The Reading component (1 hour, 30 minutes; 40 points) consists of 4 tasks such as a four-option multiple-choice or gapped text. To learn more about this part of the exam and to download a sample paper click here

In the Writing component (2 hours; 40 marks) the candidate is required to write two compositions. Each composition should be between 300-350 words in length. First composition is a compulsory task (an article, an essay, a letter or a proposal). The second task should be chosen out of four. One of them is based on three books from an optional reading list. To learn more about this part of the exam and to download a sample paper click here.

The set books for the 2009 sessions are:

• Rose Tremaine The Way I Found Her
• Tracy Chevalier,  Girl with a Pearl Earring

The Use of English component (1 hour, 30 minutes; 40 marks) consists of 5 parts. The tasks types include: open cloze, word formation cloze, gapped sentences, sentence transformations, open-ended comprehension questions and a summary task. To learn more about this part of the exam and to download a sample paper click here.

The Listening component (ca 40 minutes; 40 marks) contains 4 sections. The texts in each section are heard twice. The types of tasks include: matching, multiple choice, sentence completion and matching. To learn more about this part and to download a sample paper click here.

The format of the Speaking component (ca 19 minutes; 40 marks) is two candidates and two examiners. This component consists of 3 parts. In part one there is general and social conversation between the interlocutor and each candidate. In part two the candidates talk to each other about a set of photographs. In part three each candidate is given a written question to respond to and discuss a topic with the second candidate. To learn more about this part of the exam and to download a sample paper click here.

The oral part of CPE is graded in Poland by experienced and highly trained examiners.

Passing grades - A, B, C

Failing grades - D, E

A - 80 % and above

B - 75% - 79 %

C - 60% - 74%

D - 55 % - 59%

E - 54 % and below

A preparation course is not a requirement for those wanting to register for CPE, although candidates may find it beneficial to prepare for the examination under the guidance of an experienced teacher. You can register for a course in our Teaching Centre in Warsaw and Krakow or other language schools which run preparation courses.

A wide range of books on preparing for CPE is available at most language bookshops in Poland. Preparation materials are also available in the British Council Library.