Difficulty level: B2 /Upper Intermediate
The First Certificate in English is the most important of the Cambridge exams.

What is the Cambridge First test like?
The test has four sections:

1. Reading & Use of English -75 minutes
2. Writing - 2 essays, 80 minutes
3. Listening - 40 minutes
4. Speaking - interview, normally with another candidate, 14 minutes

Paper-based or computer-based exams
You can do the FCE exam on a computer or on paper.

Score
A, B, C (pass), D, E or U (fail)
FCE A grade pass is accepted for entry to some universities

Level
B2 / Upper intermediate. Click here to see a comparison of FCE scores with other exams.

Where do I take the test?
Arrange with your closest test centre.

When can I take the test?
The FCE test can be taken most months in either paper-based or computer-based format. The paper-based test can be taken in March, May, June, August and December. The computer-based test can be taken in February, April, July, August and November. Not all test centres will administer both types of test.