The Cambridge Preliminary English Test, or PET for short, is a qualification awarded by Cambridge ESOL. The level of PET is described as Pre-Intermediate and is at B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
This exam shows that you can communicate in English in practical, everyday situations. It will give you a good foundation if you want to study for a professional English qualification.
The test has three sections: Reading and writing are taken together (90 minutes), Listening (30 minutes) and Speaking (an interview, 10 minutes).
Scores on the PET Exam 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 a level B1 in English on the CEFR.
Students scoring 160 or above on the PET Exam will receive a Cambridge Preliminary English Test certificate for level B2.
B2 First, formerly known as Cambridge English: First (FCE), is the logical step in your language learning journey between B1 Preliminary and C1 Advanced.
An Upper Intermediate-level qualification proves you have the language skills to live and work independently in an English-speaking country or study on courses taught in English.
B2 First is a test of all areas of language ability, consisting of four sections: Reading and Use of English (1 hour 15 minutes), Writing (1 hour 20 minutes), Listening (40 minutes) and Speaking ( about 15 minutes per pair of candidates).
Three different grades are possible (A, B or C). FCE A grade pass is accepted for entry to some
C1 Advanced, formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced (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.
The test is in four parts and covers all language skill areas: Reading and Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes), Writing (1 hour 30 minutes), Listening (40 minutes) and Speaking (15 minutes per candidate).
As in the FCE exam, the results are expressed in grades: A (C2), B (C1) or C (C1).
You will also receive a Statement of Results. If your performance ranges between CEFR Levels B2 and C2, you will also receive a certificate.
If you do not pass but still do reasonably well, you are issued a B2 certificate.
