What is the B2 First?
Published Aug 6th 2024
The B2 First is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests in the world, with over 25,000 universities worldwide! Every year, thousands of international students take this test in hopes of studying in the UK.
What is the B2 First?
The B2 First is a Secure English Language Test (SELT). This qualification shows universities you can confidently communicate in English, testing your use of the English language across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The B2 First is provided by Cambridge Assessment English(CAE).
B2 First format
Section | Parts | Tasks | % of final grade | Length |
Reading and use of English | 7 | Multiple choice questions. Fill in the gaps and match statements. | 40% | 75 mins |
Writing | 2 | Part 1: Write an essay (the topic will be provided on the day). Part 2: Write an article, letter, or review (the topic will be provided on the day). | 20% | 80 mins |
Listening | 4 | Part 1: Multiple choice questions on unrelated recordings. Part 2: Listen to a monologue and write answers based on what you heard. Part 3: Listen to a series of statements and choose which written statement matches up with them. Part 4: 7 multiple choice questions about a recording. | 20% | 40 mins |
Speaking | 4 | Part 1: A short conversation with the examiner. Part 2: Speaking for 1 minute without interruption. Part 3: A two-way conversation with another candidate. Part 4: A discussion between the examiner and other candidates. | 20% | 14 mins |
Which universities accept the B2 First?
The B2 First exam is recognised by 25,000 universities internationally. You can check which UK universities will accept the B2 First on the Cambridge English website.
How is the B2 First scored?
You'll receive a Statement of Results detailing your scores which will include 4 separate scores for each section of the test. Your score is marked in line with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The B2 First scoring system is:
Grade | Cambridge English Scale Score | CEFR Level |
A | 180-190 | C1 |
B | 173-179 | B2 |
C | 160-172 | |
CEFR Level B1 | 140-159 | B1 |
What's the passing score for the B2 First?
160 or above is considered to be a pass. Your university may have a different score threshold for you to hit, so make sure you check their university entry requirements first.
What's on my Statement of Results?
Your Statement of Results will have:
- Your score across the four sections
- Your overall score
- Your grade
- Your CEFR level for the exam
What certificate will I get?
The certificate you'll get will depend on your score.
The certificates are:
- Score of 180+: Cambridge English Certificate
- Score of 160+: Cambridge First Certificate
- Score between 140 and 159: B1 English certificate
- 139 or lower: No certificate
You can find your scores online, by signing up for the Cambridge English results service.
Certificates are sent to exam centres within three months of the exam, who'll then send it on to you. Your results don't expire, but universities and employers can change how long they accept results for, so check with them beforehand.
How much is the B2 First?
The prices change depending on where you're from and where you're sitting the exam. You won't know the overall cost until you actually apply.
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