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Prove you can use English effectively in everyday situations for work, study, and travel
B1 Preliminary, formerly known as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET), is an intermediate-level qualification that shows you can use English in everyday situations. It’s the logical step for learners who have mastered the basics and are building practical skills.
Achieving B1 Preliminary demonstrates that you can understand the main points of clear texts, deal with most situations while traveling, and communicate about familiar topics and personal interests.
Demonstrates you can use English in real-world situations
Required by some schools and colleges for admission
Shows employers you have functional English skills
Proves you can handle most travel situations independently
Prepares you for B2 First and higher levels
Accepted for some visa categories worldwide
B1 Preliminary is ideal if you:
B1 Preliminary comes in two versions with identical format and difficulty, but different topics:
B1 Preliminary: General topics suitable for adults and working professionals
B1 Preliminary for Schools: School-related topics for teenage learners
Both certificates are equally recognized. Choose based on which topics feel most natural to you.
Understanding the B1 Preliminary structure
Duration: 45 minutes
Parts: 6 parts / 32 questions
Content:
Tests ability to read and understand texts from notices, newspapers, and magazines
Duration: 45 minutes
Parts: 2 parts
Content:
Tests ability to write emails and express opinions on familiar topics
Duration: About 30 minutes (including 6 minutes to transfer answers)
Parts: 4 parts / 25 questions
Content:
Tests understanding of spoken English in various everyday situations
Duration: 10-12 minutes
Format: Face-to-face with 2 candidates and 2 examiners
Parts:
Tests ability to communicate in spoken English in everyday situations
Take your exam on a computer with faster results (typically 2 weeks). Type your Writing answers and complete Reading and Listening on screen.
Traditional format with paper and pencil, results in about 4 weeks.
Same difficulty, same recognition, same certificate. The Speaking test is always face-to-face.
B1 Preliminary uses the Cambridge English Scale, which shows your exact level of achievement. Scores are reported for each skill (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) and overall.
| Grade | Score | CEFR Level | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade A | 160-170 | B2 | Pass with Distinction |
| Grade B | 153-159 | B1 | Pass with Merit |
| Grade C | 140-152 | B1 | Pass |
| Level A2 | 120-139 | A2 | Not passed (A2 certificate issued) |
At B1 level, you can:
Exceptional performance! You've demonstrated B2 level ability. Your certificate will show you achieved Level B2.
Good performance at B1 level. You've clearly achieved the skills required for B1 Preliminary.
You've passed and achieved B1 level. Your certificate confirms your B1 proficiency.
You demonstrated A2 level ability but didn't reach B1. You'll receive a certificate showing A2 achievement (Cambridge English Key level).
Tips and resources to help you succeed
Access comprehensive preparation materials directly from Cambridge University Press and Assessment:
Complete preparation resources, guidance, and official materials for the exam.
Practice with official sample papers for each section of the exam:
Comprehensive online exam preparation and practice tests:
Online platform offering practice tests, study materials, and exam preparation resources for Cambridge English qualifications.
Use official Cambridge preparation materials:
Free and paid online tools:
Recommended preparation timeline:
Focus on everyday topics like travel, work, hobbies, and social situations
Even 20-30 minutes daily is better than occasional long sessions
Watch English videos, read articles, and try to think in English
Practice completing tasks within exam time limits
Review practice test errors carefully to improve
Find a language partner or join English conversation groups
Practice writing emails and short texts on various topics
Set realistic goals and track your progress
Recognized by educational institutions:
Valued by employers worldwide:
Accepted for visa applications:
B1 Preliminary is an excellent achievement and opens doors to many opportunities. After passing B1 Preliminary, you’re ready to:
The next level for university admission and professional advancement
Many positions requiring English communication accept B1 level
Handle most situations in English-speaking countries
Build on your solid foundation to reach higher levels
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