A strong speaking score may no longer be enough to pass Germany’s German language test. From November 1, 2026, stricter rules are set to apply to the German Test for Immigrants (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer or DTZ), requiring candidates to demonstrate basic skills across the written sections of the examination.
The change is aimed at tackling suspected cheating and ensuring that migrants have the German language skills needed for everyday life.
What Is Changing in Germany’s Language Test?
The DTZ is generally taken by migrants at the end of a government-supported integration course. It assesses four skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The test can award results at A2 or B1 level.
Under the previous scoring system, candidates could achieve B1 by reaching that level in speaking and in either the writing section or the combined listening and reading section.
Under the revised rules, candidates must achieve B1 in speaking and in at least one of the written assessment components. They must also score at least A2 in the other written component. This means candidates cannot rely on strong scores in other areas while leaving one written section unanswered or performing very poorly in it.
Why Is Germany Introducing Stricter Rules?
Germany’s Interior Ministry has pointed to suspected cheating in language examinations. Some candidates allegedly obtained test questions and answers illegally online and used them to perform well in listening and reading while leaving writing unanswered.
The revised rules are intended to close this loophole and ensure that candidates demonstrate a minimum level of German proficiency across the required sections.
