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Cambridge exam preparation

Cambridge English Exam Preparation Course Online

10,000+ professionals coachedOnline since 2007Rated 4.9/5 (69 Google reviews)Free trial, no credit cardTeachers experienced with Cambridge exams, some are examiners

One-to-one online preparation for the Cambridge English exams with native teachers who know each level and paper. Whether you are aiming for B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency, we start by pinpointing your level, then build the lessons around the papers and skills that will get you the grade you need.

Built for: students who need a B2 First or C1 Advanced certificate for university | professionals who want a lifelong proof of English for their CV | people applying for a UK visa via a Cambridge qualification | anyone who wants a recognised certificate that does not expire.

Book a free trial lesson and we will help you choose the right Cambridge exam.

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What are the Cambridge English exams?

The Cambridge English Qualifications are a suite of exams, each aligned to a level of the Common European Framework (CEFR). Each one leads to a certificate that does not expire, which is why they are so popular: they are a lasting proof of your English, recognised by thousands of universities, employers and governments worldwide. During your free trial lesson, one of our advisors evaluates your level and helps you decide which exam and which papers to focus on.

Which Cambridge exam should you prepare for?

Exam CEFR level Best for
A2 Key (KET) A2 Proving the basics of everyday English
B1 Preliminary (PET) B1 Showing you can cope with everyday written and spoken English
B2 First (FCE) B2 University entry and work in an English-speaking environment
C1 Advanced (CAE) C1 Demanding academic and professional settings
C2 Proficiency (CPE) C2 The highest level, proof of exceptional English

Source: Cambridge English. B2 First is the most popular. Check which exam your university or employer accepts before you start.

The four papers in B2 First, C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency

These exams share the same structure, with four papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. (Reading and Use of English is a single combined paper, updated back in 2015.) Speaking is taken face to face with two examiners, usually in pairs. Your result is reported on the Cambridge English Scale and, at B2 and above, a strong pass can even certify the level above.

Not sure which level you are at?

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What is included in our Cambridge exam preparation

  • An introduction to your exam and its papers, so you understand exactly what is expected in each one.
  • Practice on real exam-style tasks for the paper you are preparing, with feedback after each one.
  • Targeted work to lift your English to the level the exam requires.
  • Strategy and timing for each paper, plus the confidence and support to pass.

Learn with teachers experienced in Cambridge exams

The teachers who prepare our students for the Cambridge exams know the requirements of each level, and some are examiners themselves. For focused practice, read our overview of all the Cambridge exams, our guide to the C1 Advanced exam, the details of the C2 Proficiency listening paper, and tips for the B2 First speaking test.

Who is the Cambridge exam preparation course for?

The Cambridge exams are recognised by universities and companies all over the world, but they are not a formality. Preparing for them genuinely improves your everyday communication, and the certificate is a strong asset when you apply for a job or a place at university. Whatever your level, from A2 Key to C2 Proficiency, we help you prepare and pass. All lessons are one to one and built around your goals.

Cambridge exam tips and resources

Want to read more before your first lesson? Start with our overview of the Cambridge exams, then the C1 Advanced guide and the B2 First speaking tips. Preparing for a different test? See all the English exams our teachers can help with, or test your English level to see where you stand today.

Ready to start? Talk through your target exam and timeline with a teacher.

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Frequently asked questions about the Cambridge exams

Which Cambridge exam should I take?
It depends on your current level and your goal. B2 First is the most popular and works for university entry and general professional use. C1 Advanced suits demanding academic and professional settings, and C2 Proficiency is the highest level. If you are still building up, A2 Key and B1 Preliminary are good stepping stones. Your teacher will recommend the right exam after the first lesson.
Do Cambridge certificates expire?
No. Unlike IELTS and TOEFL, which are usually valid for two years, a Cambridge English certificate does not have an expiry date, so it is a lasting proof of your level. Some universities or employers may still prefer a recent result, so check their policy.
How long does it take to prepare for a Cambridge exam?
It depends on your starting level and target exam. As a rough guide, moving up one CEFR level usually takes several months of regular study. If you are already at the exam’s level and mainly need technique and practice, a focused course of a few weeks to a couple of months is realistic. Your teacher will tell you where you stand after the first lesson.
What are the papers in a Cambridge exam?
B2 First, C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency each have four papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Reading and Use of English is one combined paper. Speaking is done face to face with examiners, usually in pairs.
How are the Cambridge exams graded?
Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. At B2 and above, grades A, B and C are passes, and a very high score can certify the level above, while a score just below can certify the level below. There is no simple pass or fail number; your certificate states the level and grade you achieved.
Are the lessons one to one?
Yes. Every Cambridge exam preparation lesson at Live English is private, one to one, and online by Zoom, Teams or Google Meet. Lessons are built around your target exam, your weakest papers and your test date.