/not so good because …"
“Dear Sir or Madam, …"
“With kind regards, …"

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many points do I need for the B1 certificate?

You need at least 73 out of 100 points. For A2, 60 points are enough.

How long is the DTZ certificate valid?

The certificate has no expiration date. It is valid forever.

Can I retake the DTZ if I don’t pass?

Yes. You can retake the exam. Your course provider can tell you how it works.

What happens if I only fail the speaking part?

If you stay below A2 in speaking, you will not receive a certificate – regardless of your other scores.

Where can I find official practice materials?

Free practice sets are available on the official website of g.a.s.t. at gast.de/dtz.

Conclusion

The DTZ is not an impossible test. With a clear plan, regular practice, and the right materials, you can pass it well. The most important thing: start early and practice all four parts – especially speaking.

You have the strength to do it. Good luck! 💪

👉 Do you want to pass the exam confidently?

On deutsch-meister-app.com you will find real DTZ practice tasks for all four modules – with AI feedback for your letters, step-by-step explanations, and a training plan that suits you.