KET - Cambridge Key English Test
KET (Key English Test)
Also known as A2 Key, this is a basic-level qualification from Cambridge English. It tests all four English language skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It's a great exam to take if you're new to learning English.
The exam is made up of three papers: Reading and Writing, Speaking, and Listening. Preparation time can vary greatly depending on your current level of English. On average around 200 guided learning hours are required to progress from one level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to the next.
PET - Preliminary English Test
PET (Preliminary English Test)
Also known as B1 Preliminary, this exam is a step up from KET. It tests your ability to read, write, listen, and speak English in everyday situations. It's a good choice if you have mastered the basics of English and now have practical language skills for everyday use.
The exam is made up of four papers developed to test your English skills. It's recommended to have around 200 guided learning hours to progress from one CEFR level to the next.
FCE - First Certificate in English
FCE (First Certificate in English)
Also known as B2 First, this exam is designed for students with upper-intermediate English skills. It's the most popular of the Cambridge English exams because B2 is often the minimum level required by university programs in English-speaking countries.
The exam is made up of four papers: Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. If you're starting at an upper-intermediate level of English, it's suggested that you prepare full-time for at least six weeks.
CAE - Certificate in Advanced English
CAE (Certificate in Advanced English)
Also known as C1 Advanced, this is an in-depth, high-level qualification that shows you have the language skills that employers and universities are looking for. It's the logical step in your language learning journey between B2 First and C2 Proficiency.
The exam is made up of four papers developed to test your English language skills. If you're at a C1 level, it's recommended to start preparing for the CAE exam no later than half a year before the exam’s date.
CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English
CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
Also known as C2 Proficiency, this is the highest-level Cambridge English Qualification. It proves that you can communicate with the fluency and sophistication of a highly competent English speaker.
The exam is made up of four papers developed to test your English language skills. The preparation time for the CPE exam can be quite long due to its high level of difficulty. On average it might take more than 2 years if you only rely on the course preparation hours.
IELTS - International English Language Testing System
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
This is a widely recognized English language proficiency test developed by the British Council. It measures your ability to listen, read, write, and speak in English. There are two versions of the IELTS: Academic (for those who want to study at a university at undergraduate or postgraduate level) and General Training (for those who want to do non-academic training or gain work experience in an English-speaking country). Additionally, applicants for UK citizenship and certain types of visa are required to prove that their English is at a certain level and IELTS is a recognised way of doing this.
This course is suitable for people in three types of situations. Firstly, people who need to improve on some skills such as IELTS writing, Business English or Medical English. Secondly, for some students who don’t have time to join longer courses and want to take on an intense course. Thirdly, it can be useful for student to prove their levels of English language.
The exam is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The ideal IELTS preparation time is a span of 6-8 weeks.