Table of contents:

1. Why take the Polish telc exam?
2. Structure of the telc exam in Polish as a foreign language
3. Oral part of the telc exam
4. How many points must be obtained at the exam in order to receive a telc certificate?
5. Who can take the Polish telc exam?
6. Where can I take the Polish telc exam?
7. Preparation for the Polish telc exam – what is worth paying attention to?

Compared to the state certification exam, the telc Polish language exam is often considered simpler and more accessible. It is recognized by educational institutions (numerous universities and colleges), employers, and international organizations, so if you’re thinking about a scholarship, an exchange program (such as Erasmus), or formal confirmation of your language skills, telc may be an ideal choice.

The telc B1/B2 exam is a two-level exam, which means that it tests skills at both the lower intermediate level – B1 and the higher intermediate level – B2 according to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Depending on the result, a candidate can be certified at B1 or B2 level.

The telc exam consists of a written and an oral part. The written part lasts 115 minutes and is divided into modules that allow a comprehensive assessment of candidates’ skills:

1. Listening comprehension – recording tasks are designed to assess the ability to understand spoken language. Candidates answer questions, fill in the gaps or choose the correct answers by listening to the recordings once or twice.
2. Reading comprehension – this section of the exam tests reading comprehension, which can include both short and more extended passages. The tasks test the ability to understand the text in general and to catch detailed information.
3. Elements of language – a module that tests grammatical knowledge, in which candidates indicate correct grammatical forms or create them. These tasks usually take the form of short, coherent texts, so you can easily spot grammatical errors.
4. Writing – in this part of the exam, candidates choose one of two available topics and write a short text. This tests the ability to express thoughts in written form, especially in the context of everyday situations, and also assesses the consistency and clarity of the message.

After a short break after the written part, candidates take an oral exam that tests their ability to communicate in Polish in everyday situations. The oral part lasts 16 minutes, and candidates have 20 minutes to prepare for the tasks. It consists of three modules:

1. Talking about experiences and expressing opinions – the task involves spontaneously answering questions related to a picture depicting situations from everyday life.
2. Presentation – candidates prepare a short presentation on one of two topics of their choice. To facilitate the task, they have the opportunity to use visual aids and questions included on the exam sheet.
3. Discussion – in this stage, candidates express their opinion on the chosen topic and hold a conversation with the other exam taker, which allows them to assess their ability to dialogue and exchange ideas.

In order to earn a telc certificate in Polish, you must score at least 50% of the total exam. The results are available 6 to 8 weeks after the exam, and the certificate can be picked up at the exam center, such as the Varia Polish Language Center. The level of the certificate awarded depends on the final score – with a higher score you can get a certificate at the B2 level, and with a lower score – B1.

The telc Polish language exam is available to everyone, regardless of age. The lack of age restrictions makes it popular with both adults and young people, who may need such a certificate when taking exams for university in Poland. The exam is also available in a version for schools, which is an attractive option for younger people learning Polish as a foreign language.

Each examination center sets the price of the telc Polish language exam on its own. If you want to take the telc exam in Krakow, get acquainted with the current price list at the VARIA Polish Language Center exam center. If you pass the exam, you will receive a telc certificate of Polish, it is free of charge.

There are several examination centers in Poland; one of them is VARIA Polish Language Center. The Varia Examination Center is located in Krakow and organizes telc Polish language exams at B1/B2 level several times a year. You can find the current exam dates, price list and information on how to register for the exam under the telc Polish language exam tab.

Before taking the exam, it’s a good idea to make sure that you have a good understanding and use of basic grammatical constructions from the Polish language, that you have mastered vocabulary at a minimum B1 level, that you have at least basic information about Poland, its culture, history, traditions. This knowledge may prove useful in some tasks.

You may find it helpful to take a Polish language course, where, under the guidance of qualified teachers, you will be able to identify your strengths and weaknesses, practice the different types of tasks found on the exam, and properly prepare for each part of the exam.

If you have questions and need more information, contact the telc Exam Center, where you will receive expert assistance.

The author of the article is Katarzyna Hoffmann, co-owner of the Varia Polish Language Center of Krakow. She graduated in German Philology from Jagiellonian University in Krakow.