Cambridge | B1 Preliminary for Schools

New information for candidates booklet

Download the Information for candidates booklet, with lots of exam preparation advice, tips and links to resources:

Free Computer-based sample tests - current sample tests

You will need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests. You can download Firefox for free. Once downloaded, open Firefox and use the links below to view the tests.

Watch this tutorial before you start to help you understand what you need to do.

Check your answers as you do the test. Once the test has finished you will not be able to check them.

• Reading sample test
• Writing sample test
• Listening sample test

Use the answer key below

• Reading answer key (PDF)
• Listening answer key (PDF)
• There is no answer key for the Writing sample paper.

Free Digital sample tests - effective as of April 1, 2024

New sample tests will be implemented for exams beginning April 1, 2024. Cambridge will upgrade from computer-based exams to an improved digital platform - Cambridge English Qualifications Digital. Find out more about digital assessment and its many benefits.

Watch the tutorial to understand how to complete a B1 Preliminary for Schools digital exam.

Listening Time: approximately 30 minutes

• B1 Preliminary for Schools Digital Listening Sample Test (online)
• B1 Preliminary for Schools Sample 1 answer key (PDF)
• B1 Preliminary for Schools Sample 1 tapescript (PDF)

Reading Time: 45 minutes

• B1 Preliminary for Schools Digital Reading Sample Test (online)
• B1 Preliminary for Schools Reading Sample 1 answer key (PDF)

Writing Time: 45 minutes

• B1 Preliminary for Schools Digital Writing Sample Test (online)

Free Paper-based sample test

Download sample papers for B1 Preliminary for Schools

Vocabulary list

This list gives teachers a guide to the vocabulary needed when preparing students for B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools. Download B1 Preliminary vocabulary list

Speaking resources

• B1 Preliminary for Schools speaking test - Roberto and Simone (video)
• Speaking test examiner comments (PDF)

Free online activities

We have activities for reading, writing, listening, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary.

Games and social media

Games, videos and social networking are all great ways to improve your English. Find out what is available from Cambridge Assessment English.