Reading / Writing

The BEC Preliminary Reading and Writing paper (1 hour 30 minutes) has seven parts for reading and two tasks for writing. There are different types of text and questions. To learn more about this part of exam and to download a sample paper click here.

Listening

The Listening component (ca 40 mins; 25% of the total marks) contains 3 parts with tasks including multiple choice, gap filling and listening for specific information. Candidates must be able to understand a range of dialogues and monologues from work-related situations. They are also expected to make sense of texts without necessarily understanding every word. The types of texts include: formal and informal exchanges, announcements, recorded messages, phone conversations, business presentations, interviews and discussions. To learn more about this part of exam and to download a sample paper click here.

Speaking

The standard format of the Speaking component (ca 12 mins; 25% of the total marks) is two candidates and two examiners. This component consists of 3 tasks. At lower levels candidates are expected to be able to talk about themselves and their work/studies as well as ask for, and give, non-personal information. To learn more about this part of exam and to download a sample paper click here.

What grades can I receive?

Grades

%

Pass with Distinction 85 – 100%*
Pass with Merit 80 - 84%
Pass 65 - 79 %
CEFR** Level A2 40 - 64%
Fail 39% and below

* certificate at B2 CEFR* Level

** CEFR = Council of Europe Framework of Reference

NEW!!!

In March 2011 University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations introduced an extended certification of its English language exams. Candidates taking the Cambridge English language exams who do not achieve a passing grade but have demonstrated language ability at the Council of Europe Framework of Reference level below the examination they have taken will be awarded a certificate showing that level. The following information will be given as the overall grade:

Council of Europe Level A2 - for BEC Preliminary exam.

How to prepare for BEC Preliminary?

A preparation course is not a requirement for those wanting to register for BEC, although candidates may find it beneficial to prepare for the examination under the guidance of an experienced teacher. You can register for a course in our Teaching Centre in Warsaw and Krakow or other language schools which run preparation courses.

Although many textbooks on the market cover general business English topics and not specific exam preparation, most of them are appropriate for those preparing for the BEC exams. For candidates wanting to practice their exam skills publishers have prepared Practice Tests for BEC. Books are available in most language bookshops in Poland. Preparation materials are also available in the British Libraries in Poland.