SOME INFORMATION ABOUT Cambridge First (2015)

Cambridge English: First (FCE) is a test of all areas of language ability.

The updated exam (for exam sessions from January 2015) is made up of four papers developed to test your English
language skills. You can see exactly whats in each paper below.
The Speaking test is taken face-to-face, with two candidates and two examiners. This creates a more realistic and
reliable measure of your ability to use English to communicate.
Paper Content Marks
(% of
total)
Purpose
Reading and Use
of English
(1 hour 15
minutes)
7 parts/52
questions
40% 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.
Writing
(1 hour 20
minutes)
2 parts 20% Requires you to be able to produce two different pieces of writing, such as
letters, reports, reviews and essays.
Listening
(about 40
minutes)
4 parts/30
questions
20% Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken
materials, such as news programmes, presentations and everyday
conversations.
Speaking
(14 minutes per
pair of candidates)
4 parts 20% Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations.
You will take the Speaking test with one or two other candidates.


From January 2015, Cambridge English: First (FCE) results will be reported on the new Cambridge English Scale
(replacing the current candidate profile and standardised scores).
You will receive a separate score for each of the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) and use of English,
giving you a clear understanding of your performance. These five scores are averaged to give you an overall result for
the exam. You will also be given a grade and Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level.









All candidates receive a Statement of Results, and if you are successful in the exam you will also receive acertificate.
Your Statement of Results contains the following information:
Your score on the Cambridge English Scale for each of the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) and
use of English
Your score on the Cambridge English Scale for the overall exam
Your grade (A, B, C, Level B1) for the overall exam
Your CEFR level for the overall exam. Depending on which university, college or organisation you are applying to,
you may be asked to achieve a specific score or grade, either overall or for a particular skill.
For Cambridge English: First, the following scores will be used to report results:
Cambridge English Scale Score Grade/CEFR CEFR level
180190 Grade A C1
173179 Grade B B2
160172 Grade C B2
140159 Level B1 B1
The exam is targeted at Level B2 of the CEFR. The examination also provides reliable assessment at the level above B2
(Level C1) and the level below (Level B1).
Scores between 122 and 139 are also reported for Cambridge English: First. You will not receive a certificate, but your
Cambridge English Scale score will be shown on your Statement of Results.