fide test

General Information

Level: A1 to B1

In the fide test, you have to complete tasks at two different language levels: A1-A2 or A2-B1. Depending on how many points you achieve and whether you achieve the required minimum number of points, you will receive a certificate establishing your respective language level. This result will be entered into your fide Language Passport.

Target group: Adults (16 years and older)

Among other things, recognized in Switzerland as proof of language proficiency for:

• A residency permit for family reunification (A1 oral) 
• A settlement permit (at least: A2 oral, A1 written)
• Naturalization (at least: B1 oral, A2 written) 

Certain cantons may also require a higher language level. An overview of the authorities in your canton or place of residence that can answer questions regarding naturalization and settlement and residency permits may be found on the fide website.

If your spoken and written skills are already at the B1 level or higher, you may opt to submit a fide dossier instead of taking the fide test. This includes a shortened oral and written B1 language test.

Switzerland recognizes various language certificates. If you already have proof of your German language competency, inquire with the responsible authorities about whether your certificate may be recognized.

Testing locations: In German-speaking Swiss cantons and a few other cantons

• fide: Testing institutions

Exam fees in Switzerland (as of 2023):

• Oral test only: 170 Swiss francs
• Written test only: 120 Swiss francs 
• Oral and written test: 250 Swiss francs 

The written and oral tests may be taken independently of each other.

Examination structure

Type of examination: 

• Paper-based

Examination sections and duration: 

Oral test:

• Speaking and comprehension (40 minutes, individual test)

Written test: 

• Reading and writing (60 minutes)  

The oral and written tests each span two language levels: either A1-A2 or A2-B1. The “speaking” section of the test always starts at the A2 level. Test takers then receive a recommendation from evaluators as to whether the oral test should continue at the A1-A2 or A2-B1 level. An assessment in the form of a short placement test and a recommendation from test evaluators also occur before the written test.

It is possible to take the oral and written tests on different days. There is no preparation time before the oral test.

Accessible examinations: 

• Examinations for individuals with disabilities are available.
• Modified examination conditions are possible.
• Additional information is available from the fide Secretariat.

Information about examination results

To pass the examination:

A1-A2 Level:

Oral test: 

• At least 26 percent of 44 points (result: A1)
• At least 65 percent of 44 points (result: A2)

The spoken portion of the test accounts for two-thirds of the points, and the comprehension portion for one-third.  

Written test: 

• At least 39 percent of 48 points (result: A1) 
• At least 76 percent of 48 points (at least: A2)  

No result will be issued in the fide test A1-A2 if the A1 level is not achieved. 

A2-B1 Level: 

Oral test: 

• At least 43 percent of 60 points (result: A2) 
• At least 79 percent of 60 points (result: B1)

The spoken portion of the test accounts for two-thirds of the points, and the comprehension portion for one-third. 

Written test: 

• At least 39 percent of 59 points (result: A2)
• At least 73 percent of 59 points (result: B1) 

No result will be issued in the fide test A2-B1 if the A2 level is not achieved.

Receiving test results:

• About four weeks after the test

Language Passport validity: unlimited

Retaking the test:

• You can retake the oral and written test independently of each other.
• You can retake the test as many times as you like. 

Provider information and practice materials 

• fide: Information on the test and practice fide tests

Additional tips

Thoroughly review the information available on the fide website. You can, for example, register for a free “speaking” section practice test.

Information about this test is also available in German under the menu selection “Language."