The TELC Written Exam B1 Digital is the most modern and flexible option among the B1 partial exams: you complete the written part of the B1 exam entirely on a computer — without an oral exam and without pen and paper. At Lingocare in Frankfurt we offer this forward-looking exam format with full technical equipment. In this article you will find everything you need to know about the structure, who it is for, how it compares to other formats, and how to prepare effectively.
What is the TELC Written Exam B1 Digital?
The TELC Written Exam B1 Digital combines two key features: it is firstly a partial exam — meaning only the written part is tested, with no oral section — and secondly a digital exam, in which the entire written part is completed on a provided computer.
In terms of content, it is fully equivalent to the written part of the TELC B1 exam at B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The certificate issued is an officially recognised TELC document confirming written German language skills at B1 level — equally valid as the certificate from the paper version. No oral part, no handwriting — everything digitally on a computer.
Who should take this exam?
The TELC Written Exam B1 Digital is the ideal choice for:
Digitally confident candidates with partial requirements: Anyone who prefers typing to handwriting and simultaneously only needs written proof at B1 level will find this format the perfect combination of a modern approach and targeted exam content.
Fast typists without an oral requirement: Anyone who types significantly faster than they write by hand and does not need an oral exam section benefits doubly — from the digital format and from the absence of the oral part.
Candidates with an existing oral B1 certificate: Anyone who has already completed the oral part of the B1 exam and only needs the written proof — preferably in digital form — is perfectly served by this option.
Professionals with limited time: Since there is no oral part, the total exam duration is shorter. For professionals looking to minimise their exam commitments, this is a relevant advantage.
Candidates with difficult handwriting: The digital format eliminates the risk of illegible handwriting negatively affecting the assessment of the writing section. On a computer, text is always clear and correctly formatted.
How is it different from the paper version?
The difference from the TELC Written Exam B1 (paper version) lies solely in the medium: in the paper version, all tasks are completed on paper — you write by hand. In the digital version, all tasks are completed on a provided computer — you type. Content, task types, level, and assessment criteria are identical in both versions. Both versions have no oral exam section. The certificate is equally recognised in both cases.
How is it different from the full B1 Digital exam?
The full TELC B1 Digital exam consists of a written part on a computer and an oral part in person. The certificate of the full exam confirms German language skills at B1 level across all four competency areas including speaking.
The TELC Written Exam B1 Digital, on the other hand, covers only the written part on a computer — without an oral section. You receive a certificate confirming only written language skills at B1 level. If your authority or institution requires a full B1 certificate, you must take the complete exam. If written proof alone is sufficient, the partial exam is the more flexible and affordable option.
Exam Structure: What is tested?
The entire written part takes place on a provided computer. There is no oral section. The four sections are:
Reading: You read texts on screen — such as articles, notices, short reports, or advertisements — and select the correct answers by clicking or typing. Reading tasks test whether you can understand the main points, important details, and the purpose of a text at B1 level. Topics are everyday and realistic.
Listening: Audio files are played through provided headphones. You listen to conversations, interviews, or announcements at B1 level and complete tasks directly on the computer. Recordings are played twice. The digital format does not change the content or difficulty of the listening tasks.
Language elements: You complete missing words or expressions in short texts — either by clicking the correct option or by typing directly. Grammar and vocabulary at B1 level are tested. Frequently tested structures include prepositions, verb conjugations, connectors, and adjective endings.
Writing: You compose your text directly on the computer — for example a letter, an email, or a short report on a given topic. The clear advantage of the digital format: you can revise your text at any time while writing, rephrase sentences, and correct typing errors effortlessly — without crossing out or rewriting.
The written part lasts approximately 95 minutes in total. Even on a computer, careful time management is essential — distribute your time evenly across all four sections.
Where does the exam take place?
The TELC Written Exam B1 Digital takes place in our modern, fully equipped facilities at Lingocare, Gerbermühlstraße 9, 60594 Frankfurt am Main. All computers, headphones, keyboards, and mice are provided by Lingocare — you do not need any personal devices.
The exam begins at 09:15 AM. Please arrive no later than 08:50 AM. Registration and briefing take place on the 5th floor. Late arrivals unfortunately cannot be admitted.
What do you need to bring?
- Valid ID card or passport — mandatory
- No personal devices needed — computers, headphones, keyboard, and mouse are provided by Lingocare
- No pens or paper required — everything is provided
- Drinks are permitted, but only with the label removed from the bottle
- Mobile phones and smartwatches must be switched off and stored away
How to register?
Registration for the TELC Written Exam B1 Digital is simple and fully online at lingo.care:
- Choose your date: Visit lingo.care and select an available date for the Written Exam B1 Digital on our booking calendar.
- Complete the form: Enter your full name, date of birth, and contact details.
- Make the payment: The exam fee is €175. Payment is made securely online.
- Receive your confirmation: After a successful booking you will immediately receive a confirmation email, plus a reminder email 7 days before the exam with all important details.
Places are limited — register early to secure your preferred date.
👉 Book your spot — TELC Written Exam B1 Digital Frankfurt
Preparation tips
Practise writing in German on a computer. Since the entire written part is digital, regularly practise writing longer German texts on a computer — especially the writing section where structure and quality of expression count. Also familiarise yourself with the German keyboard layout if you are not used to it.
Use official TELC B1 practice materials. The digital partial exam is identical in content to the written part of the paper version. Official TELC B1 model tests (telc.net) are therefore the ideal preparation. Practise the task types until you are fully comfortable with the structure of each section.
Focus your preparation on the four written skills. Since there is no oral part, you can direct your entire preparation towards reading, listening, language elements, and writing — a clear advantage compared to the full exam.
Practise time management. 95 minutes for four sections — the writing section is typically the most time-intensive. In every mock test, practise keeping strictly to the time limits and completing all sections fully.
Listen to German every day. Listening comprehension is a full exam section — even in the digital format. Listen to German podcasts, radio programmes, and news broadcasts to continuously improve your listening skills.
Expand your active vocabulary. At B1 level, topics from everyday life, the workplace, and social life are tested. Learn relevant vocabulary in these areas and practise using it actively in written texts.
Familiarise yourself with the digital exam format. Review information about the TELC digital exam interface in advance so that on exam day you can focus fully on the tasks without losing time navigating the system.
Exam fee: €175 Location: Gerbermühlstraße 9, 60594 Frankfurt am Main Start: 09:15 AM (entry until 08:50 AM) Registration: Online at lingo.care