Goethe, telc, or ÖSD — which German certificate do you need?
All three test the same CEFR levels (A1-C2) and are widely recognized, but they're run by different institutes with different exam centers and formats.
This page explains the three main certificate providers. Lerniyo doesn't issue any of these certificates — our own exam is built in their style to prepare you, but a visa or Ausbildung application requires sitting the official exam with one of these institutes. Requirements vary by consulate and change over time, so always confirm with the specific office handling your application.
The three institutes
Goethe-Institut
Run by Germany's own cultural institute. The most widely recognized name, with exam centers in most countries, including Morocco.
A1 to C2
Visa applications, citizenship, university admission, Ausbildung
telc (The European Language Certificates)
A Europe-wide network of exam centers, often with more available dates than Goethe. Offers versions tailored to specific purposes, like family-reunification visas.
A1 to C2
Family-reunification visas, Ausbildung, work visas
ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom)
Austria's official German-language diploma. Less common for Germany-only applications, but accepted by many institutions and required for Austria.
A1 to C2
Austria visas and citizenship, some German institutions
Which one should you take?
For most Ausbildung and German visa applications, all three are accepted at B1 — but always check your specific consulate's list of recognized institutes before booking, since requirements vary and change. If your consulate names one specifically, book that one. If you have a free choice, Goethe and telc tend to have the widest network of exam centers.
Want the deeper decision guide?
This page covers the quick side-by-side facts. Our full guide walks through how to actually decide based on your goal.
Read the full guideCommon questions
Does Lerniyo issue a Goethe, telc, or ÖSD certificate?
No. Lerniyo's own certificate confirms you completed our curriculum. It's built in the style of these exams to prepare you, but you still need to book and sit the official exam with one of these institutes for a visa or Ausbildung application.
Which one is cheapest?
Prices vary by country and exam center — there's no single answer. Check the specific exam center near you.
Can I prepare for any of them with Lerniyo?
Yes. The CEFR levels (A1-C2) are the same across all three, so the German you learn with Lerniyo prepares you for whichever one you end up booking.