I've been playing around with various online tests to try to determine where my haphazard approach to learning German has left me, as I knuckle down and search for a more rigourous course.
I get widely differing results depending on the test. (One even put me at C1 - which is, frankly, laughable.) I'm guessing I'm a B1 at best, but I'd be curious to know which online test you all have taken, and did the online test results correspond with any 'real' tests you have taken?
If you got C1, then your level is C1, which makes sense since you have been living here for a while and well integrated. It's just in your imagination that you still think your level is B1 (apprehension? I don't know). If you travel to a non-German speaking country: e.g. Czech Republic, Poland, chances are that you won't understand a word of their language and then you will realize how good your German actually is when you are in D.A.CH countries... When I was younger, I had to take the TOEFL test: in my English class, we did lots of tests for practice, I was often getting less better grades. My American teacher always told me that my English level is good but what I lack is my ability to keep my focus and concentration during the tests, ultimately impacting my grades... I don't have much time to elaborate, but you got what I mean. Never underestimate yourself .
Could you please give us the links of these online tests?
If you go to the Geothe website you can apply to take a test. I did this, it doesn't include an oral test though but is done online. http://www.goethe.de/lrn/prj/fer/kun/enindex.htm . They contact you with the result.
There is also a placement test on the Deutsche Welle website under 'Learn German'.
No, looking at the CEFR levels, I'm guessing that I really am only about B1.
I'm OK at the day to day functional stuff, but I'm better at the passive than the active. I read and understand German with far more facility than I write or speak it.
Problem is, most online placement tests are only multiple choice. I'm one of those people who can pass a multiple choice test even when I don't know the subject well, that's just how my brain is wired. But ask me an open-ended or essay question and my true level of knowledge (or in this case lack thereof) quickly becomes apparent.
I'll look into the Goethe and DW tests, GG, thanks for the tip.
I'm really just looking to get an idea of where I stand as I research language schools and courses, with a view to eventually getting a CEFR certificate.
Well, since this thread has been resurrected, another question for those considering naturalization in SZ, or who have gone through the process:
I've been told (at the Gemeinde, so...) that one needs to take the language test from the BBZ, in either Pfäffikon or Goldau. Also, the 'Grundkenntnisse der gesellschaftlichen und politischen Verhältnisse in der Schweiz' test needs to be taken at either of these centers.
Have any of you tried to submit a CEFR certificate issued by another organization? If so, was it accepted?
you can go to migro school and ask for a test i think it will cost you 18 chf and you will get an answer . it takes and hour and is evaluated and you will get the result in few days.