B2 First (FCE)
- Level B1
- 140–159
- Grade C
- 160–172
- Grade B
- 173–179
- Grade A
- 180–190
Grades A, B and C are passes.
The exam in brief
- Level
- B2
- Length
- about 3 hours 30 minutes
- Format
- paper-based or digital
- Speaking test
- in a pair with one other candidate, with two examiners
- Fee
- €229
- Results
- digital exam: 5 to 10 working days; paper-based: 4 to 6 weeks
- Recommended for
- pupils aged 15 and over (secondary school), university students and adults
What the certificate shows
The B2 First certificate shows that you use English independently: you understand the main ideas of more complex texts, you speak fluently and without preparation, and you write clearly and in detail.
Cambridge states that thousands of companies and educational institutions around the world accept it, among other things for foundation years and for undergraduate degrees taught in English in countries where English is not the first language.
A candidate who passes the exam can
- communicate independently in everyday settings and give reasons for their views
- follow the news and lectures in English
- write clearly and in detail: essays, letters, reports, reviews
- set out the advantages and disadvantages of different points of view
What the exam consists of
| Paper | Time | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Use of English | 75 minutes | 7 parts, 52 questions |
| Writing | 80 minutes | 2 parts |
| Listening | about 40 minutes | 4 parts, 30 questions |
| Speaking | 14 minutes per pair | 4 parts |
B2 First for Schools
B2 First 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 secondary school students B2 First is a natural goal: the higher level of the state school-leaving exam (državna matura) in English is also at level B2, so both exams call for the same knowledge, although their formats differ. For university students and people in work it serves as proof of their English for an exchange, a degree or a job.
If you are thinking of studying at a university abroad, check whether it asks for level C1. The guide B2 First or C1 Advanced compares the two.
How to prepare
Cambridge reckons on about 500 to 600 hours of guided learning from beginner level to reach B2, which means about 200 hours after level B1. If you are already at level B2, you need to get to know the format and practise writing and speaking.
- At a language school in your town: preparation centres.
- On our 30-hour course in Zagreb: preparation courses.
- How to study and what to watch out for: the guide How to prepare for B2 First and C1 Advanced.
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.
Questions about the exam
Is B2 First the same as FCE?
Yes. The exam used to be called First Certificate in English, FCE for short. Its name today is B2 First, and the certificate and the level are the same as before.
What score do I need to pass?
For a level B2 certificate you need a score of 160 on the Cambridge English Scale (grade C). Grade B is from 173 to 179. With grade A, from 180 to 190, the certificate confirms level C1. With a score of 140 to 159 you receive a level B1 certificate.
What is the difference between B2 First and B2 First 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.
Can I get a place at a university abroad with B2 First?
It depends on the institution. Many accept B2 First, especially for foundation years and undergraduate degrees, and more demanding programmes ask for C1 Advanced. Always check the requirements on the website of the course or in the Cambridge search of institutions.
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.
Other exams
B1 Preliminary
Proof of practical English at level B1, for pupils in the final grades of primary school and in secondary school, and for adults.
- Length
- about 2 hours 20 minutes
- Fee
- €129
C1 Advanced
Proof of advanced English at level C1, for study abroad and demanding jobs.
- Length
- about 4 hours
- Fee
- €239