CAE
The Certificate in Advanced English examination is at Level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) of the Council of Europe. This is an exam at a high level, a pass at which is proof that the person can cope linguistically with most practical everyday situations. It is recognised by almost all universities in the United Kingdom and a growing number of US universities, as well as many employers worldwide.
CAE is a popular exam, originally offered in 1991 and taken by candidates of more than 190 nationalities in about 80 countries throughout the world, mainly in Europe and South America. The majority of candidates are aged between 16 and 19 and about 62% of all candidates are female. About 85% of candidates undertake a preparatory course before taking the examination.
Reasons for taking CAE:
- To gain employment (32%);
- For further study (24%);
- Out of personal interest (12%);
- Other (32%).
CAE has five papers:
- Reading (1 hour 15 minutes);
- Writing (1 hour 30 minutes);
- Use of English (1 hour);
- Listening (40 minutes)
- Speaking (15 minutes).
Each paper is equally weighted contributing 1/5 (40 marks) to the examination’s overall total number of 200 marks (one had better think in terms of percentages – five papers, each carrying 20%). The overall grade is based on overall performance so it is not necessary to achieve a satisfactory level in all five papers in order to pass the examination.
The grades are as follows:
- А: if you score 80 – 100% overall
- В: 75 – 79%
- С: 60 – 74%
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- D: 55 – 59%
- Е: 0 – 54%
For a pass, a candidate needs at least 60% overall performance (Grades C, B, and A). Certificates are issued only to candidates with passing grades.
