Citizenship test: result and certificate
After the test comes the wait: tests are not marked at the test centre but centrally by the BAMF. The result arrives as a certificate by post.
- Pass mark
- 17 out of 33 correct
- Analysis
- centrally by the BAMF
- Result
- certificate by post
- Not passed
- can be retaken
How long does marking take?
The test centre sends the sheets to the BAMF, where they are marked in a standardised procedure. The BAMF naturalisation page shows how far it has got: on 12.10.2026 it was marking tests taken up to 22.07.2026. If you take the test today, expect to wait months rather than days — check the current status there.
What the certificate says
The certificate shows your total score and one of two ratings: “erfolgreich teilgenommen” (passed, from 17 correct answers) or “teilgenommen” (took part). It is signed and sealed. You use it to prove your civic knowledge to the naturalisation authority.
The supervisors at the test centre may not tell you anything about your result, and you will not get the completed test sheet back later either.
Did not pass?
No problem: the test can be retaken — with a new registration and another 25 euros. Use the time to practise the questions you are not yet sure of. The analysis shows you which topics they are.
Frequently asked questions about the result
When will I get my citizenship test result?
The BAMF marks the tests centrally and sends the certificate by post. On its website the BAMF states up to which test date it has marked — on 12.10.2026 it was tests taken up to 22.07.2026. So expect several weeks to months.
Will I find out my result right after the test?
No. The supervisors at the test centre may not give any information about your performance. Only the BAMF certificate is valid.
What does the certificate say?
Your total score and the rating: “erfolgreich teilgenommen” (at least 17 out of 33) or “teilgenommen”.
What do I do if I did not pass?
You can retake the test. To do so, register again with a test centre and pay the 25 euro fee once more.
I have lost my certificate. What now?
The BAMF only issues a new certificate if it receives the original or a written declaration of loss.
Does the “Leben in Deutschland” test count too?
Yes, if you scored at least 17 out of 33 points. With the “Zertifikat Integrationskurs” you then prove the knowledge required for naturalisation.
Weiter: Anmeldung, Termin und Kosten · So läuft der Test ab
Sources
- BAMF: Einbürgerung in Deutschland (page dated 12.10.2026, in German)
- BAMF: Prüfungsordnung für den Einbürgerungstest (examination rules, as of 28 July 2008, in German)
Summary by this website, not legal advice. Only information from your naturalisation authority, the test centre and the BAMF is binding.