Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the Test Leben in Deutschland, the Einbürgerungstest, and our study app.
About the Test
What is the "Test Leben in Deutschland" and what is the Einbürgerungstest?
Both are identical multiple-choice tests administered by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). The "Test Leben in Deutschland" (Test Life in Germany) is for people with a settlement permit who want to demonstrate knowledge of Germany's legal and social system. The Einbürgerungstest (naturalization test) is for people applying for German citizenship. The questions, procedure, and scoring are the same for both tests.
Who needs to take the test?
The test is required for people applying for German citizenship (Einbürgerungstest) or seeking to fulfill the requirements for a settlement permit (Test Leben in Deutschland). Exceptions include people with a German school diploma, minors, and people who cannot take the test due to illness or disability.
How many questions are on the test and how long does it take?
The test consists of 33 questions: 30 general questions from the overall catalog and 3 questions about the federal state (Bundesland) where you are registered. You have 60 minutes to complete the test. Each question has four answer options, with exactly one correct answer.
How many correct answers do I need to pass?
For the Einbürgerungstest, you need at least 17 out of 33 correct answers (about 51%). For the Test Leben in Deutschland, 17 correct answers also demonstrate "sufficient knowledge." With 15 or more correct answers, you receive a certificate of successful completion.
What topics does the test cover?
The question catalog covers three subject areas: "Politics in Democracy" (e.g., fundamental rights, constitutional principles, electoral system), "History and Responsibility" (e.g., National Socialism, German division, reunification), and "People and Society" (e.g., freedom of religion, gender equality, education). Additionally, there are 10 questions about your federal state.
How many questions are in the total question pool?
The official BAMF question catalog contains a total of 460 questions: 300 general questions that apply to everyone, plus 10 state-specific questions per federal state (16 × 10 = 160). Your 33 test questions are randomly selected from the 300 general questions and the 10 questions for your state.
Where and how can I register for the test?
The test is offered at adult education centers (Volkshochschulen) and other authorized test centers throughout Germany. You can register directly at a test center near you. A list is available on the BAMF website. After registration, you will receive an invitation with the date, time, and location.
How much does the test cost?
The test fee is 25 euros. For participants in an integration course with BAMF authorization, the first attempt is usually free. External participants and those retaking the test pay the 25 euro fee upon registration. The fee is not refunded in case of failure or non-attendance.
Can I retake the test if I fail?
Yes, you can retake the test as many times as you need. Each attempt draws new questions randomly from the catalog. The fee of 25 euros applies each time.
What language is the test in?
The test is conducted exclusively in German. No translations or aids are allowed during the test. This is why it's important to understand the questions and answers in German — our app helps you with this by providing optional translations as a study aid.
When will I receive my test results?
Results are typically sent to you by mail within four to six weeks. You will receive a certificate stating the number of correct answers and whether you passed.
About the App
What makes this app different from other study apps?
The app uses an intelligent study algorithm that adapts to your progress. Incorrectly answered questions are repeated more frequently, while already learned questions appear less often. The app also offers AI-powered translation support and realistic practice tests that simulate the actual exam.
Is the app free?
Yes, the app is completely free and contains no ads. All 460 official questions, the study algorithm, progress tracking, and practice tests are available without any restrictions.
How do I select my state (Bundesland)?
Go to Settings and tap on your current state. You'll see a list of all 16 states. Select your state to get the 10 state-specific questions that will appear on your test.
How does the study algorithm work?
The app adapts as you progress. Early on it mostly introduces new questions while bringing missed ones back quickly. Later it shifts toward weak questions and refresh reviews of learned questions so you spend more time on what is most likely to help you pass the test.
Do I need an internet connection?
No. All 460 questions and the core study features work completely offline. The only feature that requires internet is the optional translation feature.
How does the translation feature work?
Tap the translate button while studying a question to see it translated into your preferred language. Translations are powered by AI and are intended as a study aid. The original German text is always available.
Are the questions in the app up to date?
The app includes all 460 questions from the official BAMF question catalog (300 general + 10 per state). We update the question catalog when BAMF publishes changes.
What does the practice test look like?
The practice test simulates the real "Test Leben in Deutschland": 33 questions (30 general + 3 from your state) with a 60-minute time limit. You need at least 17 correct answers to pass, just like the real test.
What devices can I use the app on?
The app is currently available for iOS (iPhone and iPad) on the App Store. An Android version is in development and will be available on Google Play soon.