What is the structure of the Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) exam?

The Cambridge C1 Advanced exam consists of 4 papers: 1) Reading and Use of English (1h 30m, 8 parts, 56 questions), 2) Writing (1h 30m, 2 parts), 3) Listening (40m, 4 parts, 30 questions), and 4) Speaking (15m, 4 parts, taken with another candidate). The first three papers are taken together with short breaks, while Speaking is scheduled separately.

What score do I need to pass the C1 Advanced (CAE) exam?

To pass the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam, you need to score at least 180 points (Grade C) on the Cambridge English Scale. Scores are: Grade A (200-210 points, CEFR Level C2), Grade B (193-199 points, CEFR Level C1), Grade C (180-192 points, CEFR Level C1). If you score 160-179 points, you'll receive a B2 certificate instead of C1.

How does C1 Advanced differ from B2 First?

C1 Advanced (CAE) is more challenging than B2 First (FCE). C1 Advanced tests more complex language, requires longer writing tasks (220-260 words vs. 140-190 for B2), and expects more sophisticated arguments. C1 Advanced Reading and Use of English has 8 parts (compared to 7 in B2 First), and the exam generally requires a broader vocabulary and more nuanced understanding of English.

Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) Certificate Exam Complete Guide

The Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly known as CAE - Certificate in Advanced English) is one of the most respected English language qualifications in the world. It proves high-level English skills for academic and professional success. This Cambridge Assessment English qualification is accepted by thousands of educational institutions and employers globally.

C1 Advanced Exam Structure

The exam consists of four papers. The Reading and Use of English, Writing, and Listening papers are taken together in 3 hours 55 minutes with short breaks between them.

The Speaking test is taken at a different time and possibly on a different day. It's conducted face-to-face with two candidates and two examiners, providing a more realistic and reliable measure of your ability to use English to communicate.

Exam Format Options

The C1 Advanced exam can be taken in two formats:

Paper-based C1 Advanced: The traditional format where you complete the exam using pen and paper
Computer-based C1 Advanced: The digital version where you complete the exam on a computer

Both versions have identical content, timing, and scoring. Your choice may depend on your personal preference and computer skills.

Test Locations

The Cambridge C1 Advanced exam is available at more than 1,300 authorized exam centers worldwide. You can find your nearest test center through the Cambridge English website.

Test Dates 2024

The C1 Advanced (CAE) test is available throughout the year. The availability of dates depends on your chosen format:

Paper-based tests: Typically available in March, May, June, August, and December
Computer-based tests: More frequently available, including February, April, July, August, and November

It's important to note that not all test centers administer both types of test. Check with your local center for their specific schedule.

Exam Fees

Fees for the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam vary by country and test center. The average cost is around €200 euros, though prices may range from €150 to €250 depending on location. Additional fees may apply for late registration or rescheduling. Contact your local test center for exact pricing information.

Scoring System and CEFR Levels

Results for the C1 Advanced exam are reported on the Cambridge English Scale, which aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The scoring system is as follows:

Grade A: 200-210 (CEFR Level C2)
Grade B: 193-199 (CEFR Level C1)
Grade C: 180-192 (CEFR Level C1)
Level B2: 160-179 (Candidate demonstrated ability at CEFR Level B2)
Below B2: 120-159

To pass the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam, you need to achieve at least 180 points (Grade C). If you score between 160-179, you'll receive a B2 certificate instead of C1. Many universities and employers specify minimum scores or grades required for admission or employment, so check their requirements before taking the exam.

Preparing for the Exam

Effective preparation is key to success in the C1 Advanced exam. Here are some tips:

Take regular C1 Advanced practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format
Focus on improving your vocabulary at the C1 level, including idiomatic expressions and collocations
Practice your writing skills with essays, reports, reviews, emails, and other formats assessed in the exam
Engage in regular listening practice with authentic materials at an advanced level
Find a study partner to practice speaking and collaborative tasks

Exam Papers

Click on each exam part below for detailed information, preparation tips, and our proven strategies to excel in each section.

Paper	Format	Length	What to expect - (click below for more details)	Try Now
Reading and Use of English	8 parts / 56 questions	1 hour 30 minutes	This part of the exam combines reading comprehension with grammar and vocabulary assessment. It contains 8 parts and 56 questions in total, testing your ability to understand texts and demonstrate language mastery.	Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Test 4
Writing	2 parts	1 hour 30 minutes	The writing paper has 2 parts, and you've got 1 hour and 30 minutes to demonstrate your written English skills. You'll need to write essays, reports, reviews, emails and more.	Writing Correction
Listening	4 parts / 30 questions	About 40 minutes	The listening part has 4 sections with 30 questions, and takes about 40 minutes. You get to hear each recording twice, testing your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts.	Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Test 4
Speaking	4 parts	15 minutes per pair of candidates	The speaking test is conducted face-to-face, usually in pairs or groups of three. It lasts about 15 minutes and has 4 parts, assessing your spoken English in different interactive contexts.	Speaking Tips