Cambridge English · CEFR C1
C1 Advanced (CAE) Exam in the UAE
C1 Advanced is a high-level Cambridge English qualification proving you have the advanced English skills required for academic and professional success.
CEFR C1
About 4 hours
4 papers
Digital
Who the exam is for
Is C1 Advanced Right for You?
Designed for learners who need to demonstrate a high level of English for university study, professional employment or other advanced academic and workplace contexts.
C1
CEFR level
~4 hrs
Exam duration
4
Number of papers
Exam format
C1 Advanced Exam Format
Four papers, each worth 25% of the total mark.
Reading and Use of English
1 hour 30 minutes
Content
8 parts · 56 questions
Marks
25%
Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines, and tests how well you control grammar and vocabulary.
Writing
1 hour 30 minutes
Content
2 parts
Marks
25%
Requires you to produce two different pieces of writing, such as an essay, letter, report, proposal or review.
Listening
40 minutes
Content
4 parts · 30 questions
Marks
25%
Tests your ability to follow a range of spoken materials, such as interviews, radio broadcasts, presentations, talks and everyday conversations.
Speaking
15–23 minutes
Content
4 parts
Marks
25%
Shows how good your spoken English is as you ask and answer questions and discuss topics.
Exam schedule
Upcoming C1 Advanced Exam Dates
A session goes ahead only when at least seven candidates register for that date – pre-register early to secure your place.
Registration open
Exam date
Saturday, 14 November 2026
Register by: Thursday, 5 November 2026
Levels: C1 Advanced
Digital
Registering
How to Register for C1 Advanced
Select your exam
Complete pre-registration
Pay your fees
Confirmation of Entry
- Minimum of seven candidates: you’ll join a waitlist, and we’ll contact you with the full registration and payment process only once the minimum is met, before the registration deadline.
Results and certificates
When Will I Get My Results?
Results are released by Cambridge English according to the official results timetable.
5–10 working days
Digital exams
4–6 weeks
Paper-based exams
Guidance
C1 Advanced: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C1 Advanced (CAE) exam?
C1 Advanced is a high-level Cambridge English qualification proving you have the advanced English skills required for academic and professional success.
What CEFR level is C1 Advanced?
C1 Advanced is aligned with CEFR level C1.
How long is the C1 Advanced exam?
About 4 hours across four papers: Reading and Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes), Writing (1 hour 30 minutes), Listening (40 minutes) and Speaking (15–23 minutes).
How is the Speaking test conducted?
The Speaking test is taken face to face with examiners, usually alongside another candidate.
When will I get my C1 Advanced results?
Digital exam results are typically available within 5–10 working days. Paper-based results are usually released within 4–6 weeks of the exam date.
Is there a minimum number of candidates?
Yes. A session takes place only if at least seven candidates register for that date. You’ll join a waitlist and we’ll contact you with registration and payment details once the minimum is met.
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Ready to Take C1 Advanced?
Pre-register for the next session or talk to our exams team about your level.