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

International Examinations
British Council is the Examination Centre in Hong Kong for Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). These examinations are the most widely recognised of the international examinations of English. Key English Test (KET) and Preliminary English Test (PET) are held 3 times a year in March, May and November. First Certificate in English (FCE), Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) and Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) are held twice a year in June and December. Registration takes place approximately two months before the date of the examination.

KET (Key English Test) and KET for Schools
KET is an international qualification in English for teenagers and adults which recognises the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken English in basic level.  

There are two versions of KET available: KET and KET for Schools. The two versions are identical in test format and level of question papers. The test certificates for both are the same. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in KET for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests of school children.

Comparison between KET and KET for Schools

The new computer-based Cambridge English: Key (CB KET) will be launched in July 2012. The test format is the same with the paper-based test which includes listening test, reading and writing test and speaking test.

PET (Preliminary English Test) and PET for Schools
PET is language qualification at CEF level B1. It assesses candidates’ language skills at lower-intermediate level.

There are two versions of PET available: PET and PET for Schools. The two versions are identical in test format and level of question papers. The test certificates for both are the same. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in PET for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests of school children.

Comparison between PET and PET for Schools

The new computer-based Cambridge English: Preliminary (CB PET) will be launched in July 2012. The test format is the same with the paper-based test which includes listening test, reading and writing test and speaking test.

KET/PET Process

FCE (First Certificate in English) and FCE for Schools
FCE is a language qualification at CEF level B2. It assesses candidates' language skills at upper-intermediate level.

There are two versions of FCE available: FCE and FCE for Schools. The two versions are identical in the test format, level of question papers. The test certificates for both are the same. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in FCE for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests of school children.

Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
CAE offers an advanced qualification for those wishing to use English in their study or at work. It assesses English language ability at CEF level C1. It is recognised by the majority of British universities and higher education institutions as fulfilling entrance requirements in English language.

Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
CPE indicates a very high level of competence which is widely recognised as the standard for University Entrance. Professional bodies and the corporate sector acknowledge CPE as the certification of a near native command of English. It assesses English language ability at CEF level C2.

FCE/CAE/CPE Process

Results Download

How to download your results

More about KET and PET

A video interview with Chris Defty, Teacher Trainer and Examiner of University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations