B2 Placement Test

Students applying to study at the HWR, both from within and outside Germany, must demonstrate that they have achieved a B2 level in the English language according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The CEFR specifies the following criteria for Level B2:
“[The language user] can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options”. (see: Common European Frame of References for Languages)
The B2 placement test offered at the HWR by Pangea Languages tests your ability to fulfil these criteria to the required standard.

Test Components
The test consists of: 1. a written exam which tests the examinee’s reading and writing skills; and 2. an oral exam in which the level of the examinee’s spoken English is tested.
Candidates have one hour to complete the tasks on the written paper. The oral examination takes 15-20 minutes.
The written exam consists of a reading text accompanied by comprehension questions which test the candidate’s understanding of the content of the text, and a question on a topic on which the candidate is required to produce a well structured, clearly written answer consisting of approximately 300 words.
In the oral test the candidate will be given 15 minutes before the test to read a text on a given topic, and then invited to discuss the topic for a further 15 minutes with an examiner.
In both written and oral components candidates are graded on their ability to produce clear, coherent answers that satisfactorily meet the requirements outlined in the CEFR (see above).

Sample exam
Sample exam questions are available on request under info@pangea-languages.de

Examination Centre
The test will be held at the HWR at a time, date and room to be determined. You will be informed of the exact location, date and time of the test upon your application to do the test.

Cost
The examination fee is € 99,-. This fee includes the examination and grading of both written and oral components as well as the issuing of a certificate to successful candidates, confirming that they have achieved the required standard at B2 level.

Application procedure
Complete this application form and email it to the following address: info@pangea-languages.de or post to Pangea Languages, Körtestr. 20, 10967 Berlin.