Cambridge ESOL Examinations
[Year 2010 Intake - Apply in April for June intake, October to January intake]

The Cambridge ESOL General English suite of exams has a wide choice of certificates reflecting the very different needs and abilities of people. Our certificates cover basic exams for those beginning to learn English, through to advanced certificates for those who have attained a high level of fluency.

Our exams are recognised around the world by thousands of employers, universities and government ministries as proof of ability to use English.

These certificates never expire, and will not need to be renewed — they are an achievement for life.

Language ability and 'Can Do'

All of our exams are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) —an internationally recognised benchmark of language ability.

The framework uses six levels to describe language ability from A1 to C2. Once you have passed one of our exams, there is a clear pathway ahead for you as your abilities and confidence improve.

The Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE) has devised 'Can Do' statements to describe the framework levels in terms of practical skills, such as writing a letter or understanding an announcement. Our tests are based around these real language skills which will give you confidence to use English in real situations.

General English exams

KET (Key English Test)
KET is the Cambridge ESOL exam which recognises the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken English at a basic level.

PET (Preliminary English Test)
PET is a certificate for people who can use everyday written and spoken English at an intermediate level.

FCE (First Certificate in English)
FCE is aimed at people who can use everyday written and spoken English at an upper-intermediate level. It is an ideal exam for people who want to use English for work or study purposes.

CAE (Certificate in Advanced English)
CAE is an exam for advanced users of English. This exam is aimed at people who can use written and spoken English for most professional and social purposes. It is widely recognised for work or study purposes.

CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
CPE is Cambridge ESOL's most advanced exam. It is aimed at people who can use English for professional or study purposes.

English for young learners

Children who learn English when they are young will have an advantage that will stay with them all their life. Cambridge ESOL recognises this and has developed a special system of tests designed to get children of primary school age and upwards on the path to learning English.



Young Learners English (YLE) is a reliable and consistent measure of how well your child is doing in the skills of listening, speaking and reading and writing. Tests are designed to make learning fun and children are encouraged by working towards certificates and earning the 'shields' that record their progress.



English for your future: Cambridge ESOL certificates for the world of work
The Business English Certificates

The Business English Certificates (BEC) are internationally recognised qualifications that show employers your skills for using English in the workplace.

BEC is an ideal English language exam if you are preparing for a career in business. There are three different levels of BEC: BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage and BEC Higher. Is BEC for you?

If your English language ability is sufficient for most simple communications, such as shopping, you may consider progressing towards BEC. You should have an understanding of, or interest in, the world of work, business and commerce.

Why take BEC?

More than ever, a good knowledge of English is needed to succeed in international business and commerce. If you can show you have relevant language skills, you'll have a great advantage in the jobs market and much greater flexibility if you want to work abroad.

BEC can help you show that you have learned English to an appropriate standard and can use it in a business context.

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