Should You Take TELC Language Test?

Is your dream to study, work, or settle abroad, especially in Europe? You may want to learn and check your foreign language proficiency level. If so, take TELC (The European Language Certificates).

Studying a language is good for many reasons. The list has endless incentives, ranging from career and culture to possible immigration.

Regardless of your motive, you can prove your abilities if you already know a language or are learning one by taking an official language test such as TELC.

Let’s explore everything in detail.

What is TELC (The European Language Certificates)?

TELC (The European Language Certificates) is an international exam for ten languages. It is a standard test, meaning the questions will be the same no matter where you take it.

The examination shows an easy-to-understand, transparent, and reliable assessment of foreign language ability.

The TELC test follows the guidelines of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Thus, they conduct proficiency levels from A1 to C2 and tests for particular purposes.

Who conducts the test?

Telc GmbH, located in Frankfurt, Germany, administers Telc language tests.

Telc GmbH is a non-profit organization that is a subsidiary of the German Adult Education Association (DVV). It marks tests, cooperates with institutions, and manages all aspects of the tests in Germany and other countries.

Benefits of the TELC examination

The TELC examination has many clear advantages.

If you have been studying a European language for some time, you would surely like to know your current ability and level.

It helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can then focus on improving those parts to better prepare for the future.

You get success and boost your confidence when you pass it. As a result, the TELC certificate is proof of your language ability. It helps you with personal, professional, and social growth.

Do you want to study, work, or settle in Europe?

The TELC is an internationally recognized European language test. Many governments and organizations acknowledge this certificate.

Many governments, such as the Austrian, German, and Swiss, accept TELC as proof of language skill for citizenship and work permits.

In today’s globalized economy, foreign language skills play a vital role. A language certification like TELC can provide job prospects worldwide as it gives your resume a considerable edge.

Is there any disadvantage?

As with everything, there are some drawbacks.

Even though there are 10 languages, the test is restricted to European ones. So, if you want to take a Korean, Japanese, Mandarin, or Hindi test, you are out of luck!

Another point is that not all levels are available for every language. For example, you can take German, English, or even French or Spanish.

However, for Portuguese or Arabic, you have one level, B1. Likewise, dual-level B1-B2 is the only choice for Polish.

There aren’t many testing centers outside Europe, and that’s a negative aspect. Perhaps it is not that popular outside Europe. Hopefully, they will add more centers in other countries with enough demand and resources.

Everything About TELC

Check out everything about TELC (The European Language Certificate).

Recognition and Acceptance

Telc is a widely recognized language test. It is famous worldwide.

Many governments, universities, government bodies, educational institutions, and companies accept TELC certification.

TELC collaborates with and partners with several institutions in Spain, Germany, Hungary, Poland, the UK, and Turkey, to name a few.

For example, Switzerland and the Austrian Government consider TELC proof of language ability for residence permits and citizenship.

Available languages

Currently, the TELC test is available in 10 languages.

They provide the test in 9 European languages. This includes French, Spanish, German, English, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, and Turkish.

Arabic is the only available Asian language.

What are the levels you can take?

There are almost 100 types of tests in 10 languages. This includes standard ones open to adults. Plus, there are many specialized tests for various purposes, such as tests for schools or jobs.

1. Arabic — B1 (اللغة العربية).
2. English — A1, A2, A2-B1, B1, B1-B2, B2, C1, C2 (Standard), A1 (Junior), A2, A2-B1, B1, B1-B2, B2 (School), A2-B1, B1, B1-B2, B2, B2-C1 (Business), B2 (Technical), B1 (Restaurant), and B2-C1 (University).
3. French — A1, A2, B1, B2 (Standard), A1 (Junior), A2, B1 (Ecole), and B1 (profession).
4. German — A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 (Standard), A2, B1, B1-B2, B2, B2-C1, C1 (Beruf – Professional), A2, A2-B1 (Zuwanderer – Immigrant), A2-B1 (Zuwanderer – Youth integration), and B2, B2-C1 (Medizin -Medicine), B2-C1 (Medizin Fachsprachprüfung – Doctor’s technical test), A2 & B1 (Schule – School), A1 (Junior), B1-B2 (Pflege – care), and C1 (Hochschule – Higher studies).
5. Italian — A1, A2, B1, B2 (Standard Italiano).
6. Polish — B1-B2 (Język polski Szkoła – High school Polish).
7. Portuguese — B1 (Standard Portuguse language test).
8. Spanish — A1, A2, B1, B2 (Standard Español), A1, A2, A2-B1, B1, B2 (Escuela – School), and A1 (Junior).
9. Russian — A1, A2, B1, B2 (Standard Русский язык like TORFL exam).
10. Turkish — A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 (Standard Türkçe), A2, B1, B2 (Okul – School), and A2 (İlkokul – Junior).

Structure of the TELC exam

The test comprises two sections: oral (speaking) and written (listening, reading, and writing). Like the CEFR level test, it measures candidates’ listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills.

For example, the A1 written test lasts 65 minutes, A2 – 70 minutes, B1 – 150 minutes, B2 – 140 minutes, C1 – 220 minutes, and C2 – 250 minutes.

The standard written test includes the following:

1. Vocabulary and grammar (MCQs).
2. Listening comprehension & situational responses.
3. Writing (formal letter or subjective question).
4. Reading comprehension.

The reading and listening exercises have 3 tasks, and the writing has 1 question. The duration varies depending on the level.

They conduct the speaking exam straight after the written test for A1 with no preparation. For A2, there is a 15-minute gap. And from B1-C2, they give 20 minutes of preparation time.

The speaking comprises a discussion between 2-3 candidates. The time increases as the number of candidates increases. To earn the score, one must make relevant points on debatable topics.

The exam format, duration, and type of questions differ in specialized tests. For example, A1 junior French has 40 minutes written (listening – 10 and reading & writing – 30 minutes) and 15-20 for the speaking test.

The Telc website has all the information, including FAQs, practice materials, and eligibility for various tests.

Scoring and passing marks

The TELC has a total score of 300 points. The written test has 225 points, and the oral examination has 75 points.

To pass any TELC test, you need at least 60% written and oral. For instance, at least 135 points in writing and 45 points in speaking.

TELC test centers across the world

There are over 3,000 examination centers in 25 countries. Most test centers are in Europe, but some are in Asia, like India, Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, etc.

There is one testing center in Bangalore, India. The website allows you to find your nearest center.

Validity of the score & certification

Telc certificates never expire and are valid for an unlimited period.

Many academic institutions and companies have their own rules. Some, for instance, only recognize certifications gained in the last two to five years. Still, most accept them regardless of the test date.

TELC Dates

They conduct tests throughout the year, but each institution sets the dates independently.

The dates vary depending on centers, languages, and levels. So, it would be best to contact a nearby testing center to find out the upcoming dates.

You must also register and apply at least 2-3 weeks before the examination date.

Visit the center with application details and a valid ID to take the exam on the test date.

The result will be announced in 6 weeks. You can check the detailed score on the website. Afterward, you will receive an official certificate.

Telc examination fee

The fee varies depending on the language, level, type of test, and where you take the test.

It usually costs between £75 and £200. Some centers charge an extra fee for early evaluation and late entry.

Contact your center to find out the exact price for your target test.

How to Apply?

If you want to register for a specific exam, you can do so on the official website of your nearest test center. Then, you can sign up for the test by filling out and sending the registration form.

You can also register for the exam in person at the institution.

You can take the test as many times as you wish. Also, you do not need to retake the entire exam if you just want to pass a specific section. You can do this within one year of the last result.

How do you prepare for the TELC test?

TELC provides various study materials to help you prepare for various tests. This includes mock tests, model papers, handbooks, tips and advice, practice sets, and phrasebooks.

Many are totally free to download. There are also some paid ones, mainly hard copies. You can buy from the TELC online store. — LINK

Taking courses at a nearby language learning center or a specialized tutor is the most effective way to learn. This way, you’ll better understand the language and the test’s structure.

In addition to these approaches, you can consult various books, apps, and online resources, such as podcasts and apps, for your study plan.

Do you have questions, or would you like to share your opinion? Please do so in the comment section below!