If you are learning a language and need to prove your skills to others, you need a language certificate. If you are applying for an apprenticeship or for a degree programme, where good language skills are a basic requirement, you need meaningful proof. So, does a language certificate open up a promising future? Is it as promising as the bookmaker online?
The different language levels (English)
Elementary language use
A1: You can communicate in simple and general everyday situations. You can answer and understand simple, personal questions such as age, origin, and address. Simple sentences and simple texts are understood if the native speaker speaks slowly and clearly, and texts are written in simple English.
A2: You can communicate in simple everyday situations. You can communicate in familiar situations and name things in certain areas. This includes, for example, describing your friends and family members.
Independent use of language:
B1: You understand the main points when clear standard language is used and when it comes to familiar topics such as work, leisure, and family. You can deal with most situations encountered when travelling, for example.
B2: You can understand and read the content of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics. Spontaneous and fluent communication with native speakers is not a problem, so that a conversation can develop without much pressure.
Competent use of language:
C1: You understand extensive and difficult texts without any problems. You can also hold fluent and effortless conversations with native speakers on all topics. The foreign language can be used flexibly in social and professional contexts.
C2: The speaker can do practically anything. You can summarise information from various written and oral sources and present and explain more complex facts. C2 is the highest level you can reach.
This is kind of a universal standard description for how well you can speak a language. It also applies to other languages. Like ,for example, German, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese.
Why do I need a language certificate?
A language certificate sets you apart from other applicants. On the one hand, it proves that you are aware of how important a foreign language is in a globalised world. Secondly, a certificate shows personal commitment, because behind a certificate is work, diligence, and a willingness to learn. In addition, the employer immediately recognises the level of your language skills, which are also proven.
Applications often contain simple phrases such as ‘very good knowledge of English’, but these are only self-assessments. Certificates are neutral, reliable, and meaningful.
Where can language certificates be obtained?
For most language certificates, there are examination centres where the course or exam can be taken. Language courses are offered at universities and colleges, usually every six months. Working people have the opportunity to take part in evening courses to obtain a language certificate. Those interested should enquire in advance where they can obtain the required certificate. The costs for a certificate vary between €30 and €250.
What level is the school-leaving certificate at?
On the one hand, the level depends on when the school-leaving certificate was obtained, and on the other hand, how long the language has been learnt. Anyone who finishes school after year 10 should be at around level B1. Anyone who has completed the Abitur in English should be at language level B2. If your Abitur grade is very good in the language, you may even be in the C1 range.
Language certificates open up career opportunities
A high level of language competence is becoming increasingly important in a globalised world. Employers now expect every applicant to have a higher language level.
