How can I improve my performance?

It is very important that you learn the exam techniques and get used to the time limits by doing several past papers. Our Information Centres can help you by lending exams preparation materials.

Try to avoid studying the night before, it will make you tired and may lead to underperformance. Make sure you know the exact location of the exam venue and arrive before the starting time so that you are less pressed.



HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY PERFORMANCE?


During the examination:

read the instructions carefully and make sure you answer the correct number of questions
read all the questions carefully
try to follow the recommended time per question, otherwise you may not be able to finish all the tasks
don’t be afraid if you come across a difficult task – other people will face the same situation - calm down, you can answer it
try to leave enough time to go over your work
don’t leave early – use the extra time to go over your answers.

First Certificate: The Exam

CONTENTS


Reading (60 minutes)
Writing (80 minutes)
Use of English (45 minutes)
Listening (40 minutes)
Speaking (15 minutes)


AVAILABLE SESSIONS


December

June


Marking and Issue of Results

All completed exam papers are returned to Cambridge for marking. The examiners are English-teaching specialists with relevant experience at the appropriate level. Examiners are trained, their work is continuously monitored and checked by highly experienced senior examiners as they work.

There are five possible grades for FCE: A, B and C are 'pass' grades; D and E are 'fail' grades. The grade is based on the candidate's total score in all the papers. Nine weeks after the exam all candidates receive a Statement of Results giving the overall grade and including a graphical display of the candidate's performance in each component. These are shown against the scale Exceptional - Good - Borderline - Weak. Certificates are issued to successful candidates approximately four months after the exam.