First Certificate in English (FCE)
Information for candidates
Practical preparation tips, information on what to expect on test day and useful links.
Exam Format
B2 First tests all language skills. The exam consists of four tests developed to evaluate students' English language skills.
Reading and Use of English
1 hour 15 minutes
The B2 First reading comprehension and language use test consists of seven parts containing a mix of different types of text and questions. In parts 1 to 4, you have to read various texts and complete grammar and vocabulary tasks. In parts 5 to 7, you have to read a series of texts and answer questions that test your ability to understand what you read and that demonstrate that you can deal with various types of text. This test accounts for 40% of the final grade.
Writing
1 hour 20 minutes
In the two parts of the B2 First written expression test you have to demonstrate that you can write various types of text in English. This test accounts for 20% of the final grade.
Listening
About 40 minutes
The B2 First listening comprehension test consists of four parts. In each part you have to listen to one or more recorded texts and answer some questions. Recordings are played twice. This test accounts for 20% of the final grade.
Speaking
14 minutes for each pair of candidates
The B2 First speaking test consists of four parts that you will take together with another candidate. There are two examiners. One of them asks you questions and gives you a brochure with topics to discuss. The other examiner listens to what you say, and both examiners decide the grade. The Speaking test accounts for 20% of the final grade.
Choosing your partner for the Speaking Test
If you want to take the Speaking Test with a friend or classmate, you can request it when registering for the exam. In any case, keep in mind that research conducted on the experience of thousands of exams has shown that there are both advantages and disadvantages when taking the test with someone you know, and that in the end this factor does not influence the performance of the test. candidate. It is important to understand that what is valued is your own language skills.
Almost all the B2 First are done in groups of two candidates. However, in sessions with an odd number of candidates, there will be a test with a group of three candidates, usually at the end of the day or just before a long break. The test format is exactly the same, but it lasts slightly longer. Please note that you cannot request to take the test in a group of three candidates.
Frequently asked questions and tips for exam day
An exam guide with preparation tips, test day tips, and helpful links.
Tips for exam day:
Information for candidates:
The Candidate Information booklet is packed with exam information, preparation tips, and frequently asked questions. A great way to help students feel fully prepared for their exam.
Paper Based
Computadora/Digital
To familiarize yourself with the exam format, watch this tutorial before you start
The optimal browser to carry out these tests is Mozilla Firefox. Download Firefox for free.
Answer Sheet
Writing Checklist
Use this checklist to improve your written English and practice for your exam.
Example of the Speaking Test
This video helps you understand what a Speaking test for the Cambridge Assessment English B2 First exam is like.