Sproochentest guide
How to Pass the Sproochentest
One oral exam, one listening test, no reading or writing. Here is what the Sproochentest involves and the fastest way to prepare for it.
The Sproochentest is the Luxembourgish language test you have to pass to apply for citizenship. Most people fail it not because their Luxembourgish is weak, but because they prepare for the wrong things. Here is the whole exam, and the shortest path through it.
What the exam actually is
One oral exam and one listening test, on a single day. No reading, no writing. (Source: INLL.)
| Part | Length | Level | What happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral, interview | ~5 min | A2 | You pick 1 of 2 everyday topics and answer questions |
| Oral, picture | ~5 min | A2 | You pick 1 of 3 photos and describe it |
| Listening | 35 min | B1 | Three audio texts, multiple choice on a tablet |
The interview comes first, then the picture. Speaking is graded at A2 (basic conversation); listening at B1, a full level higher.
The one rule that should shape your prep
Score at least 50% on the speaking test and you pass the whole exam, whatever your listening score.
If speaking falls below 50%, you can still pass when the average of speaking and listening reaches 50%. Speaking is the main event; listening is the safety net. We break this down in how the Sproochentest is scored.
The shortest path: speak first
Speaking is at A2 and the topics are predictable. Listening is at B1 and you cannot predict the audio. So spend most of your time speaking out loud.
- Drill the interview topics. The same everyday themes recur. Build a few reusable sentences per topic and say them aloud. Start with our model answers and sample questions.
- Learn one picture framework. A repeatable four-step structure works for any photo. See how to describe a picture.
- Answer at your level. The fastest way to freeze is to reach for a true, complicated answer you have no words for. Answer like a beginner instead.
- Keep listening ticking over. Twenty minutes a day of Luxembourgish radio or podcasts is enough. See the listening test.
Registration, cost, and logistics
- Where: the MyINL portal. You need a valid ID.
- Cost: EUR 75 per attempt. Retakes are unlimited, but you can only re-register once your results arrive.
- Results: by post, about four to six weeks later. The certificate never expires.
Who is exempt
Residents of 20 years or more do a short language course instead of the full test. A medical exemption exists with specialist certification. Check your own case on guichet.lu; this is general information, not legal advice.
Start here
You do not need months of classes. You need focused speaking practice on the right topics. Take a free mock to see where you stand, then drill the gaps.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a written or reading part in the Sproochentest?
No. The Sproochentest is oral and listening only. Speaking is graded at A2 and listening at B1. There is no reading or writing.
What is the pass mark for the Sproochentest?
You pass if you score at least 50% on the speaking test. If speaking is below 50%, you pass when the average of speaking and listening reaches 50%.
How much does the Sproochentest cost?
EUR 75 per attempt, booked through the MyINL portal. Retakes are unlimited, but you can only re-register once your results arrive.
How long does it take to prepare?
It depends on your starting level, but focused daily speaking practice on the recurring topics matters far more than the number of months.
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