If you’re planning your future in Germany, you’ve probably come across the Leben in Deutschland (LiD) test and the Einbürgerungstest. At first glance, they seem almost identical—and in many ways, they are.
Both tests assess your knowledge of Germany’s legal system, society, history, and values. However, they serve different purposes and are often required at different stages of your journey in Germany.
The important difference is why you’re taking the test. One is commonly associated with permanent residence, while the other is used for German citizenship.
Here’s what you need to know before booking your test.
The Leben in Deutschland tests your knowledge of the legal and social order and the living conditions in Germany
Integration Course Certificate, Niederlassungserlaubnis, and, in some cases, citizenship applications
The citizenship test demonstrates your understanding of Germany’s
legal and social order when applying for German citizenship.
Niederlassungserlaubnis in many cases, and citizenship applicationsGerman citizenship applications
The Leben in Deutschland test and the Einbürgerungstest use the same official BAMF question catalogue and follow the same format: 33 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes to complete the test, and at least 17 correct answers needed to pass.
There is, however, a subtle difference in the selection of questions. While both tests draw from the same pool of 300 general questions and 10 state-specific questions, test providers often explain that the Leben in Deutschland test and the Einbürgerungstest use different question sets from within that catalogue.
Because applicants are not told in advance which questions will appear, the safest approach is to study the entire question catalogue rather than focusing on specific topics.
In short: same question pool, same format, same pass mark — but potentially different question selections depending on which test you take.
You can contact your local foreigners office (Ausländerbehörde) or register at the local VHS.
The official BAMF question catalogue contains 310 possible questions and is used for both the Leben in Deutschland (LiD) test and the Einbürgerungstest. The catalogue includes:
Although the two tests use the same question catalogue, you will not receive the same questions. Each test draws a different selection from the official pool, and there is no way of knowing in advance which questions will appear on your test day. For this reason, it is recommended that you study the entire catalogue rather than focusing on specific questions or topics.
Many Volkshochschulen (VHS) offer an Orientierungskurs (Orientation Course), which prepares participants for the “Test zum Orientierungskurs Leben in Deutschland” examination. This test forms part of the Integration Course and is often required when applying for a Niederlassungserlaubnis (permanent residence permit).
There is no requirement to attend a course before taking the Einbürgerungstest. However, many applicants find it helpful to attend a preparation course. If your local VHS offers an Orientierungskurs or Leben in Deutschland preparation course, it can be an excellent way to prepare, as both tests are based on the same official question catalogue.
Whether you are preparing for the Leben in Deutschland test or the Einbürgerungstest, learning the full BAMF question catalogue will ensure you are ready for either exam
During the exam, you will receive a test booklet with 33 questions. You have 60 minutes to answer the questions. Each question requires you to choose the correct answer from four possible answers.
If you answer at least 17 questions correctly, you have passed the test. You will then receive a certificate of your personal test result from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.
30 questions belong to the subject areas “Life in a Democracy”, “History and Responsibility” as well as “People and Society”.
Three test questions are asked about the federal state in which you are registered as your primary residence for example Baden-Württemberg
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