German A1 – Beginner Level Guide
The German A1 level is the first and most basic level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This level is designed for absolute beginners who want to start learning German and develop basic communication skills.
What Can You Do at A1 Level?
By completing the A1 level, you will be able to:
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Understand and use simple everyday expressions.
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Introduce yourself and ask/respond to basic personal questions.
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Interact in a simple way if the other person speaks slowly.
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Read and write short, basic texts.
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Understand numbers, time, prices, and directions in daily conversations.
German A1 Exam & Certification
Many institutions, including Goethe-Institut, TELC, ÖSD, and TestDaF, offer official A1 certification. This certification is often required for visas, jobs, or studies in Germany.
Exam Format (Goethe-Zertifikat A1)
🕒 Total Duration: 60–80 minutes (varies by test provider)
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1️⃣ Listening (Hören) – 20 minutes
Understand simple announcements, conversations, and dialogues.
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2️⃣ Reading (Lesen) – 25 minutes
Comprehend basic emails, signs, and short texts.
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3️⃣ Writing (Schreiben) – 20 minutes
Write simple sentences, fill out forms, and draft short messages.
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4️⃣ Speaking (Sprechen) – 15 minutes
Introduce yourself, ask/respond to basic questions, and engage in short conversations.
Basic German A1 Vocabulary & Grammar
📌 Essential Vocabulary
- Greetings & Introductions (Hallo, Guten Tag, Wie heißt du?)
- Numbers, Days, and Time (eins, zwei, Montag, Uhrzeiten)
- Family & Relationships (Mutter, Vater, Freund, Lehrerin)
- Daily Activities & Hobbies (lesen, arbeiten, schwimmen, essen)
- Shopping & Food (Brot, Milch, Supermarkt, Preis)
📌 Basic Grammar Concepts
- Nouns & Articles (der, die, das – gendered nouns)
- Verb Conjugation (sein, haben, gehen, kommen, machen)
- Simple Sentence Structure (Ich bin Student. Er arbeitet in Berlin.)
- Basic Questions (Wo wohnst du? Wie alt bist du? Was machst du?)
- Negation (nicht, kein – Ich habe keinen Hund.)
Who Should Take German A1?
- ✅ Students & professionals preparing to move to Germany.
- ✅ Tourists who want to learn basic German for travel.
- ✅ Spouses/Family members applying for a German visa.
- ✅ Anyone interested in learning a new language for personal growth.