Free practice materials for A1 German reading comprehension exam with authentic sample questions and texts
The A1 Lesen (Reading) test is a crucial component of the A1 German certificate exam (Goethe-Zertifikat A1, telc Deutsch A1, ÖSD Zertifikat A1). This 25-minute exam section evaluates your ability to understand simple written German texts, including everyday messages, notices, forms, and short advertisements.
At the A1 level, you should be able to:
The A1 reading test typically consists of three parts:
Duration: 8-10 minutes
Task: Read short texts (notices, signs, advertisements) and match them with situations or people
Questions: 5 items
Duration: 8-10 minutes
Task: Read a simple text (email, letter, or message) and answer true/false questions
Questions: 5 items
Duration: 5-7 minutes
Task: Read short texts and match them with appropriate responses or situations
Questions: 5 items
Example 1 - Matching: You see 5 short notices (e.g., "Supermarkt geschlossen", "Arzt: 9-12 Uhr") and must match them to 5 situations.
Example 2 - True/False: Read an email from a friend about a party and decide if statements are richtig (true) or falsch (false).
Example 3 - Multiple Choice: Read short texts and choose the correct answer from three options.
| Text Type | Examples | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Signs & Notices | Shop opening hours, closed signs, directions | Times, dates, locations, basic instructions |
| Advertisements | Job ads, apartment rentals, items for sale | Prices, contact information, key details |
| Personal Messages | Emails, text messages, postcards | Who, what, when, where information |
| Forms | Registration forms, questionnaires | Personal information fields, checkboxes |
| Timetables | Bus schedules, opening hours, event programs | Times, days, sequences |
To succeed in the A1 reading test, you should know approximately 500-650 German words, including:
Effective preparation strategies include:
Access free practice tests with authentic exam-style questions and immediate feedback
Inizia Test Registrati GratisThe A1 reading test lasts 25 minutes and consists of three parts with a total of 15 questions.
You typically need 60% (9 out of 15 points) to pass the reading section. However, the overall A1 certificate requires passing all four sections (Lesen, Hören, Schreiben, Sprechen).
No, dictionaries are not allowed during the A1 exam. You must rely on your vocabulary knowledge and context clues.
All three exams test the same CEFR A1 level competencies. The format and question types are very similar, though there may be slight variations in presentation. Our practice materials prepare you for all three exam types.
You should know approximately 500-650 German words covering everyday topics like family, shopping, work, and free time.