Cambridge ESOL

Teachers using laptops - Photographer Tim Hall

Exams

University of Cambridge English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

The Cambridge ESOL exams are amongst the world's best-known qualifications for learners of English. The exams cover all four language skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing - and assess the candidates' ability to use a variety of structures and functions in authentic situations. The Cambridge general English exams are available at five levels.

Key English Test (KET – level 1)

The first step for students wishing to progress towards the higher levels: KET is an early learning objective, which enables people to acquire a general basic ability in English. It can be achieved after approximately 180-200 hours of study. Exam content: 1. Reading & Writing (1 hour and 10 minutes), 2. Listening (approximately 30 minutes), 3. Speaking (8 to 10 minutes per pair of candidates).

Preliminary English Test (PET – level 2)

Tests communicative competence in each of the four language skills at a level approximately two thirds of the way to the FCE. At this level, a learner should be able to cope linguistically in a range of everyday situations, which require use of English in their own or foreign country in contact with native and non-native speakers of the language. About 380 hours of study are required to reach this level. Exam content: 1. Reading & Writing (1 hour and 30 minutes), 2. Listening (approximately 40 minutes), 3. Speaking (10 to 12 minutes per pair of candidates).

First certificate in English (FCE - level 3)

Indicates a high level of competence in English for learners who are reaching a standard of English that is adequate for most purposes, including business and study. It is recognised by the majority of British universities as proof of adequate language skills for courses taught and assessed in English. Examination content: 1. Reading (1 hour and 15 minutes), 2. Writing (2 hours), 3. English in Use (1 hour and 30 minutes), 4. Listening (approx. 45 minutes), 5. Speaking (15 minutes).

Certificate in advanced English (CAE – level 4)

Certificate of proficiency in English (CPE – level 5)

The longest established and highest language qualification in this series. It indicates a level of competence and is recognised by institutions of higher education in many countries, including almost all universities in the United Kingdom. Employers throughout the world also recognise CPE. Examination content: 1. Reading Comprehension (1 hour 30 minutes), 2. Composition (2 hours), 3. Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes), 4. Listening Comprehension approximately 40 minutes), 5. Interview (average 19 minutes).