LEARN ABOUT ÖSD GERMAN CERTIFICATE

If you’re unsure about which German certification to pursue and are looking for an alternative to well-known certificates like Goethe or TestDaF, then the ÖSD certificate is an ideal choice. This is a prestigious international certification that many people opt for to validate their German language proficiency. Let’s dive into the details of the ÖSD German certificate with New Life in today’s post!

I. What is the ÖSD German Certificate?

Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (ÖSD) is a German language proficiency testing system, officially recognized by the German government. It is aimed at those who use German as a second or foreign language. The ÖSD exam focuses on practical communication, assessing candidates’ language skills through everyday situations.

In 1998, the ÖSD was awarded the “European Label for Innovative Projects in Language Learning and Teaching” by the European Commission, highlighting its reputation and prestige. Today, over 100,000 candidates worldwide take the ÖSD exam annually at more than 400 licensed centers. ÖSD exams not only adhere to international standards but are also globally recognized, allowing learners to use this certification to demonstrate their German language proficiency.

A unique feature of the ÖSD certificate is that it is independent of any German language courses and is organized and assessed based on standardized criteria. Additionally, ÖSD offers special exams for immigrants in Austria, catering to their specific language needs.

II. What Knowledge and Skills Are Assessed in the ÖSD German Exam?

ÖSD exams are internationally recognized, ranging from level A1 to C2, and follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Since 2019, exams have been made more flexible, allowing candidates to choose whether to take individual modules or combine them, except for the ÖSD Integrated Exams.

The ÖSD exam consists of two main modules:

• Written Test: Includes Reading, Listening, and Writing skills.
• Oral Test: Assesses Speaking skills.

Candidates can opt to take each module separately or combine skills. For exams such as the ÖSD Zertifikat B1 and ÖSD Zertifikat C2, all four skills (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking) are tested, and candidates can choose to complete them individually or in combination, depending on their preferences.

III. ÖSD German Certificate Levels

Supported by the Austrian government, the ÖSD German certificate is widely recognized globally for German language exams like DaF, with over 380 examination centers in 30 countries.

ÖSD German Certificate A1

Ability to communicate basic information in simple, familiar everyday situations. This certificate is accepted as proof of German language skills when applying for residence permits for family members, according to Austrian residency regulations.

ÖSD German Certificate A2

Ability to communicate easily in everyday and work-related situations. The focus is on direct exchange of information about common, familiar topics. This certificate is recognized as proof of language skills in the Austrian integration agreement.

ÖSD German Certificate B1

Ability to use the language independently in everyday situations and in professional communication at work. This is a general certificate from ÖSD, the Goethe Institute, WBT, and Freiburg University. It is recognized by employers as sufficient proof of German language skills for job seekers, improving success in the labor market. Accepted as proof of language skills in the integration agreement for applying for permanent residency and Austrian citizenship.

ÖSD German Certificate B1 for Youth

Ability to use the language independently in everyday and professional settings. It is a general certificate from ÖSD, the Goethe Institute, WBT, and Freiburg University. Based on the B1 certificate but specially developed for teenagers aged 12 to 16.

ÖSD German Certificate B2

Recognized in university exams in Germany. Ability to express oneself clearly and in detail on various topics, and to converse naturally and fluently with native speakers. This certificate demonstrates the learner’s language skills in (semi) public situations, professional environments, and educational contexts (schools, universities). Recognized as proof of language skills for admission to some universities in Austria and Germany.

ÖSD German Certificate C1

Recognized in university exams in Germany. Ability to handle more complex situations in everyday life and work. Demonstrates language proficiency with high accuracy and appropriateness to specific contexts. Recognized as proof of language skills for admission to universities in Austria and most universities in Germany.

ÖSD German Certificate C2 – Highest Level, Business German

Knowledge of language and technical terminology in the economic field. Recognized as proof of language skills for admission to universities in Austria and most universities in Germany.

The ÖSD certificate levels include A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2 according to the CEFR. Achieving level B2 or higher is officially recognized as proof of language proficiency, qualifying learners for admission to more than 40 universities in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, thus broadening opportunities for study and work in Europe, particularly in Germany.

IV. How Long Does the ÖSD German Exam Last?

The complete exam lasts about 90 minutes for lower levels and around 210 minutes for the C2 level. Higher-level exams take longer. The Writing module can take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the level, while the Speaking part lasts around 10 to 20 minutes.

V. Exam Fees

Exam fees vary depending on the exam level, the country where the exam is taken, and the testing center. In Vietnam, the costs are as follows:

• ÖSD B1 Certificate:
  • 4 skills: 3,500,000 VND
  • Reading: 800,000 VND
  • Listening: 800,000 VND
  • Writing: 1,000,000 VND
  • Speaking: 900,000 VND
• ÖSD B2 Certificate:
  • 4 skills: 3,800,000 VND
  • Reading + Listening + Writing: 2,850,000 VND
  • Speaking: 950,000 VND

VI. Benefits of the ÖSD German Certificate

Holding an ÖSD certificate provides several advantages:

• Globally recognized German language certification.
• No requirement to complete a full language course before taking the exam.
• Focuses on real-life communication skills.
• Prepares candidates for language use in Austria, Switzerland, and Germany, with consistent recognition in German-speaking countries.
• Organized and assessed according to unified standards.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Where can I take the ÖSD exam in Vietnam? You can take the ÖSD exam at the German Department of Hanoi University or the German Studies Department of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities – Vietnam National University in Ho Chi Minh City.
2. How do I register and when? You must register directly with the chosen exam center for detailed information and registration requirements.
3. What do I need to register for the exam? Valid identification (such as a passport or national ID card) is required for registration.
4. Can I take the exam as a candidate with special needs? Yes, depending on the type and degree of special needs (e.g., reading, writing, visual, or hearing impairments), ÖSD will provide specific accommodations to ensure a fair and accessible exam. For more detailed preparation, many test centers offer preparatory courses, or you can practice at home using available sample tests and study materials.
5. Which exam should I take? Use free online sample tests to determine the level that matches your ability. After registration, the testing center will provide advice and exam preparation guidance. If you need to complete Modules 1 and 2 of the Austrian Integration Agreement, you need to take the special integration exam, which includes language (A2 or B1) and questions related to Austrian values and orientation.
6. How can I prepare for the exam? Many testing centers offer their own preparatory courses, but you can also prepare at home using the following methods:6.1 Practice Tests: Review sample tests to familiarize yourself with the ÖSD exam structure. Search for sample tests online or on the ÖSD organization’s website.
   6.2 Preparation Materials: Use books that include sample tests, answer keys, advanced exercises, and CDs with audio texts for practice.
   6.3 Digital Test Training: Take free online sample tests to practice reading and listening skills and self-assess your writing.
   6.4 ÖSD Probeprüfung (Practice Exam): Take a practice exam to receive detailed feedback on your performance from ÖSD experts, helping you better prepare for the official exam.
7. How often can I take or retake the exam? You can take each test or module as many times as you like. For exams with two modules, the writing section (reading, listening, writing) must be repeated in full. If you fail the exam, it is recommended to wait at least four weeks before retaking it.
8. Where and when can I get my ÖSD certificate? Your testing center will provide all the information related to your ÖSD certificate.

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