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Prove you have the language skills to live and work independently in an English-speaking country. The most widely recognized Cambridge English qualification.
B2 First for Schools is designed specifically for school-aged learners. It has the same format and level as B2 First, but the topics and content are targeted at the interests and experience of school students. It proves students have the language skills they need to communicate effectively in an English-speaking environment.
Secondary school students (typically 15-18 years old)
Students preparing for university study in English
Learners wanting to work in an international environment
Anyone needing to prove B2 level English for education or employment
Students building towards C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
B2 First is ideal if you:
Four papers testing all your English language skills
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Marks: 40% of total
Parts: 7 parts / 52 questions
What’s tested:
Reading for gist, detail, opinion, attitude, specific info, and implication. Grammar and vocabulary knowledge.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Parts: 20% of total
2 Parts | 2 Tasks
What’s tested:
Ability to write non-specialist texts such as essays, letters, reports, reviews, and articles for school-age audience.
Duration: About 40 minutes
Marks: 20% of total
4 Parts | 30 Questions
What’s tested:
Understanding of spoken English including interviews, discussions, conversations, and lectures on school-related topics.
Duration: 14 minutes
Marks: 20% of total
4 Parts | 2 Candidates
What’s tested:
Spoken interaction, ability to organize thoughts and express opinions, pronunciation, and communication skills.
| Grade | Score | CEFR Level | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade A | 180-190 | C1 | Pass at Grade A - certificate shows C1 level |
| Grade B | 173-179 | B2 | Pass at Grade B |
| Grade C | 160-172 | B2 | Pass at Grade C |
| Level B1 | 140-159 | B1 | Certificate showing B1 level (not a pass) |
| Below B1 | Below 140 | - | No certificate |
You've exceeded B2 level and demonstrated C1 level ability. Your certificate will show you achieved C1.
You've passed at B2 level. Both grades represent a pass, with Grade B being a higher score within B2.
You demonstrated B1 level ability but didn't reach B2. You'll receive a certificate showing B1 achievement.
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:
| Aspect | B2 First | B2 First for Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Level & Format | Identical - same B2 level, same test format | |
| Target Age | 16+ and adults | School students (typically 15-18) |
| Topics & Content | General adult themes (work, news, lifestyle) | School-related themes (education, hobbies, friends) |
| Difficulty | Exactly the same difficulty level | |
| Recognition | Both equally recognized worldwide | |
| Certificate | Both show "B2 First" (or C1 if Grade A achieved) | |
A secondary school student who finds school-related topics more familiar and relatable.
An adult learner, university student, or working professional.
Important: Both certificates are equally valid and recognized. The choice is based on which topics feel most natural to you.
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