Norskprøven B2: what separates B2 from B1

Reading and listening at B2

The texts are longer, argumentative and carry a point of view you must recognise, even when it is not stated outright. In listening you meet faster speech, more speakers and topics beyond everyday life. What sets B2 readers apart is that they read for the whole first and pick up the details afterwards — not the other way round.

Writing and speaking at B2

In writing, a discussing text is expected: several sides of an issue, your own examples, and a conclusion that follows from the arguments. Sentences vary in length and do not all begin with the subject. In speaking you talk coherently about topics you have not prepared, and you can express uncertainty, agreement and disagreement with nuance — "on the one hand … on the other", "it depends", "I partly agree".

What to practise from B1 to B2

Spend time on texts that are slightly too hard, and on writing texts that take a position and justify it in several steps. Ask for feedback on word choice and variation, not just on errors.

• Read argumentative texts and note how the writer links the paragraphs.
• Write discussing texts with at least two opposing views before the conclusion.
• In speaking: practise talking about unfamiliar topics for three minutes without stopping, and listen for repetition.

Frequently asked questions

Who needs B2?

Often those who will study in Norwegian, or who work in professions where precise language is part of the job, such as health care, teaching and case work. The requirement is set by the institution or employer.

Is B2 much harder than B1?

The step is bigger than from A2 to B1 for most people, because B2 requires precision and the ability to discuss, not just to communicate. What helps is a lot of reading at the level and writing with feedback.

How to practise this in NorskMentor

• Writing

  Level A1–B2

  Write the task types from the test and get feedback on level, structure, grammar and vocabulary.

• Speaking

  Level A1–B2

  Speak Norwegian three ways: one prompt, a guided three-question conversation, or a free real-time conversation with Lumo.

• Reading

  Level A1–B2

  Read Norwegian texts at your level and answer tasks like the ones on the Norwegian language test.

• Exam practice

  Level B1–B2

  A timed reading test, with the same restrictions as the real one.

Read next

• Norskprøven B1: what is required, and how to practise
• The Norwegian language test (Norskprøven): how it works and how to prepare
• Write better Norwegian: the task types, the structure and the mistakes that cost you