A2Exam guideJun 18, 2026 · 6 min read
Goethe A2 Exam Format 2026: Timing, Tasks and Scoring
The official adult A2 structure, including four skill sections, exact timing and the separate written and oral minimum scores.
The Goethe-Zertifikat A2 for adults tests reading, listening, writing and speaking in one complete exam. Reading, listening and writing are the written portion. Speaking is the oral portion.
A2 exam timing
| Section | Time | Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 30 min | 4 parts |
| Listening | 30 min | 4 parts |
| Writing | 30 min | 2 tasks |
| Speaking | about 15 min for two candidates | 3 parts |
The A2 pass rule has three conditions
The maximum is 100 points: 75 written and 25 oral. You need at least 60 points overall, at least 45 of 75 in the written portion and at least 15 of 25 in speaking. If either minimum is missed, the whole exam is failed even when the total appears high enough.
What changes from A1
- Texts and recordings are longer and contain more competing details.
- Writing includes two messages with different levels of formality.
- Speaking asks you to talk about yourself in more detail and plan something with a partner.
- Simple sentences remain useful, but reasons, sequence and clear connections matter more.
Practise the written and oral portions separately as well as together. A balanced 60-plus result is safer than depending on one strong section to compensate for a weak one.