Common European Framework of Reference Exams

Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Exams

The Department of Germanic Studies administers the A1, A2, B1, B2 and C1 exams of the Common European Framework of Reference. These exams are recognized world-wide. They test the language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Exam papers are sent by the Goethe Institute Chicago and the results are also double-checked by the Goethe Institute, to ensure fair and standardized grading.

Exam dates for Fall 2021

Level Date Registration Deadline IU Time and Place Approximate Length** Fee
A1 Thursday, Sept 16 Thursday,  Sept 2 Hamilton Lugar, 3rd floor
8:30 AM
80 mins $130
A2 Thursday, Sept 23 Thursday, Sept 9 Hamilton Lugar, 8:30 AM 110 mins $135
B1 Thursday, Oct 21 Thursday, Oct 7 Hamilton Lugar, 8:30 AM 205 mins 190
EM*: $70
B2 Thursday, Oct 28 Thursday, Oct 14 Hamilton Lugar, 8:30 AM 220 mins $210
EM: $75
C1 Thursday, Nov 11 Thursday, Oct 28 Hamilton Lugar, 8:30 AM 220 mins $250
  • EM = Einzelmodule           ** test time – break time extra

    More information about the CEFR exams as well as practice materials can be found on the website of the Goethe-Institute Chicago: https://www.goethe.de/ins/us/en/sta/chi/prf.html.

If you want to take a CEFR exam, you have to:

By the registration deadline:

  • Register with Susanne Even (evens@iu.edu) and Lane Sorensen (lasorens@iu.edu) for the respective exam. This can be done via a short email.
  • Send the check with the exam fee to Susanne Even, Dept of Germanic Studies, Indiana University, Hamilton Lugar #3139, 355 N Jordan Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405. Make out the check to Susanne Even. The exam papers will be ordered once the check has arrived.
  • You will be informed of the examination room a few days before the exam.

On the day of the exam:

  • Bring a photo ID and a pen (pencils are not allowed) with you on the day of the exam.
  • In compliance with IU COVID security measures, social distancing will be observed during exams and masks must be worn at all times.

Learn more about CEFR exams View registration forms and exam pricing