ÖSD · Level B2
ÖSD Zertifikat B2: Exam Format & Preparation
The ÖSD Zertifikat B2 (ZB2) proves independent, advanced use of German. In Austria it is required for many health and social care professions and for admission to some degree programmes; in Germany for professional recognition and skilled employment.
- Level
- B2 – Upper intermediate
- Exam provider
- ÖSD
- Duration
- approx. 3 h 50 min of test time
- Oral exam
- 15 to 20 minutes
- Separate modules
- Yes, can be taken separately
- Preparation
- approx. 600–800 teaching units
ÖSD Zertifikat B2 (ZB2): the essentials
The ÖSD Zertifikat B2 (ZB2) proves independent, advanced use of German. In Austria it is required for many health and social care professions and for admission to some degree programmes; in Germany for professional recognition and skilled employment. With 90 minutes each for reading and writing, the ÖSD exam at B2 is noticeably longer than the Goethe and telc versions, but you have more time per task. Two trained examiners assess your writing and speaking against fixed criteria.
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 B2 required for?
Typical situations in which this certificate is required or recommended:
- Professional recognition in nursing and many healthcare professions
- Skilled employment and many vocational training programmes
- Studienkolleg and university preparation courses
- Prerequisite for the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung) for doctors
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 | 90 minutes |
| Listening | approx. 30 minutes |
| Writing | 90 minutes |
| Speaking (15 to 20 minutes) | approx. 20 minutes |
The written exam (reading, listening, writing) and the oral exam are two modules that can be taken separately or together. You receive the full certificate when both are passed within one year at the same centre.
Information as of November 2026. The provider’s current exam regulations are binding: ÖSD.
What you need to be able to do
At B2 you understand the main content of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your own field. You communicate spontaneously and fluently enough for normal conversation with native speakers and can explain a viewpoint with its advantages and disadvantages.
How to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat B2
For this level you should expect, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, around 600–800 teaching units of 45 minutes each. What matters is that you do not just learn German but train specifically for the exam format.
- Write forum posts and formal emails regularly, focusing on clear structure and linking words.
- Listen to podcasts or news at natural speed every day and summarise the content in three sentences.
- Practise discussions: taking a position, responding to counter-arguments, disagreeing politely.
Online course German B2
Structured lessons and exercises for all four skills, at your own pace.
View course →Exam training
Practice tests in the format of the official exams with answers and audio.
View exam training →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 B2
How long does the ÖSD Zertifikat B2 exam take?
The exam comprises approx. 3 h 50 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 written exam (reading, listening, writing) and the oral exam are two modules that can be taken separately or together. You receive the full certificate when both are passed within one year at the same centre.
How long does it take to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat B2?
As a guide, reaching level B2 takes around 600–800 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 B2 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.
Related certificates
Ask for advice: ÖSD Zertifikat B2
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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