Cambridge English: First
B2 First (also known as Cambridge English: First or First Certificate in English) is an exam at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages of the Council of Europe and corresponds to a score of 160 to 190 on the Cambridge English Scale. A pass at FCE is proof that the person can cope linguistically with a number of practical everyday situations, including business and study. It is recognised by many universities as an upper intermediate level of language proficiency and can also be an important advantage in job applications.
FCE is one of the most popular exams. Originally offered in 1939, every year it is taken by candidates of more than 200 nationalities in over 100 countries throughout the world, mainly in Europe and South America. The majority of candidates are aged between 15 and 17 and about 58% of all candidates are female. Almost 90% of candidates undertake a preparatory course before taking the examination.
Cambridge English: First (First Certificate in English) consists of four papers (parts/sections). The first paper is a combination of two papers taken together and contributes 2/5 (40%) to the examination’s maximum overall result. The other 3 papers are equally weighted and count 20% each, thus forming the remaining 60% of the result. Actually, you will receive five separate scores on five separate parts. The final grade is based on overall performance so it is not necessary to achieve a satisfactory score in all papers in order to pass the examination.
Reading and Use of English
1 hour and 15 minutes
7 parts – 52 questions
Writing
1 hour and 20 minutes
2 writing tasks
Listening
about 40 minutes
4 parts – 30 questions
Speaking
about 14 minutes
4 parts – Interview
180-190
173-179
160-172
140-159
122-139
Pass at Grade A
Pass at Grade B
Pass at Grade C
Level B1
–
Certificate for Level C1
Certificate for Level B2
Certificate for Level B2
Certificate for Level B1
No certificate is issued
- Group preparation course
- Development of all language skills
- Teaching encompassing all exam parts
- Preparation for both the paper and computer versions of the exam.
- Practising tried and tested approaches to the various components
- Practical strategies and tips for exam success
- Regular progress tests
- Access to two online platforms full of many additional resources
- Practice tests simulating the real exam (mock tests)
- Block exam registration for the whole group
