A1

ÖSD A1 exam: format, pass mark and model test practice

The ÖSD Zertifikat A1 (ZA1) tests basic German for everyday situations. It has a written module of about 55 minutes and a short one-to-one speaking test. You pass with half of the points in each module.

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ÖSD A1 exam pattern

ZA1 has two modules: a written module (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben) taken in a group, and an oral module taken alone with the examiners. You get 10 minutes to prepare before speaking.

PartTimeTasksWhat you do
Lesen (Reading)25 min3 tasksShort everyday texts such as notices, adverts and messages
Hören (Listening)approx. 10 min3 tasksShort announcements and everyday conversations
Schreiben (Writing)20 min2 tasksFill in a form (5 points) and write a short simple text (10 points)
Sprechen (Speaking)approx. 10 min3 tasksIntroduce yourself, describe a simple picture and do a role play

Pass mark: 38 of 75 written and 12 of 25 oral

The written module is worth 75 points and the oral module 25 points. You pass a module with at least 38 written or 12 oral points, about 50%. Pass both on the same date, or within one year at the same exam centre, to get the full certificate.

ÖSD A1 Schreiben

Practise filling in forms with your personal details and writing short messages that answer every point in the task. Most lost points come from missing a point, not from grammar.

ÖSD A1 Sprechen

Prepare a short self-introduction, simple sentences to describe a picture (who, where, what is happening) and everyday role plays such as buying something or asking for information.

How to prepare for ÖSD A1

ÖSD publishes a free ZA1 Modellsatz with audio, answer keys and the scoring sheets. Use it to learn the format, then practise extra tasks with feedback.

ÖSD Zertifikat A1 on osd.at
  1. 1Download the official ZA1 Modellsatz and do one timed attempt
  2. 2Learn A1 words by topic: family, food, shopping, time, travel
  3. 3Do short reading and listening drills every day
  4. 4Write a form and a short message twice a week and correct every mistake
  5. 5Rehearse the self-introduction, picture description and role play out loud

ÖSD A1 exam questions

What is the pass mark for ÖSD A1?

You need at least 38 of 75 points in the written module and at least 12 of 25 points in the oral module. That is about 50% in each module.

How long is the ÖSD A1 exam?

The written module takes about 55 minutes: Lesen 25 minutes, Hören about 10 minutes and Schreiben 20 minutes. Speaking takes about 10 minutes, after 10 minutes of preparation.

Can I take only one module of ÖSD A1?

Yes. The written and oral modules can be taken and certified separately. If you pass both on one date, or within one year at the same exam centre, you get a full certificate.

Where can I find an ÖSD A1 Modelltest?

ÖSD offers a free official ZA1 Modellsatz on osd.at with the reading texts, listening audio, writing and speaking tasks and answer keys.

Is ÖSD A1 the same as Goethe A1?

No. Both test A1 German, but ÖSD A1 has its own format and pass marks. Goethe A1 needs 60 of 100 points in total; ÖSD A1 needs about half the points in each module.

Is CertiLang the official ÖSD website?

No. CertiLang is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with ÖSD. Check dates, fees and registration with your licensed ÖSD exam centre.

Practise ÖSD A1 with instant feedback

Timed Lesen, Hören, Schreiben and Sprechen tasks with feedback that shows where you lose points.

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