German B2 Level: Resources and Preparation

You’re entering an advanced intermediate phase when you reach the German B2 level. By this point, you’ve likely established a good foundation in German, but the complexity of vocabulary, grammar, and real-world communication is significantly higher. You may be wondering: How can I refine my skills? What resources are best for advanced intermediate learners? How do I prepare for the B2 exam, and where can I take it?

If any of the following statements describe your goals or current abilities, the German B2 level may be the right target for you:

• I can understand the main points of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics.
• I can interact with native speakers with a degree of fluency that allows for spontaneous conversation.
• I want to prepare for a job or academic program in a German-speaking environment.
• I plan to take a German B2 exam to meet work or residency requirements.

The B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is designed for advanced intermediate learners. Once you pass the B2 level, you have an advanced understanding of the German language. At this level, you should be able to communicate clearly and in detail on various subjects, write about complex topics, and follow discussions on both familiar and less familiar subjects.

If you decide to take a B2 exam, such as the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 or TelcDeutsch B2, you should use specialized resources like advanced textbooks, intensive grammar practice, conversation-based exercises, and authentic media.

B2 Exam Requirements and Key Skills

The B2 exam assesses your comprehension, communication, reading, and writing abilities. Let’s examine each of these areas in more detail and learn how to best prepare.

1) Communicate Complex Ideas

At the B2 level, you are expected to handle more complex conversations in both formal and informal settings. You should be comfortable discussing work, education, current events, and debates on social issues. You’ll need to express your opinions, give arguments for and against, and describe events in detail. Practicing these conversation skills is critical for the oral part of the exam, so working with a speaking partner is highly recommended.

This video will show you different ways to effectively communicate your opinion:

2) Understanding Advanced Conversations and Media

Understanding faster and more complex spoken German is a key component of the B2 level. You should be able to follow longer discussions on a wide range of topics, even if they include idiomatic expressions or unfamiliar vocabulary. This skill will help you understand native speakers, news broadcasts, and discussions on issues such as politics, technology, or science.

3) Reading and Analyzing Complex Texts

At the B2 level, you’ll come across complex written materials, including articles, essays, and official documents. You should be able to identify main ideas and supporting arguments and infer meaning from context.

4) Writing Detailed Texts

You should be able to produce clear, well-structured texts on a variety of topics. The types of texts you’ll need to write include opinion essays, formal emails, or detailed reports. You need to feel confident presenting arguments and structuring your thoughts logically in written form.

If you’re preparing for the TELC B2 German exam and need to learn how to write formal complaints for the written section, this video is a must-watch!

Where to Take the B2 Exam

The German B2 exam is widely recognized and available at various global institutions:

• Goethe-Institut: Known for its standardized tests, the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 is recognized internationally and can be taken at Goethe-Institut locations worldwide.
• telc GmbH: telc offers the B2 exam through authorized centers and provides a recognized qualification throughout Europe.
• ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch): If you plan to work or live in Austria, the ÖSD B2 exam is particularly valuable as it is widely accepted in Austria.

Recommended Resources for Preparing for the B2 Exam

There is a wide range of resources available online to help you prepare for any B2 German exam. We recommend the following trusted tools and study materials to support your success.

lingoni German

lingoni’s B2-level content focuses on the grammatical structures and vocabulary needed to navigate more advanced scenarios in German. With interactive exercises, worksheets, vocabulary training, and pronunciation practice, lingoni helps learners develop the skills necessary to perform well on the B2 exam.

Goethe-Institut Online Courses

For learners at the B2 level, the Goethe-Institut offers online courses focused on improving fluency, complex grammar, and comprehension of detailed texts. Options include guided group courses, individual lessons with teacher feedback, and self-study for flexible pacing. There are also specialized modules for speaking practice and exam preparation, tailored to advancing intermediate skills toward advanced proficiency.

Deutsche Welle (DW)

B2 learners can find slowly spoken German news on the Deutsche Welle website as well as videos that come with exercises for listening comprehension.

Books and Textbooks

Textbooks like Aspekte neu B2 and Sicher! aktuell B2 is highly recommended for B2-level learners. It contains thematic vocabulary, reading comprehension exercises, listening tasks, and grammar explanations aligned with B2 requirements. Both books offer audio CDs and online resources to enhance listening and reading comprehension.

Apps for Vocabulary Retention

Apps like Anki for vocabulary retention and Quizlet for flashcard-based review allow you to practice B2-level German vocabulary and phrases in a flexible and customizable way.

YouTube Channels for Advanced German Learners

For advanced German learners, several YouTube channels offer rich, immersive content that brings authentic German into your studies. Easy German provides engaging street interviews in Berlin, giving you exposure to conversational German and cultural insights. Deutsch mit Marija dives into advanced grammar topics for levels B1 to C2 and offers plenty of tips for the official TELC exams, perfect for refining complex language skills. Deutsche Welle and Tagesschau deliver news in natural German, while Logo!, a news channel initially designed for younger audiences, offers clear, concise reports that remain challenging yet accessible. These channels strengthen listening comprehension and immerse you in real-world language and nuanced discussions of German culture.

Here’s our list of top YouTubers for levels A1 to C2:

10 Best YouTube Channels to Learn German in 2024

Online Practice Platforms

To develop your conversational abilities, you can practice with qualified teachers speakers through online platforms like italki, preply, verbling, or lingoda. They can help you improve your spoken fluency, pronunciation, and overall conversational skills in German. Practicing with a tutor helps you receive personalized feedback and real-time correction.

Consider finding a language exchange partner – it’s a great option if you prefer a more natural, conversational approach and want to save money compared to a classroom setting. Popular websites are HelloTalk, Tandem, Speaky, or reddit.

Conclusion

Reaching the German B2 level will give you the tools to reach conversational fluency, analyze complex texts and express detailed ideas in writing. By using the resources and recommendations above, especially those focused on advanced grammar, listening comprehension, and practice with native speakers, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the B2 exam and communicate confidently in a variety of real-world situations. Good luck with your studies, and Viel Erfolg!