What is Telc? Information you need to know about the TELC German exam

Are you looking for a German language certificate to prepare for your vocational study abroad journey in Germany? What is TELC? and why is this certificate chosen by many young people? The article below is from SHD Academy will answer your questions about the test structure, grading scale and everything you need to know about the TELC exam. If you are planning to make your “German dream” come true, don’t miss this important information!

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What is TELC? 

What is TELC?? This is the abbreviation of The European Language Certificates – a foreign language certification system developed in Germany, following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). TELC is an internationally recognized certificate, widely recognized in Europe, especially in the fields of academics, careers and immigration.

Unlike many other language testing systems, TELC clearly divides levels from A1 to C2, corresponding to language usage levels from basic to proficient. The test structure consists of two main parts: writing and speaking. In which, the writing part integrates three skills: listening - reading - writing.

TELC's unique feature is its global coverage, with more than 2,000 licensed test-organizing units in more than 20 countries. In addition, TELC does not only stop at organizing tests, but also plays an active role in training teaching staff, developing teaching programs and providing professional support to foreign language centers.

Who is the TELC German language certificate suitable for?

TELC certificate is suitable for many different subjects, depending on the purpose of studying, working or settling in Germany. Specifically:

• International students: With the German vocational study abroad program (Ausbildung) – especially in areas such as nursing, restaurant - hotel, engineering,… candidates are usually required to have German language proficiency at level B1 or B2, depending on the field of study and the requirements of the training school or receiving enterprise. For university programs, international students need to achieve a TELC certificate at level B2 or C2 to meet the school's entry requirements.
• People working in the medical and health care industry: Doctors, nurses and medical professionals – especially foreigners – are often required to demonstrate their German language proficiency through the TELC Deutsch Medizin or TELC Pflege exam.
• German settlers or naturalized citizens: People who are in the process of applying for a settlement visa, extending their residence or entering German nationality A TELC certificate at level A1 or B1 is usually required, depending on German government regulations.
• German language learners: TELC is also suitable for those who are learning German with the aim of using it in a professional working environment, helping them to communicate more effectively and confidently.

With its flexibility and high reliability, TELC becomes the optimal choice for anyone aiming to study, work or settle permanently in Germany.

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Advantages of TELC over other certificates

TELC stands out thanks to its friendly, flexible exam structure and its suitability for many German language use purposes. Compared to other certificates, TELC offers many clear advantages in terms of structure, exam format and practical application. Below are the strengths that make TELC the top choice for German language learners today:

• Friendly test structure – no failing marks for each skill: The Reading, Listening, Writing and Grammar sections are integrated into a single written test, allowing candidates to make up points between skills.
• Test all skills in one session: Reduces psychological pressure and saves time, especially suitable for working people or students with busy schedules.
• Modern digital exam organization: The online exam format is flexible, the process is faster and more convenient than many other traditional language certificates.
• Diverse and flexible level range: TELC ranges from A1 to C2, including specialized certificates for specific purposes such as doctors (TELC Medizin), nurses (TELC Pflege), and business German learners (TELC Beruf).
• Comprehensive certification of 4 skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing Assessment – fully reflects real-life abilities.
• International recognition: Widely accepted in Germany and Europe, by many schools and government agencies.

• Clear and transparent scoring scale: According to CEFR standards (A1–C2), easy to understand and easy to identify the level.

• Reasonable cost: Usually lower than TestDaF or DSH, suitable for many students.

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TELC exam structure

The TELC German language certificate exam is designed to comprehensively assess the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, corresponding to the requirements of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The test structure is standardized, ensuring accuracy in classifying learners' abilities.

• Listening (Hörverstehen): Tests the ability to understand listening content in real-life situations such as dialogues, speeches, and announcements, helping to assess the ability to receive information quickly and accurately.
• Read (Leseverstehen): Assesses the ability to understand German texts in various formats such as letters, emails, forms, or short articles.
• Writing (Schriftlicher Ausdruck): Tests essay, letter or report writing skills, requiring clear, logical presentation and grammatical accuracy.
• Speaking (Speaking): Chat and converse directly with your exam partner, test your ability to communicate, debate, and handle real-life situations.

Information about exam time

The exam time to get the TELC certificate is divided into 2 parts (speaking and writing), the time difference depends on the German level you want to achieve, specifically:

Source: SHD Academy 

TELC exam levels

TELC organizes exams at many different levels, from basic to advanced, suitable for each learner's goals.

Level A1 – A2

• Suitable for beginners of German or for basic use.
• Assesses the ability to introduce oneself and ask and answer simple questions about everyday life.

Level B1 – B2

• For learners who have a foundation in German and can communicate in study, work and life environments.
• TELC B1 is often used for the purpose of applying for German citizenship or vocational training, while TELC B2 is required when applying for university preparatory programs (Studienkolleg) or specialized professions.

Level C1 – C2

• For advanced learners who need to use German in a specific academic or professional context.
• Level C1 is commonly used for applying to universities in Germany.

TELC assessment scale and criteria

The TELC exam uses a separate scoring system for each skill. Candidates must achieve a minimum total score of 60% to be awarded a certificate.

• Total score: Usually ranges from 300 to 400 points, depending on the level.
• Listening and Reading: Accounts for about 50% total points.
• Write: Assess the ability to present ideas coherently, clearly, and accurately.
• Speak: Test the ability to react, communicate ideas, and handle direct situations.

Specific criteria for the Writing and Speaking sections include:

• Grammar and vocabulary: Use accurately and diversely.
• Coherence: Clear and reasonable layout.
• Practicality: The content is appropriate to the situation and real German language environment.

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Some frequently asked questions about the TELC exam

How long is a TELC valid for?

TELC certificates do not have an official expiry date and are valid indefinitely. However, some recipients such as schools or employers may require the certificate to be issued within the last 2-3 years to ensure the language proficiency is up to date.

How are TELC and Goethe diplomas different?

The difference between Goethe and What is TELC?? Both are widely recognized international German language certificates, but Goethe is issued by the Goethe Institute and is academically oriented, while TELC is developed by TELC GmbH and is highly applicable in work, settlement and practical communication. Depending on your study or career goals, you can choose the appropriate certificate.

How much does the TELC exam cost?

The average TELC exam fee is about 6,500,000 VND, this fee applies to the following exam formats: all 4 skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing), 3 skills (Listening, Reading, Writing), or only Speaking skill. The specific fee may vary depending on the organizing center.

How long does it take to get TELC test results?

TELC exam results will be released within 8 – 10 weeks from the final exam date, depending on the processing speed of TELC gGmbH. Once the results are available, candidates will receive notification via their registered email.

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>>> If you are looking for a German language center or are looking for a reputable TELC certificate exam organization, please refer to SHD Education - a German language teaching center in the SHD ecosystem. 

SHD Education – Prestigious and quality German language teaching center

With nearly 7 years of operation, SHD Education is proud to have successfully supported more than 3900 students to achieve their desired German language certificate goals. When accompanying the center TELC exam preparation At SHD Education, students will receive absolute peace of mind on their journey to conquer German thanks to the following outstanding advantages:

• Lean and effective roadmap: Students are supported with free entrance tests, from which they can build a learning path that suits their abilities. With intensive and semi-intensive courses, students can achieve TELC B1 certification in just 9 months, saving time while still ensuring quality.
• Netzwerk New international standard curriculum: The Netzwerk New curriculum offers a wide range of topics, from everyday life to professional fields, helping students easily approach and conquer the TELC certificate according to their personal goals.
• Personalized Learning: Focus on exploiting the needs and receptive abilities of each student, ensuring that each person has access to content appropriate to their level.
• Experienced teaching staff: Students interact directly with Vietnamese teachers and native teachers with more than 30 years of teaching experience, ensuring exam preparation and TELC certification according to the goals set by students.

At the same time, from March 18, 2025, SHD Education is a licensed unit to organize the TELC exam in Vietnam according to Decision No. 714/QD-BGDDT issued by the Ministry of Education and Training. Becoming a pioneer in Ho Chi Minh City in organizing the TELC exam not only demonstrates SHD Education's commitment to quality, students can study and take the exam right at the center, helping to save time and cost effectively.

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Hope through this article, you have understood clearly. What is TELC?, test structure, levels, scoring scales as well as outstanding advantages compared to other German certificates. With high applicability, international reliability and long-term usability, TELC is becoming the top choice for those who aim to work, vocational training in Germany or settle in Germany. If you are looking for a reputable German training center, please contact SHD Education immediately via the website: https://shdeducation.vn/ or hotline: (+84-28) 6276 0276 for detailed advice and support!