Reading component (1 hour; 25% of total marks) consists of 5 parts with the following task types: multiple choice, matching, Right/Wrong/Doesn't, multiple choice gap filling and form filling. Candidates are assessed as to their ability to understand a range of business texts. Types of texts include notices, graphs, routine business correspondence, advertisements, short factual texts and articles. To learn more about this part of exam and to download a sample paper click here.

This component (45 minutes; 25% of total marks) consists of 2 tasks. Candidates must be able to transfer information to a form, write memos, messages, letters and reports. To learn more about this part of exam and to download a sample paper click here.

The Listening component (ca 40 minutes; 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.

The standard format of the Speaking component (ca 14 minutes; 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.

Grades:

A - 80% and above

B - 75 - 79 %

C - 60 - 74%

CEFR* Level B1 - 45 - 59%

Fail - 44% and below

*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 B1 - for BEC Vantage exam.

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.