Cambridge FCE / B2 First
B2 First is a Cambridge English qualification at upper-intermediate level (CEFR B2). This page outlines its structure, components, weightings, and practical test-day notes.
Quick facts
- CEFR level: B2 (upper-intermediate)
- Papers: 4 (Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, Speaking)
- Total time: ~3 hours 30 minutes (Speaking may be on another day)
- Format: Paper-based and computer-based; content and scoring are identical.
Components
Reading and Use of English are assessed together in one paper (grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension). Below: what each component tests, timing, weightings, and task types.
Reading & Use of English
Tests grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Parts 1–4 focus on Use of English; Parts 5–7 on reading.
Timing: 1 hour 15 minutes · Weighting: 40%
Parts: 7 parts, 52 questions. Examples: multiple-choice cloze, open cloze, word formation, key word transformation, multiple-choice reading, sentence insertion, multiple matching.
Writing
Tests ability to produce different text types: essay, report, review, letter, or article depending on task choice.
Timing: 1 hour 20 minutes · Weighting: 20%
Parts: 2 parts. Part 1: compulsory essay. Part 2: choice of article, email/letter, report, or review.
Listening
Tests understanding of broadcasts, interviews, discussions, and everyday conversations at natural speed.
Timing: ~40 minutes · Weighting: 20%
Parts: 4 parts, 30 questions. Recordings played twice; multiple-choice, sentence completion, and matching formats.
Speaking
Tests ability to sustain interaction, express opinions, and collaborate in discussion with a partner.
Timing: 14 minutes per pair · Weighting: 20%
Parts: 4 parts. Interview, long turn, collaborative task, and discussion. One examiner asks questions; another assesses.
Scoring & results
Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. You do not need to pass each paper separately; the overall grade is based on the weighted average across all four papers. Individual skill scores are provided. Grades range from A to C for a pass; Level B1 indicates performance below B2 but still certifiable.
Common candidate weakness patterns
Typical patterns observed at B2 First level:
- Use of English: failing to transform grammar correctly in key word tasks; wrong word class in word formation
- Reading: being caught by distractors; insufficient attention to qualifying phrases and negation
- Writing: essay structure unclear; failing to address both parts of the prompt; weak development of ideas
- Listening: missing detail on first play and not using the second play effectively
- Speaking: dominating or under-contributing in the collaborative task; scripted-sounding long turn
- Time pressure: running out of time in Reading & Use of English; rushing the essay in Writing
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