Legal English - Exams - British Council

USEFUL LINKS:

	International Legal English Certificate

ILEC is produced and assessed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, in collaboration with Translegal – Europe’s leading firm of lawyer-linguists. It is recognised by leading associations of lawyers including the European Company Lawyers Association, the European Law Students Association, the International Association of Young Lawyers, and the European Young Bar Association.

ILEC is an examination set at levels B2 (Vantage) and C1 (Effective operational proficiency) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Examinations at the C1 level may be used as proof of the level of language necessary to work in an international legal context or to follow a course of legal study at university level.

	EXAMINATION CONTENT

		Reading (1 hour 15 minutes)

	There are six parts that test candidates´ knowledge and control of the language system, candidates´ understanding of the meaning of written English at word, phrase, sentence and paragraph level.

		Writing (1 hour 15 minutes)

	The paper consists of two law-related writing tasks – a letter and a memorandum

		Listening (40 minutes)

	Test consists of four parts – monologues and dialogues which include presentations, lectures, announcements, discussions, interviews etc.

		Speaking (16 minutes)

	Test examines candidates´ ability to exchange personal and factual information, expressing and finding attitudes and opinions.

		How is ILEC assessed?

The four ILEC papers are assessed on a scale of 200 (50 marks for each paper). Candidates´ total score is based on their performance in all four papers. Candidates can compensate their poor performance in one part by performing well in the other components.

Results are reported in three passing grades: C1 Pass with Merit, C1 Pass and B2 Pass

and two failing grades: Narrow Fail and Fail

More information about the assessment.

Candidates who achieve passing grades will receive an internationally recognized certificate issued by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.

		Preparation materials

Textbooks for exam preparation:

INTERNATIONAL LEGAL ENGLISH (CUP)

The ILEC exam is administered twice a year, in May and November.

Click here for more information about registration.

For more information about ILEC and useful resources visit its official website.