CPE
The Certificate in Proficiency in English examination is at Level C2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) of the Council of Europe and is the highest level of Cambridge ESOL exams. This is a valuable qualification which is proof that a successful candidate has approached the fluency of an educated native speaker. CPE is officially recognised by universities, employers and government departments around the world.
CРE is a popular exam which was first introduced in 1913 and is taken by candidates of more than 170 nationalities in about 90 countries throughout the world, mainly in Europe and South America. The majority of candidates are aged between 16 and 24 and about 61% of all candidates are female. About 80% of candidates undertake a preparatory course before taking the examination.
Reasons for taking CPE:
- For work (46%);
- For study (36%);
- Other (18%).
CPE has five papers:
- Reading (1 hour 30 minutes);
- Writing (2 hours);
- Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes);
- Listening (45 minutes);
- Speaking (19 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.
