Welcome to our guide by Jaberi lawyers on naturalization with the C1 certificate! Obtaining the C1 Zertifikat Deutsch not only improves your language skills and career opportunities but also speeds up the process of naturalization. Thanks to the new Naturalization Act, you can apply for German citizenship after just three years of residence in Germany. Discover how the C1 certificate can pave your way to naturalization.
What is the C1 Certificate?
The C1 certificate is a significant proof of advanced German language skills, particularly valuable for those who wish to live, work, or study in Germany.
The C1 Level in the CEFR According to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the C1 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) signifies a very high level of proficiency in German. With a C1 certificate, you can communicate effortlessly on complex topics, understand demanding texts, and use standard German confidently in various contexts.
Comparison with the DSH2 Level While the C1 and DSH2 levels are identical, there is an important distinction: the DSH2 certificate is specifically required for some students wishing to study at any German university. The C1 certificate, while proving advanced language skills, is recognized by only 168 universities in Germany. Thus, about 60% of German universities may still require the DSH2 exam for admission.
Advantages of the C1 Certificate
The C1 certificate offers numerous advantages across academic, professional, and legal fields, opening new doors in many areas of life.
Academic Advantages
- Access to Specialist Literature: You can read and understand complex academic texts.
- Participation in International Programs: Many programs in Germany require high-level German skills.
- Communication in the University Environment: Facilitates participation in lectures, seminars, and discussions.
Professional Advantages
- Enhanced Job Opportunities: Many employers in Germany prefer applicants with advanced German language skills.
- Better Communication: Facilitates daily workplace communication.
- Professional Development: Enables participation in further education and training in German.
Legal Advantages The C1 certificate significantly accelerates the naturalization process, allowing you to apply for German citizenship after just three years of residence, under the new Citizenship Act (StARModG).
Naturalization with the C1 Certificate
The new Naturalization Act, effective June 27, 2024, brings significant changes, shortening the required period of residence from eight to five years. With special integration achievements, such as obtaining the C1 certificate, you can apply for citizenship after just three years. Additionally, dual citizenship is now permitted, allowing you to retain your original nationality.
Exam Structure and Requirements
The C1 certificate consists of various written and oral examination sections, testing your skills in reading, listening, writing, and speaking. The most common exams are the Goethe-Zertifikat C1 and the TELC C1 exam.
Goethe-Zertifikat C1
- Reading: 70 minutes
- Listening: 40 minutes
- Writing: 80 minutes
- Oral: 15 minutes (pair test) or 10 minutes (individual test)
- Passing Score: 60 points out of 100
TELC C1 Exam
- Reading: 90 minutes (3 parts)
- Listening: 40 minutes (3 parts)
- Writing: 70 minutes (1 part)
- Oral: 16 minutes (usually with 2 participants)
Preparation for the C1 Exam
Preparing for the C1 exam requires discipline, planning, and suitable learning materials.
Tips for Preparation
- Daily Practice: Set daily learning goals and practice consistently.
- Vocabulary Training: Use flashcards or apps to learn and review new words.
- Practice Speaking: Find language partners or join conversation groups.
- Reading Comprehension: Read challenging texts to improve comprehension.
Recommendations for Exercise Materials and Courses
- Exercise Books: “Goethe-Zertifikat C1: Übungsbuch”, “TELC Deutsch C1: Übungsmaterial”
- Intensive Courses: Language schools, adult education centers
- Online Resources: Deutsche Welle, Goethe-Institut, TELC, Babbel, Lingoda, Coursera, YouTube channels like “Learn German with Anja” or “Deutsch mit Marija”
Costs and Registration
The costs for the C1 exam vary by provider and location.
Goethe-Zertifikat C1
- Regular Fee: €290
- Partner School Fee: €210
- Retake Fee: €85 per part (regular), €65 per part (partner school)
TELC C1 Exam
- Complete Exam: €250
- Partial Exam: €200
Registration Process
- Required Documents: Identity card or passport, proof of partner school if applicable.
- Deadlines: Register early to secure a spot.
- Procedure: Typically online via the exam provider’s website or in person.
