B1 Preliminary for Schools
B1 Preliminary for Schools, formerly known as Cambridge English: Preliminary for Schools (PET for Schools), is one of our Cambridge English Qualifications. It is the English language exam that shows that students have mastered the basics.
A B1 Preliminary for Schools qualification shows that a student can:
- read simple textbooks and articles in English
- write letters and emails on everyday subjects
- understand factual information
- show awareness of opinions and mood in spoken and written English.
Key facts
| Scale score | 180 – 199 |
| Test format | computer or paperbased |
| Exam length | approx. 4 hours |
| Exam costs | Click here |
B1 Preliminary for school – explained
Reasons to choose B1 Preliminary for School
Easily integrated into a school’s curriculum.
Part of a suite of exams that offer step-by-step progression for students.
Comprehensive support in exam preparation and administration.
Exam Format – Overview
| Paper | Content | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Reading (45 minutes) |
6 parts / 32 questions | Shows you can read and understand the main points from signs, newspapers and magazines. |
| Writing (45 minutes) |
2 parts / 2 questions | Shows you can use vocabulary and structure correctly. |
| Listening (30 minutes, including 6 minutes transfer time) |
4 parts / 25 questions | You have to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials including announcements and discussions about everyday life. |
| Speaking (12-17 minutes per pair of candidates) |
4 parts | Shows how good your spoken English is as you take part in conversation by asking/answering questions and talking, for example, about your likes and dislikes. Your Speaking test will be conducted face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable. |
Preparation Materials
Dates
Further Support
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