TELC B1 Exam Day — What to Expect and How to Stay Calm
What Happens on Exam Day
The TELC B1 exam is split into two separate parts: a written exam (about 2.5 hours) and an oral exam (about 15 minutes plus 20 minutes preparation). Depending on your test center, both parts may happen on the same day or on different days.
Written Exam Schedule
The written portion follows a fixed order:
- Reading + Language Elements — 90 minutes (combined, no break between them)
- Short break — usually 10–15 minutes
- Listening Comprehension — about 30 minutes (audio controls the pace)
- Written Expression — 30 minutes
You cannot go back to a previous section once time is up.
Oral Exam Format
The speaking test is done in pairs with another candidate. You will:
- Introduce yourself briefly
- Have a conversation about a given topic with your partner
- Plan something together (e.g., organize an event)
You get 20 minutes of preparation time before the speaking test begins. During this time, you will receive the topics for all three speaking parts. You can take notes and prepare your ideas, but you are not allowed to speak with your partner during preparation.
If your partner does not show up on exam day, you will complete the speaking test with one of the examiners instead.
What to Bring
- Valid photo ID (passport or national ID card)
- Confirmation letter from your test center
- Pens and/or pencils — some test centers require blue or black pens, others require pencils for the answer sheet. Check with your test center beforehand
- A quiet analog watch (phones and smartwatches are not allowed)
- Water bottle (without labels, if your test center requires it)
Do not bring: mobile phones (turn them off and leave them in your bag), dictionaries, notes, or any electronic devices.
The 60% Rule — Use It Strategically
To pass the TELC B1 exam, you need 60% in both the written and oral parts separately. That means:
- Written: at least 135 out of 225 points
- Oral: at least 45 out of 75 points
This has an important implication: you do not need to be perfect. If one section is weaker, you can make up for it with stronger performance in another section of the same part (written or oral).
Where the Points Come From
| Section | Max. Points | You need (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 75 | ~45 |
| Language Elements | 30 | ~18 |
| Listening Comprehension | 75 | ~45 |
| Written Expression | 45 | ~27 |
| Written Total | 225 | 135 |
| Speaking | 75 | 45 |
Focus your study energy on the sections where you can gain points most easily.
Five Mistakes That Cost the Most Points
1. Skipping Guiding Points in the Writing Section
The Written Expression section gives you four guiding points (Leitpunkte). Each one must be addressed in your letter or email. Missing even one point can cost you up to 10 points. Always count your points before finishing.
2. Leaving Answers Blank
Every unanswered question is a guaranteed zero. If you are unsure, make your best guess — especially in multiple choice and true/false sections where you have a reasonable chance of guessing correctly.
3. Spending Too Long on One Question
The Reading + Language Elements block gives you 90 minutes for five sub-sections. If you spend 25 minutes on Part 1, you will run out of time for Part 3 and Language Elements. Move on and come back if time allows.
4. Not Reading Questions Before the Listening Audio
In the Listening section, you have a short pause before each part. Use this time to read the questions. If you wait until the audio starts, you will be trying to read and listen at the same time — and miss key information.
5. Being Silent During the Speaking Test
The examiners cannot give you points if you do not speak. Even if your grammar is imperfect, active participation and clear communication are rewarded. Ask your partner questions, respond to their ideas, and keep the conversation going.
Staying Calm Under Pressure
Before the Exam
- Get a full night of sleep — last-minute cramming the night before rarely helps
- Eat a proper breakfast with slow-release energy (whole grains, fruit, protein)
- Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early
During the Exam
- If you feel stuck, take three slow breaths and move to the next question
- Do not compare your progress with other candidates in the room
- Trust your preparation — you know more than you think under pressure
Between Written and Oral Parts
- Do not replay the written exam in your head — it is done
- Review your speaking preparation notes if your oral exam is on the same day
- Stay hydrated and eat a light snack
After the Exam
Results typically arrive within 6–8 weeks by post. If you pass, you receive the TELC B1 certificate, which is recognized throughout Germany for citizenship applications, university admission, and professional purposes.
If you do not pass one part (written or oral), you can retake only that part within one year without repeating the entire exam.
Ready to Practice?
Put what you have learned into action. Our free TELC B1 practice exams simulate the real test with timed sections, instant scoring, and detailed feedback. Start a practice exam now.