Leben in Deutschland Test vs Citizenship Test: What's the Difference?
The Short Answer: It's the Same Test!
Many people wonder: What's the difference between the Leben in Deutschland Test and the Einbürgerungstest? The answer is simple: There's practically no difference – both tests use the same 310 official BAMF questions.
The only difference is the context in which the test is taken.
Leben in Deutschland Test vs Einbürgerungstest: Comparison
| Feature | Leben in Deutschland Test | Einbürgerungstest |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Completion of integration course | Application for German citizenship |
| Question Pool | 310 BAMF questions | 310 BAMF questions (identical!) |
| Number of Questions | 33 questions | 33 questions |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Passing Score | 17 out of 33 correct (52%) | 17 out of 33 correct (52%) |
| Cost | Included in integration course or 25€ | 25€ |
| Certificate | Valid for citizenship too! | Valid for citizenship |
When Do You Take Which Test?
Leben in Deutschland Test
You take this test when you attend an integration course (Integrationskurs). The test is the official conclusion of the orientation course (part of the integration course) and tests your knowledge about:
- German history and culture
- Germany's political system
- Rights and duties in society
- Values and the Basic Law (Grundgesetz)
Einbürgerungstest (Citizenship Test)
You take this test when you want to apply for German citizenship but haven't attended an integration course. You register directly at a testing center (e.g., VHS).
Important: The Certificate Works for Both!
Here's the best news: If you've already passed the Leben in Deutschland Test, you do NOT need to take the citizenship test again!
Your certificate from the Leben in Deutschland Test is accepted by the naturalization authority as proof. You've already fulfilled all requirements.
The reverse is also true: Anyone who has passed the Einbürgerungstest doesn't need to take the Leben in Deutschland Test anymore.
The 310 BAMF Questions in Detail
Both tests draw from the same question catalog from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF):
- 300 general questions about politics, history, and society
- 10 state-specific questions per federal state (160 total)
In the actual test:
- 30 randomly selected general questions
- 3 questions about your federal state
Frequently Asked Questions
I passed the Leben in Deutschland Test. Do I need to take another test for citizenship?
No! Your certificate serves as proof for naturalization. Keep it safe and present it with your citizenship application.
I didn't take an integration course. Which test do I need to take?
Register for the Einbürgerungstest at a Volkshochschule (VHS) or another authorized testing center. The questions are identical to the Leben in Deutschland Test.
Is there a difference in difficulty?
No. Since both tests use the same 310 questions, the difficulty level is identical.
How long is the certificate valid?
The certificate is valid indefinitely. Even if you passed the test years ago, you can use the certificate for your naturalization.
Can I retake the test if I failed?
Yes! You can retake both tests as many times as needed. There's no waiting period – only the 25€ fee applies again.
Which Name is "More Official"?
Both names are official and used by BAMF:
- "Test Leben in Deutschland" – official name in the context of integration courses
- "Einbürgerungstest" – official name in the context of citizenship
In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably since the content is identical.
Preparation Tips
Whether you're taking the Leben in Deutschland Test or the Einbürgerungstest – the preparation is the same:
- Practice all 310 questions – go through them at least 2-3 times
- Focus on your federal state – learn the 10 state-specific questions
- Use simulation mode – practice under exam conditions
- Understand rather than memorize – answers stick better this way
Conclusion
The Leben in Deutschland Test and the Einbürgerungstest are identical in content. The only difference is the context: One is taken as part of the integration course, the other for the citizenship application.
The most important thing: If you've passed one of the two tests, you don't need to take the other. The certificate is valid for both purposes.
Start your preparation now – with our free practice platform, you'll be well prepared!