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This is a simple explanation of the tasks in the B2 First, or formally known as the FCE. The B2 First is an exam from Cambridge Assessment English that is at level B2 in the EUROPEAN FRAMEWORK FOR LANGUAGES

Key Data:

CEFR level: B2

Scale score: 160-179

Test format: Computer or paper based

Number of parts: 4

Exam length: 3.5 hours

The B2 First demonstrates that you can:

live and work independently

Communicate with confidence
Be part of a workforce
Express yourself fluently

The FCE consists of 4 different parts:

SEE EACH INDIVIDUAL POST FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT EACH PART

The Use of English and reading (1:15 minutes).

There are 7 parts in this section; 4 parts are Use of English and 3 are Reading.

The Use of English is basically an evaluation of your grammar and vocabulary. The 4 parts are always the same format and they are worth a total of 36 points.

The Reading assesses your ability to comprehend, scan and skim read, The 3 parts are always the same format and they are worth a total of 34 points.

Take a look at our example exercises and advice in more detail by clicking on the button.

USE OF ENGLISH

Writing (1:20):

The writing part of the exam lasts for 1 hour 20 minutes (80 minutes). In this time the candidates need to write two texts of 140-190 words.

There are 4 questions:

The 1st task is obligatory. You must do question 1 and it is always an essay. The topics are varied, but they are usually social issues such as the environment or the advantages/ disadvantages of something.

The 2^nd task is a choice; you can answer one question of 2, 3, 4. DO NOT ANSWER ALL OF THE QUESTIONS. The choices include: a letter (formal or informal), an email, a review, an article or a report. My suggestion is to focus on writing a formal or informal letter, a review and an article. The letter and the email are almost identical, so you cover both of them. The report is a little difficult because of the organisation and format.

Take a look at our example exercises and advice in more detail by clicking on the button.

Listening (30-40 minutes):

There are 4 parts in this section. You can read the questions and listen at the same time.

The listening is basically an evaluation of your ability to comprehend audios, fill in gaps with key information and understand opinions.

Take a look at our example exercises and advice in more detail by clicking on the button.

LISTENING

Speaking (12-14 minutes):

There are 4 parts in this section. You can will do the exam with a partner and you will be assessed on grammar and vocabulary, pronunciation, discourse management and interactive communication.

Take a look at our example exercises and advice in more detail by clicking on the button.