Everything you need to learn German at level C1 and pass the exam – in one free PDF of 154 pages. For Goethe-Zertifikat C1, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, ÖSD C1, TestDaF and DSH.
- The C1 exams explained + an 8-week study plan
- 8 complete units: vocabulary, phrases, grammar, dialogues, memory tricks, flashcards and quizzes
- Grammar reference with a 20-question test
- Exam strategies for Hören, Lesen, Schreiben and Sprechen
- Writing and speaking workshops with model answers
- A full C1 mock exam + answer keys for everything
No sign-up needed · printable · QR codes link to the free audio
What is inside the German C1 course PDF
| Part 1 – The exams | Formats of the exams at this level, which exam to choose, exam-day checklist, 8-week plan |
|---|---|
| Part 2 – Units 1–8 | 1. Academic German & nominal style · 2. Argumentation & connectors · 3. Leadership & formal register · 4. Science & participial attributes · 5. Politics & reported speech · 6. Culture, media & nuance · 7. Language, identity & idioms · 8. Globalisation & the future |
| Part 3 – Grammar reference | All core grammar of the level with tables, examples, typical mistakes and a test |
| Part 4 – Exam skills | Step-by-step strategies and practice for listening, reading, writing and speaking |
| Part 5 – Workshops | Exam-style writing and speaking tasks with model answers and useful phrases |
| Part 6 – Mock exam | A complete practice exam with answer key and transcripts |
Who this PDF is for
- Learners who want to reach level C1 step by step, at home and for free
- Candidates preparing for the C1 exams who need a clear plan and realistic practice
- Teachers who want printable units, tests and model answers for their classes
Combine it with the German C1 vocabulary list, the C1 mock exams and the German C1 course.
Download the free C1 PDF (974.0 KB) ↓
Course PDFs for every level
Frequently asked questions
Is the German C1 course PDF really free?
Yes. You can download, print and use it for your own learning without registering. Please do not sell it or remove the source.
Which exams does it prepare me for?
It follows the CEFR level C1 and prepares you for Goethe-Zertifikat C1, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, ÖSD C1, TestDaF and DSH. The book explains how each exam works and trains every part: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
Where is the audio for the listening tasks?
Every page has a QR code. The listening texts with natural German voices, the interactive quizzes and 10 more mock exams for the level are free on howtolearngerman.online.
How long does it take to work through the book?
The built-in 8-week plan shows what to do each week. If you study about one hour a day, you can finish the book and the mock exam in about two months.
Is this an official Goethe, telc or ÖSD book?
No. It is independent learning material written by HowToLearnGerman.online, modelled on the publicly documented exam formats. Always check the official exam provider’s website before you register.
Pass your German exam faster – become a member
The PDF is a great start. But learners who practise with real exam tasks, hear the audio and track their progress are far better prepared on exam day. As a member you get everything in one place.
| PDF only | Free member | Premium (coming soon) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word lists & course PDFs | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 60 mock exams with natural audio and timer | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Exam simulator with automatic scoring | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| 48 interactive lessons with flashcards & quizzes | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Your results saved in your personal dashboard | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Full A1–C2 courses for Goethe, telc and ÖSD | – | – | ✓ |
| New mock exams every month | – | – | ✓ |
| Feedback on your writing and speaking | – | – | ✓ |
| Price | free | €0 | €9.99 / month (planned) |
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