Cambridge Exams

The exam season is almost upon us again.
Well, in reality Cambridge exams take place all year round but the main ones are in May and June. If you are hoping to take one of the exams this summer you really should be making sure that you have a good study programme organized.

The exams available are:
PETS (Preliminary English Test):
A lower intermediate level exam which tests the language skills needed to survive in social and work situations in an English-speaking environment: PET is equivalent to B1 by the Common European Framework CEF)
FCE (First Certificate in English):
An exam at intermediate level, requiring competence in all the language skills. It is widely recognized by business and educational organizations throughout the world. FCE is equivalent with B2 level by the CEF.
CAE (Certificate in Advanced English):
Which indicates an advanced level of competence in English, is suitable for those who require English for professional or study purposes. It is also designed to encourage the development of the skills required to progress towards CPE. CAE is equivalent with C1 level by the CEF.
CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English):
The highest level of the main Cambridge ESOL examinations suite. It is an advanced exam focusing on the English language skills required for entry into British Universities and to meet business or academic standards overseas. CPE is equivalent with C2 level by the CEF.

The most important thing to remember about Cambridge exams is that knowing how to do the exams and what is expected of you is as important as your English ability. Simply having a English level isn't sufficient to pass, you need to be able to demonstrate the grammar forms, vocabulary and expressions demanded at your particular level as well as have an ability to manage and control your discourse both written and spoken. In the grammar paper there is a series of sections which test the flexibility and depth of your grammar knowledge, vocabulary, expressions and the general ability to use English; without training these sections are very difficult to pass.

The best way to pass the Cambridge exams is to enroll on a Cambridge exam preparation course which will teach the best way to tackle each paper. If you have taken one of the Cambridge examinations before, and feel confident that you are familiar with the way in which Cambridge exams work, it could be enough to work from one of the many excellent exam preparation books that are available, as these are usually filled with excellent tips. Additionally, however, the best option would be to find a good experienced teacher especially to help with the writing and speaking parts.

The Language Boutique specializes in helping students pass these exams, we have a good few years experience guiding people through the pitfalls and helping them to brush and tighten up their language. We demand a lot from our students; dedication and hard-work is needed especially for those wanting to do intensive sessions before the exams.