B1 Preliminary (PET)

B1 Preliminary shows that you have mastered the basics of English and can use it when travelling, at school and at work. For pupils it is a sure step towards B2 First.

Apply for B1 Preliminary See the dates

Level A2: 120–139
Grade C: 140–152
Grade B: 153–159
Grade A: 160–170

Grades A, B and C are passes.

Level: B1
Length: about 2 hours 20 minutes
Format: paper-based or digital
Speaking test: in a pair with one other candidate, with two examiners
Fee: €129
Results: digital exam: 5 to 10 working days; paper-based: 4 to 6 weeks
Recommended for: pupils aged 14 and over (grade 8 of primary school and secondary school) and adults

What the certificate shows

The B1 Preliminary certificate shows practical language skills for everyday use: you understand the main points of a clear text or conversation on familiar topics, and you can express yourself about the things that interest you.

A candidate who passes the exam can

read simpler textbooks and articles in English
write a letter or an e-mail on everyday topics
take notes in a meeting or a lecture
express opinions, attitudes and moods, in speech and in writing

What the exam consists of

Paper	Time	Content	Share of the result
Reading	45 minutes	6 parts, 32 questions	25 %
Writing	45 minutes	2 parts	25 %
Listening	30 minutes	4 parts, 25 questions	25 %
Speaking	10–12 minutes per pair	4 parts	25 %

B1 Preliminary for Schools

B1 Preliminary for Schools is the same level and the same exam format, with topics suited to pupils. The certificate confirms the same level.

Who we recommend it for

For pupils B1 Preliminary is a clear goal halfway to B2 First. For adults it confirms that they can use English when travelling and in simpler situations at work.

The next step is B2 First.

How to prepare

Cambridge reckons on about 350 to 400 hours of guided learning from beginner level to reach B1, which means about 200 hours after level A2.

Pupils usually prepare at their language school: find a preparation centre.
In Zagreb we also prepare groups ourselves: preparation courses.
Not sure whether you are at level B1? Check your level.

Official Cambridge pages: Exam page, Sample tests and preparation materials

Dates and applying

Applications are accepted until the closing date shown with each session. After the closing date you can still apply up to ten days before the exam, for a late entry fee of €33, if there are places left.

No session is open for this exam at the moment. Write to us and we will tell you when we expect the next one. Write to us

All dates and fees

Questions about the exam

What is the difference between B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools?

The level and the format are the same. The for Schools version has topics that are familiar to pupils, and the standard version is written for adults. The certificate confirms the same level.

What score do I need to pass?

For a level B1 certificate you need a score of 140 on the Cambridge English Scale. With a score of 160 to 170 the certificate confirms level B2, and with 120 to 139 it confirms level A2.

When do the results arrive?

For the digital exam, results are available 5 to 10 working days after the exam. For the paper-based exam it is usually 4 to 6 weeks. You see your result on the Cambridge website for candidates, using the details from your Confirmation of Entry. More on the Results and certificates page.

How long is the certificate valid?

A Cambridge certificate does not expire. Even so, individual institutions decide for themselves how old a result they accept, so check with the place where you will hand in the certificate.