Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is a thorough test of all areas of language ability.
The updated exam (for exam sessions from January 2015) is made up of four papers developed to test your English language skills. You can see exactly what’s in each paper below.
The Speaking test is taken face-to-face, with two candidates and two examiners. This creates a more realistic and reliable measure of your ability to use English to communicate.
Exam format at a glance:
| Paper | Content | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes) | 8 parts/56 questions | Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with different types of exercise that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary. |
| Writing(1 hour 30 minutes) | 2 parts | You create two different pieces of writing, such as essays, letters/emails, proposals, reports and reviews. |
| Listening(about 40 minutes) | 4 parts/30 questions | Tests your ability to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as interviews, radio broadcasts, presentations, talks and everyday conversations. |
| Speaking(15 minutes per pair of candidates) | 4 parts | Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations. You will take the Speaking test with another candidate. |
Your overall performance is calculated by averaging the scores you achieve in Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking and Use of English. The weighting of each of the four skills and Use of English is equal.
The exam is available as a:
- paper-based test
- computer-based test
