Cambridge English Exams FAQ

Specific questions

• How can I know which exam is best suited for me?

  Cambridge English offers a wide range of exams for all CEFR levels. You can start with a Online aptitude test to consult the Centre for an assessment.

• Is there an exam regulation?

  Of course, you can download it WHO

• Do the marking and assessment of candidates' exam papers with Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs) follow specific criteria, or are they carried out in compliance with the same criteria adopted for all other candidates?

  At present, the compensatory measures provided for candidates with Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs) are limited to the application of administrative arrangements or the use of specially adapted examination materials. In essence, these measures are applied exclusively at the time of the examination itself. A different assessment criterion for the written work is not provided. The available compensatory measures are listed to this page. The most frequently adopted ones for certified DSA candidates are:

  • additional time to complete the tasks required by the exam;
  • additional breaks between one task and another;
  • ability to write notes during the listening part;
  •  the possibility that the answers will be transcribed by an Examination Centre assistant (including any spelling errors).

• Where to buy official preparation books?

  IH Lecce Oxford Group, a Learning Partner of Cambridge University Press, provides official books for exam preparation. Contact us to receive advice on the most suitable texts.

• What is the difference between paper-based and computerised versions of exams?

  Both versions are equivalent, but the computerised method offers faster recording and publication times for results. The tests are carried out at authorised centres that adhere to the required standards.

• What is the difference between an Examination Centre and a Preparation Centre?

  An Examination Centre, such as IH Lecce Oxford Group, is authorised by Cambridge English to manage and administer exams. Preparation Centres, on the other hand, are responsible for training and collaborate with Examination Centres for candidate registration.

• What is the difference between a “STANDARD” exam and a “FOR SCHOOLS” version?

  There is a 'for Schools' version of some of our exams (for A2 Key, B1 Preliminary, and B2 First levels), which is just as valid as the standard certification. The only difference between a 'for Schools' version and a standard version is the subject matter, which is tailored for school-aged candidates. The certificate you receive, whether you pass a standard exam or a 'for Schools' exam, will only state the name of the exam and will not specify the version. For example, if you took A2 Key for Schools, your certificate will simply say A2 Key, exactly like the standard version.

  Exams for Schools have been designed so that the performance of younger candidates reflects only their language knowledge and is not influenced by other factors such as, for example, a lack of knowledge of the topics covered in some exam papers.

• Is it necessary to hold a certificate from the previous level to be eligible for the next level?

  It is not necessary to have a previous level certificate to present yourself for a higher level.

  However, Cambridge English exams are designed to gradually increase in difficulty: we therefore recommend moving from one level to the next, which will also allow you to become accustomed to the exam mechanics. Look here Our certification levels.

• I cannot attend the exam: can I get a refund/when can I retake the exam?

  Cambridge English permits a partial refund of the registration fee only to candidates who do not attend the exam due to illness, provable with a medical certificate, or in cases of serious family bereavement. Under no circumstances can your registration be transferred to another exam date: if you are absent for reasons other than those listed above, the fee paid for the exam will be forfeited entirely. These provisions are part of the official Cambridge Regulations, and by registering for the exam, each candidate confirms they have understood and accepted them.

• How long do exam results take to become available?

  The estimated times for the release of the results are:

  •  Around five to six weeks until paper-based exams.
  • Around 10 days until the Digital exams (taken on computer).

  Registering to the Results Online website, you will be able to download your Statement of Results (breakdown of scores obtained in each exam paper). To register you will need your personal ID Number and Secret Number codes, which were provided by the Authorised Examination Centre via your Confirmation of Entry.

  The official certificate, printed on headed paper and identifiable by anti-counterfeiting marks, is sent to the Cambridge Assessment Centre approximately 5 weeks after the release of results.