The Cambridge ESOL Main Suite of Examinations are English language exams for adults whose first language is not English. They test how you actually use English to communicate on a day-to-day basis and in real-life situations. Each examination covers the four main language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. They are available at five different levels:

Key English Test (KET)

The KET test provides an early learning objective, enabling learners to meet their most urgent communication needs in English. It offers a basic qualification in English language. It is an elementary level standard.

Preliminary English Test (PET)

The PET exam tests the language skills needed to survive in social and work situations in an English-speaking environment.

First Certificate in English (FCE)

The FCE is an intermediate-level examination that requires a good standard in all four language skills. It is widely recognised in commerce, industry, and by educational institutions in Britain and overseas.

Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)

The CAE examination offers a high-level qualification in the language for those wishing to use English for professional or study purposes. It is recognised by the majority of British and international universities.

Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

The CPE examination represents a very high level of competence and is recognised as fulfilling entrance requirements in English language by UK universities and many universities in other English-speaking countries.

How can you prepare for these examinations?

British Council Teaching Centre offers courses to help you prepare for some of these examinations.

Our Knowledge and Learning Zones have a variety of materials for you to practise for the exam on your own. These include practice books and cassettes to help you with the listening papers.

Additional information

For more information about our ESOL Main Suite of Examinations please contact our examinations team:

British Council, First Circle, Jebel Amman
P O Box 634, Amman 11118, Jordan

Telephone + 962 6 4603420
Fax + 962 6 4656413
E-mail info@britishcouncil.org.jo