Rostock naturalisation test (BAMF): Everything you need to know

The naturalisation test of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is an important step towards your German citizenship. On this page, we explain how the test is structured, which certificate you will receive and how the naturalisation test differs from the BAMF ‘Living in Germany’ (LiD) test.

What is a naturalisation test?

 

Simply put, the naturalisation test is a test that tests your knowledge of Germany. It serves to demonstrate basic knowledge of German society, the political system of the Federal Republic, its history and its culture. It is a key requirement for naturalisation because it ensures that you have the knowledge you need to find your way around Germany and actively participate in social life.

Important: Participants in integration courses take the Leben-in-Deutschland-Test (LiD) as part of their integration course. You do not need a separate naturalisation test!

How is a naturalisation test structured?

 

The naturalisation test consists of 33 questions. 30 of these questions relate to general topics such as

 

• the German constitution,
• democracy
• the history
• the political system.

 

Three further questions relate specifically to the federal state in which the applicant lives.

All questions are asked in multiple-choice format. For each question, you are given four possible answers.

To pass the test, you must answer at least 17 out of 33 questions correctly - i.e. 51.5 per cent.

What certificate do I receive if I pass the naturalisation test?

 

If you pass the naturalisation test, you will receive a certificate. The official name is ‘Certificate of Naturalisation Test’. It officially confirms that you have passed the test and your level of knowledge.

This certificate is also an important part of your application for German citizenship. Together with other documents, such as proof of German language skills, proof of income and the application for naturalisation, you must submit it to your competent authority. Please note: However, the certificate alone is not sufficient for your naturalisation. It is only one part of the entire naturalisation process.

Differences between the ‘Naturalisation Test’ and the ‘Life in Germany Test’ (LiD)

 

The naturalisation test and the Leben-in-Deutschland-Test (LiD) are confusingly similar. They are identical in terms of content. However, there are important differences in terms of target group and requirements.

 

• The naturalisation test is merely a formal part of the naturalisation procedure. In contrast, a LiD test does not automatically lead to naturalisation. In addition, by taking a LiD test as part of an integration course, you prove that you meet more than just the requirements for naturalisation. This makes it easier for you to integrate and apply for other residence rights.
• In the naturalisation test, at least 17 out of 33 questions must be answered correctly in order to pass. In the Leben-in-Deutschland test (as part of an integration course), the test is considered passed if 15 questions are answered correctly.

Who is authorised to conduct naturalisation tests in Rostock?

 

Naturalisation tests are carried out by approved examination centres. Authorisation is granted by the BAMF, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.

As an official integration course provider and the largest language school in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, inlingua Rostock is one of these authorised institutions. We offer naturalisation tests, but also LiD tests on various dates.

Naturalisation test preparation

The official questions of the naturalisation test are no secret. You can access them free of charge on the BAMF website. All you have to do is call up the interactive question catalogue for the naturalisation test: Click here to take the test.

At the end of this page you will find further tips for your individual preparation.

What happens after the naturalisation test?

 

You will usually receive your results and your certificate (if you have passed) from the BAMF by post after four to six weeks. As the examination centre, we have no influence on this and cannot influence the evaluation of your results. However, if you have not received your results after six to eight weeks, you are welcome to contact us.

What role does the naturalisation test play in your naturalisation?

 

The naturalisation test is a formal part of your naturalisation. Once you have passed it, you can now

 

• submit your naturalisation application (if you have not already done so before the test).
• The authorities will then check the documents you have submitted. Please note that this can take several months.
• Once you have received an answer, you must pay the fees. They are usually 255 euros for adults and 51 euros for each minor child (as of 2024).
• It is quite possible that the authority will invite you to a personal interview to clarify certain information about your application. Don't worry: it's best to prepare properly for this.
• Once all questions have been clarified, the authorities will make a final decision on your naturalisation. If the decision is positive, you are now a German citizen.
• What else is important: In some cases it is necessary for you to give up your previous citizenship. In other cases, it is possible to take on dual citizenship. It is best to clarify this during the initial discussions with the authorities.

My personal tips for your naturalisation test

 

1.

It is best to use the official practice materials. The interactive test from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) not only gives you the best overview of the questions, but also a very good impression of the format and structure.

 

Click here for the online test.

 

2.

Ideally, you should practise for at least 20 to 30 minutes a day. Go through the questions and answers several times to consolidate what you have learnt.

 

3.

It always helps to discuss questions and answers with family, friends and acquaintances. It's easier to learn together! Especially because you develop a better understanding of the content.

 

4.

Why don't you build your own test exam: Set yourself a clock and try to answer a total of 33 questions within 60 minutes. This will help you to get used to the time pressure you will be under in the real exam.

 

I wish you every success in your naturalisation test!

All information without guarantee!