Ways to take Cambridge English Qualifications

Students taking their Cambridge English Qualifications Digital exam in an exam hall

Choose between paper-based and digital exams

The exams have two formats: our enhanced digital experience or the traditional paper-based format. Cambridge English Qualifications Digital put the candidate in control of their test experience with features such as an on-screen timer, headphones for the Listening test, a word counter, and a notes and highlighter function. The qualification at the end is the same, but there are differences in the exam delivery, experience and timing.

Both our digital and paper-based tests are taken at an authorised exam centre, your school or an external venue – all under exam conditions. The Listening, Reading and Use of English, and Writing tests are taken via your chosen method, either digitally or paper-based, and the Speaking test remains face-to-face to test real-life language skills.

Differences between the paper-based and digital exams

⁠Features	Digital	Paper-based
Exam location	At an authorised exam centre, school or external venue
Availability	Up to 365 days a year*	Set dates (Key for Schools and Preliminary for Schools available up to 365 days a year*)
Registration	Up to 2 working days before exam date*	Approximately 4 weeks before exam date
Levels	A2 Key to C2 Proficiency
Exam setup	On computer (available on PCs, laptops and Macs)	On paper
Task types	Identical
Exam content	Questions randomly allocated	Same questions for all candidates
Results	5–10 working days after exam date	4–6 weeks after exam date
Speaking test	Face-to-face
Listening test	Headphones with volume control	Digital audio player
Reading and Writing test	Computer with keyboard, screen and mouse	Paper with a pen and pencil
Certificates	Paper certificate usually sent to the exam centre within 3–4 weeks	Paper certificate sent to the exam centre 7–10 weeks after the exam date

*Talk to your chosen exam centre about their schedule.

Learn more about our digital exams

Learn more about paper‑based exams

Find your nearest exam centre

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Which exam format should I choose?

This will depend on what the exam centre offers, and which format is preferable. There are many benefits of a digital exam and most candidates who take the exam this way recommend it.

Which format is easier?

As both tests are the same, neither is easier or more difficult. Some candidates feel more in control taking the digital exam as they can use headphones for the Listening paper, easily edit their writing, keep track of their word count, highlight text and add notes in the Reading test. The digital exam also has an on-screen timer, which many candidates find useful for time management.

How can I start offering these exams?

When you prepare and enter students for our exams, your school becomes a Cambridge English preparation centre. Preparation centres receive ongoing support from us, including preparation resources, training and marketing material.

Learn how to become a preparation centre