Preparation guide
How to prepare for the Einbürgerungstest
Understand the test, choose your Bundesland and study effectively while your German is still improving.
Information checked:
Prepare with the 300 general questions and the ten questions for the federal state where you live. Study by theme, understand the correct answers and revisit mistakes. The guide and study library are available without an account.
What does the test look like?
The Einbürgerungstest has 33 multiple-choice questions: 30 general questions and three about your Bundesland. Each has four options and one correct answer. You have 60 minutes and need at least 17 correct answers to pass.
Einbürgerungstest and Leben in Deutschland: what is the difference?
Both use the same question catalogue. The Einbürgerungstest demonstrates civic knowledge for naturalisation; Leben in Deutschland is also the orientation-course final test. For the latter, 15 correct answers pass the orientation-course test, but at least 17 are needed to demonstrate civic knowledge for naturalisation. Neither replaces a German-language exam or proves all citizenship requirements. If you already have a certificate, check its suitability with your authority.
Which questions should I study for my Bundesland?
Study the 300 general questions and your state's ten questions, not all 160 state questions. Choose where you live: Potsdam is in Brandenburg, whereas Berlin is a separate Land. Signed-in learners can set their state in My account; guests choose it for their session. Learn the actual flags, coats of arms and map locations, not answer positions. If you move, confirm the right state with your exam centre.
How can I study while my German is still improving?
Read the German first, use the translation to understand it, then return to the original. Learn recurring words such as Grundgesetz, wählen, dürfen and nicht. Negatives can reverse a question's meaning. Listen, read aloud and explain the answer in your own words. The official questions are in German; app translations and audio are study aids, not guaranteed exam accommodations.
A practical study routine
Work through one theme at a time in short daily sessions. Read explanations and revisit mistakes on another day. Then try mixed 33-question sets; occasionally hide translations and set your own 60-minute timer. Aim for a comfortable margin above the pass mark across several attempts. A free account saves progress across devices; guest progress is not stored.
Before your exam day
Register with an authorised examination centre and follow its current instructions on dates, fees and documents. Bring the required photo ID and a permitted black or blue ballpoint pen. Read the marking and correction instructions. Check current officeholders and changing facts against official sources, and consult the latest BAMF catalogue.