Preparation

Free: Paper-based sample test

Download a complete set of papers for the B1 Business Preliminary exam. The folders include:

• Listening paper, with tapescript, audio files and answer key.
• Reading and Writing paper, with Reading answer key.
  There is no Writing answer key, but we have added sample answers and examiner comments from the Business Handbook for teachers for Test 1.
• Speaking test tasks.
  There is no Speaking answer key, but we have included the assessment scales. Please refer to the relevant section in the Business Handbook for teachers for more information on the Speaking test.

Download sample papers for B1 Business Preliminary

Free: Computer-based sample tests

You will need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests. You can download Firefox for free here. Once downloaded, open Firefox and use the links below to view the tests.

Watch this tutorial before you start to help you understand what you need to do.

Check your answers as you do the test. Once the test has finished you will not be able to check them.

Reading and Writing sample test

Listening sample test

Use the answer keys below:

Reading answer key

Listening answer key

There is no answer key for the Writing paper, but there are sample answers and examiner comments in the relevant pages of the Business Handbook for teachers.

Writing Practice

Want to practice your written English? Write & Improve gives you feedback in seconds.

Write and Improve does not currently contain specific Business-related writing topics, it is still a fantastic way to improve your writing skills.

Free: English practice

Practise your English with our free online activities. We have activities for reading, writing, listening, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. 

Search for free English activities

Speaking test information

You can watch a full B1 Business Preliminary Speaking Test with Examiner Commentary here

Download a sample Speaking test worksheet for students from the B1 Business Preliminary Speaking test preparation pack.

Download B1 Business Preliminary speaking test worksheet

You can also watch a 360⁰ of a full B1 Business Preliminary speaking test.

Watch the 360⁰ video

Information for candidates

A guide to the exam, with advice on preparing for the exam, tips for exam day and useful links.

Download B1 Business Preliminary information for candidates

Vocabulary list

This list gives teachers a guide to the vocabulary needed when preparing students for B1 Business Preliminary.

Download the B1 Business Preliminary vocabulary list

Summary regulations for candidates

All the important information you need to know when taking the exam.

Download Summary regulations for candidates

Exam day tips and FAQs

Exam day tips – paper-based exams

Exam day tips – computer-based exams

B1 Business Preliminary FAQs

Official Cambridge English preparation materials

You can find a wide range of official Cambridge English support materials from Cambridge Assessment English and Cambridge University Press. Support materials include coursebooks and practice tests and include materials in both print and digital formats.