Exam Fees in India (B2 Level)
- Goethe-Institut: ₹18,000 – ₹22,000 (varies by level and region; advanced levels cost more).
- telc: ₹14,000 – ₹18,000 (slightly lower, depending on center).
- ÖSD: ₹13,000 – ₹21,000 (center and module-based, usually slightly cheaper than Goethe).
Exam Pattern & Structure
Difficulty & Passing Ratio
B2 Certificate Validity
- Goethe, telc, and ÖSD B2 certificates are officially valid for a lifetime—they do not expire.
- However, some universities or employers may ask for a more recent certificate (within 1–2 years), especially for admissions or visa processes. Officially, though, there is no expiration.
Exam Centers in India
- Goethe: Available in major cities: Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, and others.
- telc: Offered in select centers like Coimbatore, Jaipur, Trivandrum, Chandigarh.
- ÖSD: Main exam centers include Bangalore (Deutsch Center), Chandigarh, Coimbatore, and select other cities.
B2 Level Module Rules and Flexibility
- Goethe B2: Four modules—Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking—can be taken and passed separately; each module is valid for 1 year. The final certificate is awarded only when all modules are cleared.
- telc B2: Exam is split into Written and Oral. You cannot retake individual Reading, Writing, Listening, or Speaking modules, but you can retake the Written or Oral section as needed.
- ÖSD B2: Structure similar to Goethe. Four modules, can be attempted and passed separately. Each module is valid for 1 year; certificate awarded upon clearing all modules.
Quick Summary Table
| Certificate | Fees (India) | Exam Pattern | Passing Rate | Module Flexibility | Validity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goethe | ₹18k–₹22k | 4 modules, flexible | 55–65% | Very flexible | Lifetime | Study visa, global jobs |
| telc | ₹14k–₹18k | 2 blocks | 70–80% | Limited | Lifetime | Apprenticeship, healthcare |
| ÖSD | ₹13k–₹21k | 4 modules, flexible | 65–75% | Flexible | Lifetime | Jobs, Austria+Germany |
Personal Recommendation
- Goethe: Most academically rigorous and globally accepted; best for university admissions and long-term career.
- telc: Practical and easier; ideal for technical, healthcare, or apprenticeship (Ausbildung) candidates.
- ÖSD: Easier than Goethe, recognized in Austria and Germany, good choice if your local center offers it.
All three certifications open doors to work and study in Germany; choice depends on your career path, time, and exam preferences