What is tested in the Goethe B2 writing exam?

The Goethe-Zertifikat B2 writing exam (75 minutes) consists of two tasks: in Task 1 you write a forum post on a current social topic (approx. 150–200 words). In Task 2 you write a formal message in a professional context (approx. 80–100 words). Both texts are assessed by two independent raters according to four criteria.

How many points can I get for the B2 writing exam?

In the Goethe B2 writing module a maximum of 30 points is available (15 for Task 1). Your text is assessed by two independent raters — the average gives your final grade. You need to score at least 60 out of 100 points in the writing module to pass it.

What assessment criteria apply in the Goethe B2 writing exam?

The Goethe B2 writing is assessed on four criteria: (1) Aufgabenerfüllung — all content points fully addressed; (2) Kohärenz — logical structure and fluent text flow; (3) Wortschatz — broad, differentiated vocabulary appropriate to B2 level; (4) Strukturen — correct and varied grammatical structures (passive, Konjunktiv, complex subordinate clauses).

B2 · Upper Intermediate

Goethe B2 Writing Exam —
forum posts and formal texts

The Goethe-Zertifikat B2 shows that you understand complex texts and can express yourself clearly and in detail. In the writing section you need to produce persuasive opinion texts and professional communications.

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Exam Overview

Goethe-Zertifikat B2 Writing Practice — AI Feedback

GoetheCoach

Writing Duration

75 minutes

Tasks

2 (forum post + formal)

Assessment

2 independent raters

Modular

Yes — can be taken separately

Maximum Points

30 points

Task Format in B2 Writing

The B2 writing module consists of two clearly defined tasks. Both must be completed within 75 minutes. Two independent raters assess each text according to the same four criteria.

Assessment Criteria in B2 Writing

Task Fulfilment (Aufgabenerfüllung):

Were all content points fully addressed? Was the correct text type (forum / formal message) used? Is the register appropriate?

Common Topics in B2 Writing

Work and economy: working from home, 4-day week, minimum wage, automation
Environment and sustainability: climate protection, plastic bans, public transport
Society: social media, pensions, migration, equal rights
Education: school reform, digital education, tuition fees, home schooling
Health: compulsory vaccination, work-life balance, healthcare system
Technology: AI in the workplace, data protection, digitalisation of daily life

Tips for the B2 Writing Exam

Structure your forum post clearly. Introduction (topic and core position) → Main body (arguments + counter-arguments) → Conclusion (assessment / personal opinion). Without structure you lose points on coherence.
Learn opinion phrases for B2. "Aus meiner Sicht …", "Es lässt sich nicht leugnen, dass …", "Einerseits … andererseits …", "Ich bin der Überzeugung, dass …" — these phrases signal B2 level.
Use Konjunktiv II for speculation. "Das könnte dazu führen, dass …" / "Es wäre denkbar, dass …" — a reliable signal of higher language level.
Practise Task 2 separately. Formal messages have fixed structures. Learn the most important expressions for enquiries, complaints and confirmations.
Write under time pressure. 75 minutes for two texts is tight. Plan: 5 minutes per task, 30 minutes writing Task 1, 20 minutes Task 2, 10 minutes revision.

Master B2 Writing

Practise realistic forum posts and formal texts — with AI feedback on all four assessment criteria.

Goethe B2 Writing Exam —forum posts and formal texts