ÖSD · Level A2
ÖSD Zertifikat A2: Exam Format & Preparation
The ÖSD Zertifikat A2 (ZA2) proves basic German for everyday life and work. In Austria level A2 plays a central role in the Integration Agreement; in Germany the certificate serves as a recognised interim credential.
- Level
- A2 – Elementary
- Exam provider
- ÖSD
- Duration
- approx. 1 h 25 min of test time
- Oral exam
- Oral module
- Separate modules
- Yes, can be taken separately
- Preparation
- approx. 200–350 teaching units
ÖSD Zertifikat A2 (ZA2): the essentials
The ÖSD Zertifikat A2 (ZA2) proves basic German for everyday life and work. In Austria level A2 plays a central role in the Integration Agreement; in Germany the certificate serves as a recognised interim credential. If you pass only one module, you receive a module certificate and take the other later. The tasks use texts and recordings from Austria, Germany and Switzerland, which suits anyone who wants to be mobile across the German-speaking world.
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 A2 required for?
Typical situations in which this certificate is required or recommended:
- Recognition partnership and other routes to professional recognition in Germany
- Integration Agreement in Austria (module 1)
- Admission to follow-on language and preparatory courses
- Proof of progress for an employer or authority
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 | 30 minutes |
| Listening | approx. 15 minutes |
| Writing | 30 minutes |
| Speaking (oral module) | approx. 10 minutes |
The written and oral modules can be taken separately or together. You receive the full certificate once both modules are 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 A2 you understand sentences and frequently used expressions on topics that concern you directly: family, shopping, work, your local area. You can handle simple routine situations and describe your background, education and daily life in simple terms.
How to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat A2
For this level you should expect, depending on prior knowledge and learning conditions, around 200–350 teaching units of 45 minutes each. What matters is that you do not just learn German but train specifically for the exam format.
- Write two short messages (text, email) on everyday topics each week and have them corrected.
- Listen to short announcements, voice messages and radio clips and note down only numbers, places and times.
- Practise planning something together: making suggestions, agreeing, declining, finding a date.
Online course German A2
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 A2
How long does the ÖSD Zertifikat A2 exam take?
The exam comprises approx. 1 h 25 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 and oral modules can be taken separately or together. You receive the full certificate once both modules are passed, on the same date or within one year at the same exam centre.
How long does it take to prepare for ÖSD Zertifikat A2?
As a guide, reaching level A2 takes around 200–350 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 A2 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 A2
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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