C2 Proficiency (CPE)
- Level C1
- 180–199
- Grade C
- 200–212
- Grade B
- 213–219
- Grade A
- 220–230
Grades A, B and C are passes.
The exam in brief
- Level
- C2
- Length
- about 4 hours
- Format
- paper-based or digital
- Speaking test
- in a pair with one other candidate, with two examiners
- Fee
- €249
- Results
- digital exam: 5 to 10 working days; paper-based: 4 to 6 weeks
What the certificate shows
The C2 Proficiency certificate shows that you understand with ease almost everything you hear and read, and that you express yourself precisely and without preparation, in complex situations too.
In Croatia, proof of language knowledge at level C2 is required of certified court interpreters, for example, and the regulations on the professional exam for tourist guides take account of internationally recognised language certificates. Regulations change, so check the requirements with the competent authority.
A candidate who passes the exam can
- follow the most demanding degree programmes, including doctoral study
- write complex texts, such as research papers
- negotiate, persuade and argue about complex topics
- understand nuance, style and figurative meaning
What the exam consists of
| Paper | Time | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Use of English | 90 minutes | 7 parts, 53 questions |
| Writing | 90 minutes | 2 parts |
| Listening | about 40 minutes | 4 parts, 30 questions |
| Speaking | 16 minutes per pair | 3 parts |
Who we recommend it for
We recommend it for people who need English at the highest level: translators, teachers of English, researchers and postgraduate students. For this exam we recommend preparing at a preparation centre or on a course.
How to prepare
Cambridge reckons on about 1,000 to 1,200 hours of guided learning from beginner level to reach C2. Preparation is above all work on writing and on precision of expression.
- At a language school in your town: preparation centres.
- In Zagreb: preparation courses.
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.
| Written papers | Exam | City | Speaking | Apply by | Fee | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 December 2026 | C2 Proficiencydigital | Split | 12/12/2026 | 1 December 2026Open for entries | €249 | Apply |
| 12 December 2026 | C2 Proficiencydigital | Zagreb | 11–12 December 2026 | 1 December 2026Open for entries | €249 | Apply |
Questions about the exam
Is C2 Proficiency the same as CPE?
Yes. The exam used to be called Certificate of Proficiency in English, CPE for short. Its name today is C2 Proficiency.
What score do I need to pass?
For a level C2 certificate you need a score of 200 on the Cambridge English Scale (grade C). Grade B is from 213 to 219, and grade A from 220 to 230. With a score of 180 to 199 you receive a level C1 certificate.
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
C1 Advanced
Proof of advanced English at level C1, for study abroad and demanding jobs.
- Length
- about 4 hours
- Fee
- €239
B2 First
Proof that you use English independently at level B2, for secondary school students, university students and people in work.
- Length
- about 3 hours 30 minutes
- Fee
- €229