C2 Proficiency
Published Aug 28th 2024
Before applying to a UK university, you'll need to show a high level of understanding of the English language This will be needed for your university application and your student visa.
What is the C2 Proficiency?
The C2 Proficiency is a Secure English Language Test (SELT). It's designed specifically for students looking to teach English as a foreign language in foreign schools. The test is also used as an English proficiency test for students looking to attend a UK university. The great thing about the C2 Proficiency? The results don't expire!
The C2 Proficiency is provided by Cambridge Assessment English.
What is the format of the C2 Proficiency?
Section | Part(s) | Questions | Tasks | Length |
Reading and Use of English | 7 | 53 | Parts 1-4: Focus on the actual use of English and test your knowledge of vocabulary and grammar. Parts 5-7: Reading texts and answering multiple-choice questions. | 90 mins |
Writing | 2 | N/A | Write essays, reports or reviews. | 90 mins |
Listening | 4 | 30 | Part 1: Listen to 3 unrelated recordings and answer 6 multiple-choice questions. Part 2: Listen to a 3-4 minute monologue and fill in the gaps. Part 3: Answer 5 multiple-choice questions about a short recording. Part 4: Answer 5 questions about 5 short monologues. | 40 mins |
Speaking | 3 | N/A | Part 1: A short conversation with your examiner. Part 2: A collaborative conversation with another candidate. Part 3: Deliver a long monologue and contribute to a group discussion. | 16 mins |
The test can be taken on paper or a computer. Speaking sections must be done in person.
Which universities accept the C2 Proficiency?
Many universities accept C2 Proficiency, but this list can change each year. You can check the Cambridge Assessment results recognition service to see who's currently accepting the C2 Proficiency.
How is the C2 Proficiency scored?
Your C2 Proficiency score is marked in line with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The C2 Proficiency Test grades are:
Grade | Cambridge Scale Score | CEFR Level |
A | 220-230 | C2 |
B | 213-219 | |
C | 200-212 | |
Level C 1 | 180-199 | C1 |
What's on my Statement of Results?
Your Statement of Results will have:
- Your score for each section
- Your overall grade
- Your score on the Cambridge English Scale
- Your CEFR level
There's a Statement of Results example on the CAE website. Depending on your results, you'll get your Certificate of Advanced English.
What certificate will I get?
Anyone who takes the C2 Proficiency will receive a Statement of Results. Those who score 180 and above will receive a certificate.
The certificate you'll get is:
- Score of 200-230: Certificate of Proficiency in English at Level C2
- Score of 180-199: Level C1 Certificate
Your certificate will be sent to the exam centre where you took the test and then on to you. Your results can also be sent to you online, but you'll need to register with Cambridge English Results online beforehand.
How much is the C2 Proficiency?
The fee will vary depending on where you sit the exam. Test centres set the fees for the C2 Proficiency, so you won't know the cost of the exam until you've applied. Fees can vary from anywhere between £175 and £230.
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