ÖSD B2 Schreiben
You write two texts in 90 minutes: a formal email and an argument or opinion text. Practise a clear structure, the right formal register and linking words that move your argument forward.
B2
ÖSD B2 exam: format, pass mark and model test practice
The ÖSD Zertifikat B2 (ZB2) tests German for study, work and detailed discussion. Unlike Goethe B2, it has only two modules: a long written exam of about 210 minutes and an oral exam.
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ÖSD B2 exam pattern
ZB2 has a written module (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben) and an oral module. You get 15 minutes to prepare before the speaking test, which can be taken alone or in a pair.
| Part | Time | Tasks | What you do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lesen (Reading) | 90 min | 4 tasks | Understand different authentic texts (20 points) |
| Hören (Listening) | approx. 30 min | 2 tasks | Global, detailed and selective listening (20 points) |
| Schreiben (Writing) | 90 min | 2 texts | A formal email and an argument or opinion text (15 points each) |
| Sprechen (Speaking) | 15–25 min | 3 tasks | An information exchange, a picture discussion and a debate (30 points) |
Pass mark: 42 of 70 written and 18 of 30 oral
The written module is worth 70 points (Lesen 20, Hören 20, Schreiben 30) and the oral module 30 points. You need 60% in a module to pass it: 42 written or 18 oral points. Pass both on the same date, or within one year at the same exam centre, to get the full certificate.
ÖSD B2 Sprechen
Prepare for three tasks: exchanging information, discussing a picture and debating a topic. Practise giving reasons, reacting to the other person and defending your view without a memorised script.
How to prepare for ÖSD B2
ÖSD publishes a free ZB2 Modellsatz with audio, answer keys and the scoring sheets. Use it to learn the format, then practise extra tasks with feedback.
ÖSD Zertifikat B2 on osd.at- 1Download the official ZB2 Modellsatz and do the written module in one 210-minute sitting
- 2Build stamina: 90 minutes of reading at B2 is the hardest part for many candidates
- 3Write a formal email and an opinion text every week within 90 minutes
- 4Collect phrases for agreeing, disagreeing and giving examples
- 5Rehearse the picture discussion and debate with a partner or with feedback
ÖSD B2 exam questions
What is the pass mark for ÖSD B2?
You need at least 42 of 70 points in the written module and at least 18 of 30 points in the oral module, which is 60% in each module.
How long is the ÖSD B2 exam?
The written module takes about 210 minutes: Lesen 90 minutes, Hören about 30 minutes and Schreiben 90 minutes. Speaking takes 15–20 minutes alone or 20–25 minutes in a pair, after 15 minutes of preparation.
How is ÖSD B2 different from Goethe B2?
Goethe B2 has four separate modules, each passed with 60%. ÖSD B2 has two modules, written and oral, and Lesen, Hören and Schreiben are scored together in the written module.
What do I write in ÖSD B2 Schreiben?
Two texts in 90 minutes: a formal email and an argument or opinion text. Each is worth up to 15 points.
Where can I find an ÖSD B2 Modelltest?
ÖSD offers a free official ZB2 Modellsatz on osd.at with all tasks, the listening audio, answer keys and scoring sheets.
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 B2 with instant feedback
Timed Lesen, Hören, Schreiben and Sprechen tasks with feedback that shows where you lose points.