How to prepare for a Cambridge exam
At a language school
For those who still have learning to do before they reach the level of the exam. Preparation centres run courses through the school year and can enter their learners for the exam themselves.
Find a preparation centreOn a 30-hour course in Zagreb
For those who are at the level of the exam or close to it and do not attend a language school. The course is run by the exam centre and focuses on the exam itself.
Preparation courses in ZagrebOn your own
For those who are sure they are at the level of the exam. Cambridge publishes free sample tests for every exam; do at least one within the time allowed.
Materials on the Cambridge websiteFirst step: find out where you are
If you do not know your level, it is hard to choose either an exam or a way to prepare. The free level test takes 15 to 20 minutes.
How much time you need
Cambridge estimates how many hours of guided learning it takes to get from beginner to each level. The figures are approximate: they depend on how much you study, how much you use English and which languages you already speak.
Up to C1 there are on average about 200 hours between two neighbouring levels, and more from C1 to C2. How many school years that is depends on how many hours a week you study.
| Level | Exam | Hours of guided learning from beginner |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | A2 Key | 180–200 |
| B1 | B1 Preliminary | 350–400 |
| B2 | B2 First | 500–600 |
| C1 | C1 Advanced | 700–800 |
| C2 | C2 Proficiency | 1,000–1,200 |
Questions about preparation
Can I pass without a course?
Yes, if you are at the level of the exam. Then you need to get to know the format: do sample tests within the time allowed and ask someone to read your writing. For C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency we recommend preparing with a teacher.
How long before the exam should I start?
If you are at the level of the exam, you only need time to get to know the format and practise writing. If you are one level below, allow for about 200 hours of study, and more for C2.
Are there official materials?
Yes. Cambridge publishes sample tests for every exam, and handbooks for teachers as well. The links are on the page of each exam.