Overview
The Austrian Language Diploma German (ÖSD, Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch) is a family of German-language exams for children, young people and adults. The exams follow the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2, and are described on the official site as internationally recognised.
Levels or stages
ÖSD offers several exam types:
Standard certificates: Zertifikat A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2.
Children and young people: KID A1 and KID A2, plus youth versions (Jugendliche) of B1, B2 and C1. The B1 youth version is for ages 12 and over.
Care and medical professions: B2 and C1 certificates (ZB2 / PMB and ZC1 / PMB) for people who work or plan to work in nursing and medical jobs. The B2 version is for adults aged 16 and over.
Austria-specific: Zertifikat Deutsch Österreich B1, aimed at migrants aged 16 and over, with a youth version.
Business German: Zertifikat C2 Wirtschaftssprache Deutsch.
The official site describes each level in terms of what a candidate can do. A1 covers simple everyday situations, and B1 covers independent language use in everyday and work situations on familiar topics.
Exam pattern
The B1 certificate, the one whose page was read in full, has four modules: reading, listening, writing and speaking. They can be taken separately at different times. If all four are passed at one session, or within one year at the same centre, you receive an overall certificate. Otherwise you receive a certificate for each module you pass. Since 1 January 2024 the B1 exam is offered on paper and as a digital exam. The format of each other exam is on its own page on the official site.
How to apply
The official site has an exam-centre finder and an exam-date finder. Use them to find a centre and date near you.
Which ÖSD level should I take?
Pick the CEFR level you need, for example B1 for many residence purposes or B2 and C1 for study. Check the requirement of the institution or authority asking for the certificate.