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Cambridge exams

B2 First: what it is and how to prepare

B2 First (formerly FCE) is a Cambridge exam that shows you can use English at B2 level: work, study and live in English.

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The four papers

B2 First papers
PaperWhat you doParts
Reading and Use of EnglishRead texts and fix grammar and vocabulary7
WritingAn essay, then an email, article, report or review2
ListeningShort and long recordings4
SpeakingWith another candidate and two examiners, about 14 minutes4

Cambridge updates its exams from time to time. Check the current format on the Cambridge English website before you register.

Scores and results

  • The scale runs from 140 to 190. 160 is a pass at B2.
  • 180 or more shows C1 level (grade A).
  • 140 to 159 shows B1 level, and you still get a certificate.
  • The certificate does not expire, though some institutions ask for a recent one.

How to prepare

  1. 1

    Know your level

    Take the level test. B2 First needs a solid B2, not a strong B1.

  2. 2

    Learn the tasks

    Each part has a task type. Practise each one until the format is boring.

  3. 3

    Speak every week

    Speaking is the paper that fades fastest without practice.

  4. 4

    Do timed mock exams

    Time is what surprises most candidates. Practise under exam conditions.

  5. 5

    Get feedback

    Errors you cannot hear yourself are the ones that cost marks.

Prepare with Pili

The B2 First course is 12 weeks: 24 live classes of 60 minutes, mock exams with feedback and a study plan for between classes. Pili prepares you for the exam. You register through an authorized Cambridge centre, which runs it.

Practice

Choose the word that fits each gap. This is Part 1 of the exam, at B2 level.

Choose the correct answer for each gap.

  1. 1. She has lived here ten years, and she still loves it.
  2. 2. He is very about his exam results.
  3. 3. Could you me a favour and close the window?
  4. 4. I'm looking forward you next week.
  5. 5. The manager insisted seeing the report today.
  6. 6. If it rains tomorrow, we stay at home.
  7. 7. There isn't milk left. I'll buy some.
  8. 8. I couldn't the answer, so I asked the teacher.

0 of 8 checked

Questions

Is B2 First the same as FCE?
Yes. FCE (First Certificate in English) is the old name. The current name is B2 First.
How long does it take to prepare?
A common rule of thumb is about 200 hours of guided study between levels. A B1 student can plan for a full course, about three months of weekly classes.
Which is harder, B2 First or C1 Advanced?
C1 Advanced is one level higher, with longer texts, harder tasks and a wider range of language.

Keep going

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