Certificate in Advanced English - Overview

Overview

The examination comprises five parts:

1. Reading (1 hour and 15 minutes)
2. Writing (1 hour and 30 minutes)
3. Use of English (1 hour)
4. Listening (40 minutes)
5. Speaking (15 minutes)

Each component carries 20% of the total marks. There are three pass grades (A, B and C) and certificates are awarded to candidates who achieve these grades. Candidates who achieve a grade D or E are judged not to have reached the required standard for CAE.

In the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, CAE is ranked at C1 and C2 levels. Candidates who have obtained an A grade are awarded a C2 certificate, those obtaining grade B or C, are awarded a certificate at C1. Like all the other Cambridge exams, once the exam is passed the qualification never expires. CAE is considered to be very valuable, and is a required qualification for international students applying to many British universities.