WHAT IS THE BERGENSTEST?
The Bergenstest (Test in Norwegian - higher level) is the exam recognized as the proof of the ability to speak Norwegian language equivalent to level B2 and C1 of the Common European Framework for Languages. The exam is available for both the Norwegian language forms - Bokmål and Nynorsk. It is the highest proficiency test available for Norwegian.
The Bergenstest (also Test of Norwegian as a second language) is the exam that is required for anyone wishing to study in a university or college in Norway. It is also necessary for some professionals (eg. working within the healthcare and education) as a proof of knowledge of the Norwegian language.
The examination is conducted three times a year at various locations in Norway from the Folkeuniversitetet. The exam can be also taken abroad. Registration is done over the Internet.
The exam consists of two parts: written (Written test) and oral (Oral test). These two parts are independent of each other, and they are performed on different days and checked independently.
This site aims primarily to help with preparations for the written part (written test).
CONTENT OF THE WRITTEN BERGENSTEST:
First Part 2.5 hours
Exercise 1 Reading
3 texts with open short questions and multiple choice questions. -1 hour
Exercise 2 Listening
25 very short conversations or messages with multiple choice questions
Exercise 3 Report
The candidates must write a report after hearing an interview - 45 min
Pause 30 minutes
Second Part 2.5 hours
Exercise 4 Grammar, words and phrases
30 exercises - 30 min
Exercise 5 Essay writing
The candidates must write an essay by selecting one of two topics - 2 hours
The examination takes approximately 6 hours and it is a paper-based exam. The use of any studying materials (dictionary, notes) is not allowed at the actual Bergenstesten.
To pass the exam one has to pass (mark Passed) all five exercises corresponding to B2 level of the Common European Framework for Languages. To get C1 level (Passed with Distinction) the candidate must score more than B2 level on three out of five tasks. If a candidate scores under B2 level he/she will not pass the exam (Fail).
To try our free demo exam, click here.
Good luck from the team at Bergenstest.no and Bergenstest.com
28.10.2020