Exam content and processing

Cambridge English: First for Schools is a rigorous and thorough test of English at Level B2. It covers all four language skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking – and includes a fifth element focusing on the candidate’s understanding of the structure of the language. Preparing for Cambridge English: First for Schools helps candidates develop the skills they need to use English to communicate effectively in a variety of practical contexts.

A thorough test of all areas of language ability

There are four papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listeningand Speaking.

The Reading and Use of English paper carries 40% of the marks, while Writing, Listening, and Speaking each carry 20% of the marks. Detailed information on each test and sample papers follow later in this handbook, but the overall focus of each test is as follows:

 Reading and Use of English: 1 hour 15 minutes

Candidates need to be able to understand texts from publications such as fiction and

non-fiction books, journals, newspapers and magazines.

 Writing: 1 hour 20 minutes

Candidates have to show that they can produce two different pieces of writing:

a compulsory task in Part 1, and one from a choice of four in Part 2.

 Listening: 40 minutes (approximately)

Candidates need to show they can understand the meaning of a range of spoken material,

including lectures, radio broadcasts, speeches and talks.

 Speaking: 14 minutes

Candidates take the Speaking test with another candidate or in a group of three, and are

tested on their ability to take part in different types of interaction: with the examiner, with

the other candidate and by themselves.

Each of these four test components provides a unique contribution to

a profile of overall communicative language ability that defines what a

candidate can do at this level.

International English

English is used in a wide range of international contexts. To reflect this, candidates’ responses to tasks in Cambridge English exams are acceptable in all varieties and accents of English, provided they do not interfere with communication. Materials used feature a range of accents and texts from English-speaking countries, including the UK, North America and Australia. US and other versions of spelling are accepted if used consistently.

Marks and results

Cambridge English: First for Schools gives detailed, meaningful results. All candidates receive a Statement of Results. Candidates whose performance ranges between CEFR Levels B1 and C1 will also receive a certificate.

Grade A

Candidates sometimes show ability beyond Level B2. If a candidate achieves a grade A in their exam, they will receive the First Certificate in English stating that they demonstrated ability at Level C1.

Grade B or C

If a candidate achieves grade B or C in their exam, they will be awarded the First Certificate in English at Level B2.

CEFR Level B1

If a candidate’s performance is below Level B2, but falls within Level B1, they will receive a Cambridge English certificate stating that they demonstrated ability at Level B1.