FCE
FCE is the third exam in the Cambridge exam series, assessing the ability to communicate confidently in English, both spoken and written. The exam suits anyone wishing to use English for work and study. To pass FCE, a candidate must be able to communicate easily with a native speaker on various topics without mutual strain, and be able to analyse and express their point of view.
If you want to work or study abroad, or dream of a career at an international company or organisation, FCE will help you reach your goal.
The FCE certificate is an internationally recognised document confirming above-average English proficiency.
The exam will also build your confidence and provide good motivation to move up to the next level - preparing for and taking the next Cambridge exams, Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE).
On the international scale the FCE exam level is B2 (Upper-Intermediate). Taking the exam requires above-average English knowledge; the ability to grasp the main idea of an unadapted text, communicate with a native speaker on various topics, and analyse and argue persuasively.
| FCE | Reading | Writing | Use of English | Listening | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 h | 1 h 20 min | 45 min | 40 min | 14 min |
| Weighting % | 20% | 20% | 20% | 20% | 20% |
- Reading consists of 3 parts and 30 questions. Total text length ~2,000 words. Tasks include matching against possible options, multiple choice, and filling gaps in a text.
- Writing consists of 2 parts. The writing section includes 2 tasks of 120-180 words each: the first task - writing a letter based on a text read; the second - one task chosen from five options: an article, essay, letter, story, report, or a task based on a set text. The second part includes a task requiring prior reading of so-called "set text options". For preparing for task 2 in 2014, the following texts can be used: L.P. Hartley: The Go-Between (Penguin Readers) and Sebastian Junger: The Perfect Storm (Macmillan Readers).
- Use of English consists of 4 parts and 42 questions. Tasks include filling gaps in a text, multiple choice, and word transformation and word-building.
- Listening consists of 4 parts and 30 questions. Possible tasks: multiple choice, form filling and sentence completion, matching against options, choosing from two or three possible options.
- Speaking consists of 4 parts. This part of the exam takes the form of a conversation between two examiners and two candidates at once. Tasks in this section include: an interview; a 1-minute individual story based on a prompt card; a joint task with the other candidate and discussion.
Each part of the exam counts for 20% of the total score. Candidates who pass receive the following grades:
- A (80-100%). Level C1
- B (75-79%). Level B2
- C (60-74%). Level B2
- D (55-59%)
- E (0-54%)
Results can be checked online
More information: FCE website.