Cambridge Exams FAQ
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Cambridge exams.
1. What are the most widely recognised English exams?
Some of the best-known English exams include the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), and the Cambridge qualifications B2 First (FCE) and C1 Advanced (CAE).
These internationally recognised exams are accepted by a large number of educational institutions, employers and government organisations around the world.
See our overview of the main English exams and qualifications.
2. What are the different Cambridge English exams?
Cambridge English Qualifications cover several language levels: Young Learners (YLE), A2 Key (KET), B1 Preliminary (PET), B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE).
If you are planning to continue into higher education, strengthen your CV or improve your professional qualifications, B2 First and C1 Advanced are particularly relevant options.
3. Why should I take a Cambridge English exam?
- Cambridge English Qualifications are valid indefinitely and are taken by millions of candidates worldwide.
- They are recognised internationally by more than 25,000 universities, employers and government organisations.
- They can provide access to higher education and international career opportunities.
- Certain Cambridge qualifications are also accepted for study or visa purposes in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States and Canada.
Individual universities and employers may nevertheless require proof of English that was obtained within a specific number of years.
4. How do I register for the exam and how much does it cost?
To register for a B2 First or C1 Advanced exam in Switzerland:
- Find an authorised Cambridge English exam centre.
- Check the available exam dates and formats.
- Register directly with your chosen exam centre.
- Pay the required exam fee and begin preparing for the test.
Cambridge English exam fees depend on the exam, testing format and exam centre. Contact your chosen centre for current prices and registration information.
5. What is the exam format and how is it scored?
B2 First and C1 Advanced contain four exam papers:
- Reading and Use of English: reading comprehension, vocabulary and grammar
- Writing: written communication
- Listening: listening comprehension
- Speaking: spoken communication
B2 First takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, while C1 Advanced takes approximately 4 hours.
Results are reported using the Cambridge English Scale:
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For B2 First, a score between 160 and 179 certifies CEFR level B2. A score between 180 and 190 certifies level C1.
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For C1 Advanced, a score between 180 and 199 certifies CEFR level C1. A score between 200 and 210 certifies level C2.
6. How long does it take to receive my results?
The time required to receive your results depends on the exam format:
- Results for a digital exam are generally available within one to two weeks.
- Results for a paper-based exam are generally available within four to six weeks.
Your exam centre will provide the exact result-release date and tell you when your certificate will be available.
7. How can I prepare effectively for a Cambridge English exam?
The best way to prepare for a Cambridge English exam is to follow a specialised preparation programme covering all parts of the test and familiarising you with the official exam format.
Wall Street English preparation courses in Switzerland are flexible and can be adapted to your schedule, objectives, current level and budget. You will develop the skills required for the exam and practise with typical Cambridge English tasks.
Learn more about our English exam preparation courses.
Click here to discover our Cambridge exam preparation courses.