Cambridge Suite

Cambridge Exams are in-depth assessments done to encourage the development of students  in the English language in ways that are enjoyable and effective.

Englishour’s english language course in ireland hosts exams that follow the Cambridge formats as well as reward Cambridge certificates signifying a student’s progression in the English language.

Exams approved for English Language Courses in Ireland

PET Exam - For B1 Level students

The Cambridge B1 Preliminary (formerly known as the Preliminary English Test or PET) is an internationally recognised qualification awarded by Cambridge English (part of the University of Cambridge).

It represents B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and shows that you can communicate in English in practical, everyday situations — a solid foundation for higher-level or professional English exams.

The test has three sections: 

  • Reading and writing – 90 minutes, 
  • Listening – 30 minutes
  • Speaking – 10–12 minutes (with one or two other candidates)

Scores on the Cambridge B1 Preliminary today range from 120 to 170. A score of 140 or above is considered a “pass” and students with that score will receive the PET Exam certificate, which corresponds to the english language B1 level on the CEFR.

Students scoring 160 or above on the PET Exam will receive a Cambridge Preliminary English Test certificate for the english language B2 level.

FCE Exam - For B2 Level Students

FCE (First Certificate in English) exam is the next step after B1 Preliminary, showing that you can use English confidently in work, study and everyday life.

It’s recognised by universities, employers, and government bodies around the world as proof that you can live and work independently in an English-speaking country or study a course taught in English.

FCE exam test consists of four sections: 

  • Reading and Grammar – 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Writing – 1 hour 20 minutes 
  • Listening – 40 minutes
  • Speaking – 15 minutes per pair of candidates
  • At the end of the exam, a grade is awarded depending on a student’s performance, ranging between A (C1), B (B2) and C (B1) grades.

CAE Exam - For C1 Level Students

C1 Advanced, formerly known as Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) is the in-depth, high-level qualification that shows you have the language skills that employers and universities are looking for. Passing this test attests that you can communicate with confidence in English for work and study purposes.

Similarly to the FCE exam, CAE test consists of four sections: 

  • Reading and Grammar – 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Writing – 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Listening – 40 minutes
  • Speaking – 15 minutes per pair of candidates

At the end of the exam, grades are awarded depending on a student’s performance, ranging between A (C2), B (C1) and C (B2) grades.

You will also receive a Statement of Results. If your performance ranges between CEFR Levels B2 and C2, you will also receive a certificate of your commitment to learning the English language.

Why take C1 Advanced?

Passing this exam shows you have the English language skills that employers and universities expect, and that you can study, work or live abroad with full confidence.