Cambridge | B1 Preliminary

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.

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 digital exam.

Listening Time: approximately 30 minutes

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

Reading Time: 45 minutes

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

Writing Time: 45 minutes

• B1 Preliminary Digital Writing Sample Test (online)

Free Paper-based sample test

Download sample papers for B1 Preliminary

Reading & Use of English resources

Quiz your English is a fun new way to practise, improve, and test your English by competing against learners from all around the world. Practise with friends, building vital language skills in the process, and test yourself in a truly global environment. Download this app!

Writing resources

Go to Writing resources

Listening resources

Go to Listening resources

Speaking resources

• B1 Preliminary speaking test - Kenza and Mohammed (video)
• Speaking test examiner comments (PDF)

Vocabulary resources

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

Free English practice

Free online activities for reading, writing, listening, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. Search for free English activities