The Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCEfs)
Level B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
A Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCEfs) certificate proves that you have the language skills to live and work independently in an English-speaking country or study on courses taught in English.
The Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCEfs) certificate shows that you can:
- communicate effectively, express opinions and present arguments
- write letters, reports, stories and other types of text
- follow and understand the news
- write clear, detailed English, expressing opinions and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of different points of view
Worldwide recognition
The Cambridge English: First (FCE) certificate is accepted by thousands of employers, governments, professional bodies, and universities globally. However, please note that most institutions require you to have C1 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), such as the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) or the Cambridge English: Business higher (BEC higher).
The Exam Format
Cambridge exams are designed to ensure standardised test conditions for people of all linguistic backgrounds and nationalities and are supported by a dedicated global research programme.
The exam covers all four language skills (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) and knowledge of grammar and vocabulary.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Target: Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with tasks that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Target: Requires you to be able to produce different pieces of writing, such as letters, reports, reviews and essays.
Duration: 40 minutes
Target: Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as news programmes, presentations and everyday conversations.
Duration: 14 minutes
Target: Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face to face situations. You will take the Speaking test with one or two other candidates.
Ready for Exam-Assessment
Would you like to clarify whether or not you already are at the right level to take the Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCEfs) exam? Ask us for our Ready for Exam-Assessment (free of charge) and a personal consultation!
The exams at The Cambridge Institute are computer-based, which means that you can take the Reading and Use of English, Writing and Listening conveniently on the computer.
To be fully prepared on the exam day, please be so kind as to familiarise yourself with the following video tutorial as well as the computer-based sample tests: