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English test for adults and teenagers

What are Cambridge ESOL Exams?

Cambridge ESOL Exams are English language exams for people whose first language is not English (aged 12 years old and above). The Cambridge ESOL examinations are known all over the world and are recognised by employers, universities and national education authorities in many countries.

The examinations cover the four language skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing - and tests your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Not sure which exam is right for you? Test your English with Cambridge ESOL quick, free online test. It will give you an idea of your English level and tell you which Cambridge ESOL exam might be the most appropriate for you, whether you are in the UK or anywhere in the world

There are 5 different levels so everyone can find an examination to match their ability

KET – Key English Test

PET - Preliminary English Test

FCE – First Certificate in English

CAE – Certificate in Advanced English

CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English

Why choose Cambridge ESOL Exams?

•These internationally recognised certificates from the University of Cambridge show the level you have achieved, and are linked to the Common European Framework

•Universities, employers and national education authorities in many countries recognise Cambridge ESOL Exams.

•They are taken worldwide in more than 140 countries

How can I prepare?

There are many websites to help you prepare for your exams. Please find out more about our online resources. Attentively, you can take a preparation course.

Exam preparation courses

Consolidate your English skills and achieve an international qualification from the University of Cambridge.

At certain levels, you may be recommended for Exam Preparation courses where you will have the opportunity to obtain an internationally recognised qualification. It is not compulsory for you to take the exam, but we recommend these courses to all students who wish to consolidate their level to internationally recognised standards.

We provide courses to prepare for FCE (CEF Level B2) and for CAE (CEF Level C1).  We plan the courses to take place over four terms, starting in Autumn Term and taking you to the exam in June.

These courses focus on all four skills, plus grammar and vocabulary.  Due to a lot of exam practice, you will get plenty of feedback on where you are with your English!

Check our term dates to find out when the next course starts

How can I register for Cambridge ESOL exam?

  • Complete the relevant registration form with your full details and write your name as it should appear on the certificate.
  • Attach one recent photograph
  • Attach VALID proof of your identity at registration
  • Make sure to hand in the completed application form along with the correct payment to our reception in our premises before the test and by the mentioned deadline for each test session.

Please check our ESOL exam dates for registration.

Refund policy

Refunds are ONLY given for medical reasons. If a candidate withdraws his/her entry on medical grounds or misses the examination because of illness, the candidate will receive a full refund less TND 35 administration fees provided that a statement from a medical practitioner supports the claim.

For more information, please view Refund and transfer policy.

What tests are available?

Key English Test (KET)
An elementary exam (Cambridge ESOL level 1) which can be achieved after approximately 180-200 hours of learning. It tests most basic communication needed in everyday situations and is suitable for students aged thirteen and over.
Adults English Courses, British Council Prague, Czech Republic © Dan Materna
 Preliminary English Test (PET)
This Cambridge ESOL level 2 exam tests language ability at lower-intermediate level (after approximately 375 hours of study) and is about two-thirds of the way to the very popular FCE
Teaching English to staff in Prague - Image © Liba Taylor
First Certificate in English (FCE)
At Cambridge ESOL level 3, this exam is at the upper-intermediate or 'independent user' level. FCE is the most widely taken exam and has the most widespread recognition. It is taken for employment and study purposes.
Students preparing for EFL exam, Hong Kong - Image © Julio Etchart
 Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
This Cambridge ESOL level 4 exam offers a lower-advanced language qualification for those who need to use English in their jobs. It is mostly taken by university students and young professionals. Many universities recognise CAE as an English language entry requirement.
Students
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University of Cambridge ESOL

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