ÖSD · Level A1
ÖSD Zertifikat A1: Exam Format & Preparation
The ÖSD Zertifikat A1 (ZA1) confirms elementary German and is accepted for residence permits in Austria as well as for the spouse visa for Germany. It is the entry-level exam of the Austrian German Language Diploma.
- Level
- A1 – Beginner
- Exam provider
- ÖSD
- Duration
- approx. 1 h 5 min of test time
- Oral exam
- Individual exam
- Separate modules
- Yes, can be taken separately
- Preparation
- approx. 80–200 teaching units
ÖSD Zertifikat A1 (ZA1): the essentials
The ÖSD Zertifikat A1 (ZA1) confirms elementary German and is accepted for residence permits in Austria as well as for the spouse visa for Germany. It is the entry-level exam of the Austrian German Language Diploma. Unlike Goethe and telc, the oral part is an individual exam: you briefly introduce yourself, describe a picture and act out a role play. In writing you fill in a form and write a simple text.
The ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) is Austria’s state-approved exam system for German as a foreign and second language. ÖSD exams take into account standard German as used in Austria, Germany and Switzerland, and every exam is assessed by two trained examiners. You can read more about the levels at the Council of Europe (CEFR) and in our overview of all German certificates.
What is ÖSD Zertifikat A1 required for?
Typical situations in which this certificate is required or recommended:
- Spouse (family reunion) visa for Germany
- Au pair visa
- Opportunity Card (German A1 or English B2 as the minimum)
- a first official record for a school, course or employer
ÖSD certificates are recognised in Austria, Germany and Switzerland for residence, citizenship, study and work. We clarify with you exactly which level your embassy, authority or university requires, if needed together with our visa application assistance.
Exam structure and duration
| Section | Duration |
|---|---|
| Reading | 25 minutes |
| Listening | approx. 10 minutes |
| Writing | 20 minutes |
| Speaking (individual exam) | approx. 10 minutes |
The exam consists of two modules, written and oral, which can be taken separately or together. For the full certificate both modules must be passed, on the same date or within one year at the same exam centre.
Information as of November 2026. The provider’s current exam regulations are binding: ÖSD.
What you need to be able to do
At A1 you understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very simple sentences. You can introduce yourself and others, ask and answer questions about personal details such as where someone lives or what they own. Communication works when the other person speaks slowly and clearly.
How to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat A1
For this level you should expect, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, around 80–200 teaching units of 45 minutes each. What matters is that you do not just learn German but train specifically for the exam format.
- Learn a fixed structure for the forms and short messages in the writing part: greeting, three content points, closing.
- Practise spelling your name, numbers, times and prices until it is automatic; they come up in listening and speaking almost every time.
- Rehearse the speaking part aloud with a partner: introducing yourself, asking questions, making requests.
Online course German A1
Structured lessons and exercises for all four skills, at your own pace.
View course →Mock exams in exam format
Three full practice tests with answers, audio and marking guidance.
View mock exams →Speaking practice with a teacher
The oral part practised live, with feedback against the official criteria.
View speaking practice →Registration, dates and fees
You sit the exam at a licensed ÖSD exam centre. There are centres in Austria, Germany and many other countries. You normally receive your result and certificate through your exam centre a few weeks after the exam date.
Each exam centre sets its own fee, which you pay directly to the centre. With our registration service we find a suitable date near you, tell you the current fee and guide you through registration.
Recognition and validity
ÖSD certificates are valid indefinitely. For official procedures a recent certificate is often expected. The German government publishes current information on language requirements for visas and residence at Make it in Germany.
How we support you all the way to your certificate
- Assessment and plan. We clarify your goal, assess your current level and draw up a realistic timeline to your exam date.
- Focused preparation. With a course, mock exams and, if you wish, a personal teacher you learn exactly what the exam demands.
- Exam registration. We find a date and exam centre and help with forms and documents.
- Exam and next steps. You sit the exam in person. Afterwards we support you with your visa, applications or the next level.
Frequently asked questions: ÖSD Zertifikat A1
How long does the ÖSD Zertifikat A1 exam take?
The exam comprises approx. 1 h 5 min of test time. Add breaks, the ID check and waiting time before the oral part; it is best to keep the whole day free.
What is the pass mark?
The exam consists of two modules, written and oral, which can be taken separately or together. For the full certificate both modules must be passed, on the same date or within one year at the same exam centre.
How long does it take to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat A1?
As a guide, reaching level A1 takes around 80–200 teaching units. If you already have the level and only need to train for the exam format, focused preparation often gets you exam-ready in four to eight weeks.
How much does the exam cost?
The fee is set by each exam centre and differs by country and location. We tell you the current fee for your preferred location as part of your consultation.
How long is the certificate valid?
ÖSD certificates are valid indefinitely. For official procedures a recent certificate is often expected.
Can I retake the exam?
Yes. Modules you did not pass can be retaken individually.
Can you get ÖSD Zertifikat A1 without taking the exam?
No. A genuine certificate is issued only by the exam provider after you pass the exam. Offers that promise a certificate “without an exam” are forgeries: embassies and authorities verify certificates directly with the issuer, and using forged documents is a criminal offence that can cost you your visa or residence permit. The safe route is good preparation, and that is what we help you with.
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Ask for advice: ÖSD Zertifikat A1
Tell us briefly what you need the certificate for and by when. Within 24 hours you receive a personal reply: which level you need, how long preparation takes and where you can sit the exam. The first consultation is free and without obligation.
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