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You are here:

  1. Cambridge English
  2. Exams and tests
  3. Cambridge English Qualifications
  4. B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary

B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary

  • Cambridge English Qualifications
    • Young learners (Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers, A2 Flyers)
    • A2 Key for Schools and A2 Key
    • B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary
      • Exam format
      • Preparation
    • B2 First for Schools and B2 First
    • C1 Advanced
    • C2 Proficiency
    • Ways to take Cambridge English Qualifications
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Proof that learners have practical language skills for everyday use

B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary are qualifications that show learners have mastered the basics of English and have practical language skills for everyday use.

The exams test all four English language skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking.

This exam is the logical step in a student’s language learning journey between A2 Key for Schools or A2 Key and B2 First for Schools or B2 First.

How to get started

Key facts

CEFR level: B1 what's this?
Scale score: 140–159 what's this?
Test format: digital or paper-based
No. of papers: 4
Exam length: about 2 hours 20 minutes

B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary: what’s the difference?

B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary are at the same CEFR level and follow the same format. However, B1 Preliminary for Schools is tailored to the interests and experience of school-age learners, while B1 Preliminary is designed for adults.


Students walking in a colorful school hallway holding books.

B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary show 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
Cartoon child in a fantasy landscape with playful creatures.

Two people walking together, useful for B1 English practice.

  • Helps students gain the language skills they need to succeed in study and work, at home or abroad
  • Easily integrated into a school’s curriculum
  • Comprehensive support in exam preparation and administration
  • A valuable qualification that is accepted worldwide

 

Ways to take your Cambridge English Qualifications

Our digital exams offer an enhanced candidate experience and faster results. Or, for a more traditional route, we continue to offer our paper-based exams. It’s the same qualification and there’s no need to change the way you prepare.

Find out more


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