Exams
B2 First (FCE)
B2 First (commonly referred to as FCE) demonstrates that a candidate has the English skills required to live, work, or study independently in an English-speaking environment.
Who the exam is for
Suitable for learners preparing for higher education, professional contexts, or international mobility where upper-intermediate English is required.
- CEFR level: B2
- Exam duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
- Number of papers: 4
Exam Format
Reading and Use of English (1 hour 15 minutes)
Content
7 parts / 52 questions
Marks(% of total)
25%
Purpose
Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with tasks that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary.
Listening (40 minutes)
Content
4 parts / 30 questions
Marks(% of total)
25%
Purpose
Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as news programmes, presentations and everyday conversations.
Speaking (14–20 minutes)
Content
4 parts
Marks(% of total)
25%
Purpose
Shows how good your spoken English is as you take part in conversation by asking / answering questions and discussing topics.
Writing (1 hour 20 minutes)
Content
2 parts
Marks(% of total)
25%
Purpose
Requires you to be able to produce two different pieces of writing, such as letters, reports, reviews and essays.
Exam Schedule
| Exam | Exam date | Sitting | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Certificate in English (PB) | 16/05/2026 | AM | 06/04/2026 |
| First Certificate in English (PB) | 10/10/2026 | AM | 01/09/2026 |
| First for Schools Digital (PB) | 01/05/2026 | 22/04/2026 | |
| First Certificate in English for Schools (PB) | 11/04/2026 | AM | 03/03/2026 |
| First Certificate in English for Schools (PB) | 19/09/2026 | AM | 10/08/2026 |
How to register
1. Select Your Exam
2. Complete Pre-Registration
Submit your Pre-registration form with your personal details exactly as they should appear on your certificate.
Important note:
An exam session will only take place if a minimum of seven candidates are registered for a specific date.
- Your details will be added to a waitlist
- We will contact you with the full registration and payment process only if the minimum number is met, prior to the registration deadline
3. Payment of Fees
Examination fees must be paid in full for your registration to be confirmed. Payment link will be sent you on completion of Registration form
4. Confirmation of Entry
Once registered, candidates will receive a Confirmation of Entry, including:
- Candidate number
- Test instructions
- Exam schedule
Results and Certificates
Results are released by Cambridge English according to the official results timetable.
- Digital exams: Results typically available within 5–10 working days after the exam date
- Paper-based exams: Results are usually released within 4–6 weeks after the exam date