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Exam target
The exam ÖSD Zertifikat B2 certifies a candidate’s ability to communicate clearly and in detail on a broad range of topics and conduct a normal conversation with native speakers in a spontaneous and fluent way.
This exam certifies language competence in communicative situations that go beyond the private sphere, as well as (semi-)public and professional fields. Candidates are able to understand text dealing with their area of expertise.
This exam is directed at learners aged 16 and over, an altered version is tailored to young learners aged 14 and above.
The exam comprises two modules: the Written exam (Reading, Listening and Writing) and the Oral exam (Speaking), focusing mainly on communicative competence, even though attention is also paid to formal accuracy.
Reading
Comprehension of various authentic texts from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland in terms of their overall meaning and individual content is assessed through four tasks.
Duration: 90 minutes.
Writing
Using multiple prompts, two texts (formal email, argumentation/expression of opinion) must be written and will be assessed according to established criteria (see evaluation sheet).
Duration: 90 minutes.
Listening
Global, detailed, and selective comprehension is assessed in two tasks using standard-spoken authentic audio texts from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, covering general and sociocultural topics.
Duration: approximately 30 minutes.
Speaking
The individual or pair examination consists of three tasks: an information conversation, an image discussion, and a discussion. The examination conversation is assessed according to established criteria (see evaluation sheet).
Duration: Individual examination 15–20 minutes, pair examination 20–25 minutes.
Exam administration
The ÖSD Certificate B2 examination is offered in two modules: Written examination (Reading, Listening, Writing) and Oral examination (Speaking). The modules can be taken and certified individually or in combination. If both modules are passed at the same examination session, a comprehensive certificate is issued. Similarly, exam participants receive a comprehensive certificate if they take and pass both modules within a year at the same examination center. Passing a single module results in a module certificate. The examination is conducted by two trained ÖSD examiners, who then evaluate the performance of the participants (see score form). By request, an inspection of the rating sheet is possible. Here you can find the Exam Regulations and the Terms and Conditions for Exam Administration.
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