A recognised German-language certificate for many purposes
If you need to prove your German level for travel, study or work, the ECL exam gives you a certificate of your level based on the European examination system.
The German exam is available at these levels:
A2 – B1 – B2 – C1
Exam skills
The ECL exam assesses four core German-language skills:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
You can take the full exam or choose separate modules, depending on your needs and on the requirements of the institution you will submit the certificate to.
How to pass the ECL exam
Under the current rules, you need at least 60% in each module of the exam to pass it.
If you pass the modules separately, you can combine all four into a single certificate within up to one year, in line with ECL regulations, even if you passed them in different exam sessions.
Preparing for the exam
To help you prepare, the official ECL website offers sample exams and practice material that help you:
- Get to know the exam format.
- Understand the tasks in each skill.
- Practise with papers similar to the real exam.
- Be better prepared on exam day.
How long is an ECL certificate valid?
Under ECL regulations, the certificate has no general expiry date.
Acceptance requirements can still differ from one institution to another, so always check the conditions of the university, employer or authority you will submit it to.
Why choose the ECL exam?
- Levels from A2 to C1.
- A complete assessment of all four skills.
- Take the full exam or separate modules.
- Combine modules into one certificate, in line with the regulations.
- Sample papers and preparation material before the exam.
- A certificate suited to many purposes, subject to the requirements of the receiving institution.
Next exam round at DKWNovember 2026
Take your first step towards a German-language certificate
Contact us to choose the right level for you and find out about exam dates, fees, registration requirements and how to book.