Goethe-Institut German examinations at Manchester

The University of Manchester is a Goethe Test Centre affiliated with Goethe-Institut London.

Goethe-Institut certificates are internationally recognised qualifications that demonstrate German language proficiency.

Examinations are open to University of Manchester students and staff, as well as members of the public. You do not need to have completed a German course at the University Language Centre to register.

Upcoming examinations and booking

Goethe-Institut UK publishes examination dates, available levels, and booking arrangements. Exams in Manchester will appear in the Goethe-Institut booking system when they are confirmed.

Who can take a Goethe examination? 

Goethe-Institut examinations are available to anyone who wishes to demonstrate knowledge of German as a second or foreign language, regardless of citizenship.

The Goethe-Institut recommends minimum ages for particular examinations, including separate recommendations for adult and young learner examinations.

Why take a German examination?

A Goethe-Institut certificate can help you to:

  • demonstrate your German language achievement with an internationally recognised qualification;
  • evidence your language skills on your CV and to potential employers;
  • meet language requirements for living, studying or working in a German-speaking country;
  • support an application where formal proof of German is required;
  • measure your progress against the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR);
  • gain confidence and a clear goal for your German language learning.

Examination levels

Goethe-Institut examinations cover CEFR levels A1 to C2. The levels available in Manchester will depend on the examination dates and levels confirmed by Goethe-Institut London.

CEFR level General description Goethe certificate
A1-A2 Basic user Goethe-Zertifikat A1 or A2
B1-B2 Independent user Goethe-Zertifikat B1 or B2
C1-C2 Proficient user Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or C2

What does a Goethe examination involve?

The format varies by level. Goethe examinations assess four key language skills:

  • listening
  • reading
  • writing
  • speaking

At modular levels, candidates may be able to take individual modules. The precise format, duration, and booking options for each level are available on the relevant Goethe-Institut examination page.

Examination fees

Fees vary by examination level, the modules selected, and the booking arrangements.

Please use the Goethe-Institut UK booking pages for the current price when registration opens.

How to prepare

The Goethe-Institut provides free practice materials and sample examinations. Candidates are strongly advised to become familiar with the examination format, question types, timings and assessment requirements before the examination date.

University of Manchester language courses can support the development of German language skills, but taking a University course is not required to register for a Goethe examination.

Accessibility and reasonable adjustments

The Goethe-Institut makes provision for candidates with specific requirements. The nature of the required adjustment must be disclosed during registration and may need to be supported by medical documentation. Information is treated confidentially.

Venue

The University of Manchester
Samuel Alexander Building
Oxford Road
Manchester
M13 9PL

Confirmed candidates will receive detailed arrival, room and timetable information before the examination.

Further information and contact

For examination dates, levels, booking, fees, regulations and official preparation materials, please consult the Goethe-Institut UK website.

For Manchester-specific enquiries, please contact: