About the PET
There are three parts to the PET exam:
- Reading and writing: You will read texts from signs, journals, newspapers and magazines, and show that you understand the main points. Your written English will be tested by completing tasks such as writing a short message and a story or letter – to demonstrate the range of your vocabulary and understanding of sentence structure.
- Listening: You need to show you can understand a range of spoken material, including announcements and discussions about everyday life.
- Speaking: Candidates take the speaking test in pairs. You’ll take part in conversation, ask and answer questions, and talk freely about yourself – for example, your likes and dislikes.
Find out more about PET at the Cambridge website.
How to prepare for PET
As with all Cambridge ESOL certificates, there is a wide range of support to help you prepare for your exam.
If you wish to prepare for the Preliminary English Test (PET) on your own, take a look at the Cambridge ESOL exam preparation site. You can download many free materials, such as a short booklet about the exam, information for candidates, sample exam papers and sound files for the Listening Test materials.
Top Tips for PET answers your last-minute questions. There are also many other books and materials to help you prepare for the PET.
Do you have a disability?
If you have a disability, please contact your local British Council Exams centre to find out how we can help. You can also get more information on the Cambridge exams site.
