More than ever, a good knowledge of English is needed to succeed in international business and commerce: whether for working with multinational companies in your own country, or living and working abroad.
In many areas of international commerce, English is used as the common language, and if you can show you have an internationally recognised business qualification in English, you will have a greater advantage in the jobs market, and much greater flexibility if you want to work abroad.
The Business English Certificates (BEC) are internationally recognised qualifications which show employers your skills for using English in the workplace.
BEC is an ideal English language exam if you are preparing for a career in business. There are three different levels of BEC: BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage and BEC Higher.
If your English language ability is sufficient for most simple communications, such as shopping, you may consider progressing towards BEC. You should have an understanding of, or interest in, the world of work, business and commerce.
BEC is officially recognised by more than a thousand educational organisations, employers, ministries, government bodies and professional organisations throughout the world as a suitable qualification for business use.
Leading international companies such as Sony Ericsson, Shell, Vodafone, Bayer, Coca-Cola and HSBC have all recognised BEC in their offices around the world.
| BEC Levels |
Location |
Written papers & Listening |
Speaking |
Closing Date |
Price |
| Preliminary |
Amsterdam |
2 April |
2 April |
22 February |
€ 165 |
|
Alkmaar |
5 June |
5 June |
26 April |
€ 165 |
|
Amsterdam |
23 November |
23 November |
11 October |
€ 165 |
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| Vantage |
Amsterdam |
23 March |
23 March |
15 February |
€ 192 |
|
Amsterdam |
6 June |
1 & 6 June* |
26 April |
€ 192 |
|
Amsterdam |
2 November |
26 Oct &
2 Nov* |
27 September |
€ 192 |
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| Higher |
Amsterdam |
4 April |
4 April |
22 February |
€ 223 |
|
Amsterdam |
4 June |
1 and 4 June* |
26 April |
€ 223 |
|
Amsterdam |
16 November |
16 November |
11 October |
€ 223 |
* It is NOT possible to choose your own speaking date, a date will be assigned
Which level do I choose?
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A minimum of ten candidates is required for any exam |
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Candidates can register individually or through their school/language training institution. |
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All exams can be administered at the premises of any institute or company with a minimum of 70 candidates. |
In order to register and download our exams brochure, please visit the registration page.
- Order form for past papers
€ 18.15 per paper (including CD)
- Practice online with Cambridge:
For more information on the business English exams, please contact our office in Amsterdam:
British Council Amsterdam
Weteringschans 85A
1017 RZ Amsterdam
T +31 (0)20 - 550 60 68
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