B2 Business Vantage (BEC V)

B2 Business Vantage (BEC V)

B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) is an upper-intermediate level of English.

Exam Information

What is B2 Business Vantage (BEC V)?

The B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) exam is for individual learners who want to have a business-related English language qualification at Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). By taking an internationally recognised business qualification like B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) candidates can show that they have learned English to an appropriate standard and can use it in a professional context.

Who takes Cambridge B2 Business Vantage?

More than ever, a good knowledge of English is needed to succeed in international business and commerce. The B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) exam is taken by professionals with a good education in English and is a popular qualification with employers.

In Switzerland, B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) is used as the final school-leaving exam after HF programs (Höhere Fachschulen) in the field of Business or related fields. B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) is also used in the corporate sector by candidates who want to enhance their English skills to CEFR B2 level, with a particular focus on business English.

Why to take B2 Business Vantage?

Many companies in Switzerland recognise B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) as a full B2 qualification. B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) is also a solid basis to prepare for the next level Cambridge English exam (Level C1) such as C1 Business Higher (BEC H) or C1 Advanced (CAE).

Format of the exam

You can take your Cambridge exam in two ways: on a computer or on paper.

Paper Content Marks (%of total) Purpose
Reading (1 hour) 5 parts 25% Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as business publications and correspondence.
Writing (45 minutes) 2 parts 25% Requires you to be able to produce two different pieces of writing, such as letters, reports, proposals and emails.
Listening (about 40 minutes, including transfer time) 3 parts 25% Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as interviews, discussions and presentations.
Speaking (14 minutes per pair of candidates) 3 parts 25% Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations. You will take the Speaking test with one or two other candidates.

Preparation material

Preparation material

Preparation material for students and teachers

FAQ

FAQ

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