Now that you understand what the Einbürgerungstest is (from our previous article), let's focus on how to prepare effectively for success. With the right approach and resources, you can confidently pass this important step toward German citizenship.
Understanding What You're Up Against
Before diving into preparation, let's clarify what you need to master:
- Test Format: 33 multiple-choice questions (30 general + 3 state-specific)
- Time Limit: 60 minutes
- Passing Score: 17 correct answers (about 52%)
- Question Pool: 310 general questions + 10 state-specific questions
- Language: Test questions are in German
Comprehensive Preparation Strategy
Step 1: Access Official Materials
The most important resource is the official question catalog from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF):
- BAMF Official Question Catalog: Contains all 310 general questions and answers, plus state-specific questions
- Where to find it:
-
🔗 BAMF Website (Official Source)
- Local integration course providers
- Bookstores (often available as published study guides)
Pro Tip: The questions on your actual test will be taken directly from this catalog, so learning these questions and answers is your most direct path to success.
Step 2: Choose Your Study Tools
Depending on your learning style, several effective study options are available:
Digital Tools:
Print Materials:
- 🔗 Official BAMF Question Catalog (PDF)
- Flashcards: Create your own or purchase pre-made sets
- Study Guides: Available at bookstores or libraries
Interactive Learning:
- Integration Courses: Many offer test preparation modules
- Community College Courses: Volkshochschulen (VHS) frequently offer preparation courses
- Study Groups: Join or form a group with others preparing for the test
Step 3: Create a Structured Study Plan
For most applicants, 2-4 weeks of regular study is sufficient to prepare for the test:
Sample Study Schedule:
Week 1-2: Learn the Basics
- Study democracy and fundamental rights questions (approximately 100 questions)
- Review history and responsibility questions (approximately 60 questions)
- 30-60 minutes daily study time
Week 2-3: Expand Knowledge
- Study people and society questions (approximately 150 questions)
- Focus on areas you find challenging
- Begin working with practice tests
- 30-60 minutes daily study time
Week 3-4: Master State-Specific Questions and Final Review
- Study the 10 questions specific to your federal state
- Take full practice tests under timed conditions
- Review any questions you consistently miss
- 30-60 minutes daily study time
Step 4: Focus on the Bundesland Questions
The 3 state-specific questions on your test will be drawn from a pool of 10 questions for your federal state:
- Find Your State Questions: Select your Bundesland from the dropdown menu on the BAMF website
- Study All 10: Since you won't know which 3 will appear, learn all 10 questions for your state
- Pay Attention to Details: These often include questions about your state's capital, coat of arms, government officials, or significant landmarks
Example: If you live in Bavaria (Bayern), you might be asked about the state capital (Munich), Minister President, or specific aspects of the Bavarian constitution.
Step 5: Practice Test-Taking Strategies
Maximize your chances of success with these test-taking strategies:
- Read Carefully: Sometimes questions are phrased in ways that require careful reading
- Process of Elimination: If unsure, eliminate obviously incorrect answers first
- Flag Difficult Questions: Answer the easy ones first, then return to harder questions
- Manage Your Time: With 60 minutes for 33 questions, you have approximately 1.8 minutes per question
- No Guessing Penalty: Always answer every question, even if you have to guess
Step 6: Verify Your Knowledge with Full Practice Tests
Before your official test date:
- Take Multiple Practice Tests: Aim to score at least 25+ correct answers consistently
- Time Yourself: Practice under the actual 60-minute time constraint
- Review Mistakes: Pay special attention to questions you answer incorrectly
- Focus on Weak Areas: Dedicate extra study time to topics where you struggle
Additional Tips for Success
Language Preparation:
While the Einbürgerungstest assesses your civic knowledge rather than language skills, the questions are in German:
- Vocabulary Familiarization: Learn key terms related to politics, history, and society
- Question Patterns: Familiarize yourself with how questions are typically phrased
- Practice Reading: Improve your German reading comprehension with news articles on politics and society
Test Day Preparation:
- Required Documents: Bring your identity document (passport or residence permit)
- Arrive Early: Give yourself time to find the test center and settle in
- Writing Implements: Bring a blue or black pen (for paper-based tests)
- Stay Calm: Remember that the pass rate for the test is very high (over 90%)
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Too many questions to memorize | Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization |
| Confusing similar answers | Pay attention to subtle differences in answer options |
| Language difficulties | Study with a bilingual resource if available |
| State-specific questions | Dedicate special attention to these 10 questions |
| Test anxiety | Take many practice tests to build confidence |
Have you begun preparing for the Einbürgerungstest? Contact us with your experiences or questions!
