Cambridge exams are a series of standardised English language assessments developed and administered by the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with Cambridge Assessment English. These exams are designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers at different levels, from beginner to advanced. If you are thinking of taking the exam, here is what you need to know about Cambridge exams.
Types of exams
There are several types of Cambridge exams, each aimed at a specific audience and focusing on different aspects of the English language.
Pre A1 Starters (YLE Starters)
A1 Movers (YLE Movers)
A2 Flyers (YLE Flyers)
A2 Key for Schools (KET)
B1 Preliminary for Schools (PET)
B2 First for Schools (FCE)
A2 Key (KET)
B1 Preliminary (PET)
B2 First (FCE)
C1 Advanced (CAE)
C2 Proficiency (CPE)
B1 Business Preliminary (BEC Preliminary)
B2 Business Vantage (BEC Vantage)
C1 Business Higher (BEC Higher)
The best-known exams are:
Preliminary (PET): This is an intermediate-level exam that certifies that the candidate can communicate in basic everyday situations and has a good command of fundamental grammatical structures and vocabulary.
First (FCE): This is an upper-intermediate level exam that demonstrates that the candidate can use everyday English, both spoken and written, in work, academic and social situations.
Advanced (CAE): This is an advanced level exam that certifies a solid ability to communicate in English in both academic and professional environments. It is recognised by many universities and employers around the world.
Proficiency (CPE): This is the highest level exam and certifies exceptional command of English. It demonstrates that the candidate can communicate fluently and effectively in any situation.
Each exam assesses the four main skills: listening comprehension, speaking, reading comprehension and writing.
How long does each test take?
B1 Preliminary (PET): approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
B2 First (FCE): approximately 3.5 hours.
C1 Advanced (CAE): about 4 hours.
C2 Proficiency (CPE): about 4 hours.
Cambridge certificates are internationally recognised and can be used to demonstrate English language proficiency in different contexts, such as higher education, employment, and migration.
Advantages of Cambridge exams
Cambridge exams offer a number of significant advantages for English learners. Some of the most notable advantages are:
🔴International recognition: Cambridge exams are recognised and accepted by thousands of educational institutions, employers and organisations around the world. Obtaining a Cambridge certificate can improve educational and employment opportunities both nationally and internationally.
🔴Comprehensive assessment: Cambridge exams assess the four main language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. This provides a comprehensive assessment of the student's communication skills.
🔴Clear levels of proficiency: Cambridge exams are structured into different levels of proficiency, from beginner to advanced, allowing students to identify their current level of English and set realistic goals for their learning.
🔴Targeted preparation: There is a wide range of materials and resources available to help students prepare for Cambridge exams. This includes textbooks, study guides, practice exercises and specialised courses, making exam preparation easier.
🔴Communication skills development: Cambridge exams focus on effective communication in real-life situations. By preparing for these exams, students improve their ability to speak, understand, read and write in English in a practical and functional way.
🔴Motivation and achievement: Cambridge exams provide a clear and tangible goal for English learners. Working towards an internationally recognised certificate can increase motivation and commitment to language learning, as well as generate a sense of achievement upon passing the exam.
In summary, Cambridge exams offer international recognition, comprehensive assessment, clear levels of proficiency, specific preparation, communication skills development, motivation, and achievement. These advantages make Cambridge exams a popular and valuable option for students who wish to demonstrate their proficiency in English.
More than just an English academy in Santander
Unilang also has a history, although not as long... 😛 We respect culture, learn from it and its evolution in order to pass on all our knowledge to our students. The rich heritage of the Community of Cantabria allows us to go further and offer
