Do you wish to work, live or study in Germany? Well, you will have to take a German language exam as a prerequisite. Knowing German has a wide range of benefits from better career options and effective communications with global partners. There are two main exams that can be taken, similar to English IELTS or TOEFL exams—ÖSD or Goethe.  Both exams are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

ÖSD or Goethe: The major Differences

What is ÖSD ?

ÖSD stands for Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (ÖSD). The ÖSD exam is recognised internationally as a proof of language competence in German. ÖSD fosters the concept of German being a pluricentric language; thus the standard varieties of the German speaking countries Austria, Switzerland and Germany (DACH countries) are equally represented in the exam. ÖSD certification works for those looking to work, study and live in these countries. 

What is Goethe? 

Goethe is another German language proficiency exam for young people and adults, which certifies that the candidate has acquired advanced language skills. It is  a non-profit German cultural association operational worldwide with 159 institutes, promoting the study of the German language abroad and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. 

The Goethe-Institut was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany. It is named after Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Germany’s most famous writers and poets

In addition to its language and cultural programs, the Goethe-Institut also offers a variety of German language examinations. These examinations are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and are widely accepted by German universities, employers, and government agencies.

Exam levels

ÖSD exams are internationally recognised and range from A1 to C2 levels. Communicating on a basic level in simple situations of everyday life is the focus at the A1 and A2 levels. The B1 and B2 levels make you more proficient to carry out conversations with native speakers in a fluent and spontaneous way, as well as for professional use. C1 and C2 levels come unhandy for more complex communication, and may come in handy for certain advanced professional needs. 

All the four language skills—reading, listening, writing and speaking—are tested in the ÖSD exam. The exam is divided into written and oral parts (for all except B1 and C2). The written exam comprises reading, listening and writing. You can pass the written and oral exams separately. 

Goethe exams too range from levels A1 to C2. The levels of the Goethe exams are similar to that of the ÖSD exams. The Goethe B1 and the ÖSD B1 are lookalikes and were created together. You need at least a 60% mark to pass each module of this exam.

Other Major Difference between ÖSD and Goethe

Test format

• Both ÖSD and Goethe exams are paper-based, but Goethe also offers computer-based exams for some levels.
• Both exams typically include a listening section, reading section, writing section, and speaking section.

Exam acceptance

• Both ÖSD and Goethe exams are widely accepted in Germany and other German-speaking countries.
• However, Goethe exams are generally more well-known internationally.

Cost

• The cost of ÖSD and Goethe exams varies depending on the test center and the exam level.
• However, the cost is generally similar for both exams.

Benefits of taking an ÖSD exam

• ÖSD exams are known for their high quality and rigor.
• ÖSD exams are also relatively affordable.
• ÖSD exams are offered at a variety of test centers around the world.

Benefits of taking a Goethe exam

• Goethe exams are widely accepted internationally.
• Goethe exams are offered at a variety of test centers around the world.
• Goethe exams offer a variety of exam formats, including computer-based exams.

Which exam should I take?

• Ultimately, the best way to decide which exam to take is to consider your individual needs and goals. If you are unsure which exam is right for you, you can contact an ÖSD or Goethe test center for more information.
• Both ÖSD and Goethe are excellent providers of German language examinations. The best exam for you will depend on your individual needs and goals.
• You can choose either of these exams and get ready for confident conversations in German in a matter of weeks.

FAQ

The most frequently asked questions about the ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) and Goethe-Institute German language exams are:

What is the difference between the ÖSD and Goethe German language certificates?

A: The OSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) and Goethe-Zertifikat are both internationally recognized German language certificates. However, there are some key differences between the two:

The OSD is developed and administered by the Austrian Ministry of Education, while the Goethe-Zertifikat is developed and administered by the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural organization.

The OSD is more focused on academic German, while the Goethe-Zertifikat is more focused on everyday German.

The OSD offers a wider range of certificates, from A1 to C2, while the Goethe-Zertifikat only offers certificates at levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2.

Which certificate is better?

A: Neither certificate is better than the other. The best certificate for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. If you are planning to study in Germany, you may want to take the OSD, as it is more widely accepted by German universities. If you are planning to work or live in Germany, you may want to take the Goethe-Zertifikat, as it is more widely accepted by employers.

Which exam is more difficult?

The difficulty of the two exams is similar, but there are some key differences. The ÖSD exams are known for being more focused on grammar and vocabulary, while the Goethe-Institut exams are more focused on communication and fluency.

Which exam is more expensive?

The cost of the two exams varies depending on the level of the exam and the country where the exam is taken. However, in general, the ÖSD exams are slightly more expensive than the Goethe-Institut exams.

Which exam is better for me?

The best exam for you depends on your individual needs and goals. If you need an exam that is widely recognized worldwide, then the Goethe-Institut exams are a good choice. If you are interested in studying or working in a German-speaking country, then the ÖSD exams are a good choice.

What are the different levels of the exams?

Both the ÖSD and Goethe-Institut exams offer six levels of exams, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

How can I register for the exams?

You can register for the ÖSD exams online or at an ÖSD exam center. Boundless is an otharised osd exam center.  You can register for the Goethe-Institut exams online or at a Goethe-Institute center.

When are the exams held?

The ÖSD exams are held several times a year at exam centers around the world. The Goethe-Institute exams are also held several times a year at exam centers around the world. For ÖSD exam registration click here. 

What are the passing scores for the exams?

The passing scores for the ÖSD and Goethe exams vary depending on the level of the exam. However, in general, you need to achieve a score of at least 60% to pass the exam.

Are the ÖSD and Goethe-Zertifikat certificates recognized in Germany?

Yes, both the OSD and Goethe-Zertifikat certificates are recognized in Germany.

Can I take the ÖSD or Goethe-Zertifikat exam online?

No, neither the OSD nor the Goethe-Zertifikat exam can be taken online. Both exams must be taken in person at a certified examination center.

How long does it take to get my OSD or Goethe-Zertifikat certificate?

You will typically receive your OSD or Goethe-Zertifikat certificate within a few weeks of taking the exam.