C1 Advanced - Cambridge English

C1 Advanced, previously known as Cambridge English, this is an English language examination provided by Cambridge Assessment English.C1 Advanced is proof of high-level achievement in English and is designed for learners preparing for university or professional life. It is focused on Level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

C1 Advanced is one of the examinations in Cambridge English Qualifications – a path for improving language skills. Each Cambridge English Qualification targets a particular level of the CEFR, and they work together to create an effective learning journey.

Candidates who have taken C1 Advanced will be confident and flexible language users and should be able to flourish in an academic environment

What is the CAE test like?

The test has four sections:

Reading & Use of English - 90 minutes

The Reading and Use of English paper has eight parts and 56 questions. The paper contains texts totaling approximately 3,000 to 3,500 words and candidates are expected to be able to understand texts taken from a range of sources such as short stories, novels, magazines, newspapers and internet articles.

Writing - 2 tasks, 90 minutes

The Writing paper has two parts. Candidates are assessed using the following criteria: Content, Communicative Achievement, Organisation, and Language.

The first part is compulsory and involves writing an essay in response to an input text. The input texts might include articles, leaflets, notices and formal or informal letters.

In the second part, candidates must choose one of three writing tasks. These might include writing a letter, proposal, report or review.

Listening - 40 minutes, 30 questions

The Listening paper has 30 questions, which include listening to short extracts, a long monologue, an interview or discussion, and short monologues on a particular theme.

Speaking - interview, normally with another candidate, 15 minutes

The Speaking test is taken face-to-face (including in the computer-based version of the exam) and the standard format is two candidates and two examiners.

Score

A, B, C (pass), D, E or U (fail)

CAE pass is accepted for entry to some universities.

The Reading and Use of English section counts for 40% of the marks.

The Writing, Listening & Speaking sections each count for 20% of the marks.

You will receive a Statement of Results. If your performance ranges between CEFR Levels B2 and C2, you will also receive a certificate.

Pass grades:

Grade A (C2), Grade B (C1), Grade C (C1)

If you do not pass, but still do reasonably well you are issued a B2 certificate.

Paper-based or computer-based exams

You can do the CAE exam on a computer or on paper.

Candidates who have taken C1 Advanced will be confident and flexible language users and should be able to flourish in an academic environment

When can I take the test?

Arrange with your closest test centre. The CAE test can be taken most months in either paper-based or computer-based format. Not all test centres will administer both types of test.

Candidates who have taken C1 Advanced will be confident and flexible language users and should be able to flourish in an academic environment