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What is C1 Advanced (CAE)?
C1 Advanced (CAE) is an official Cambridge English examination at an advanced level requiring competence in all the language skills, set at level C1 of the Council of Europe's Common Framework of Reference for Languages.
At C1 level typical users can:
- contribute effectively to meetings and seminars within own area of work or keep up a casual conversation with a good degree of fluency coping with abstract expressions
- read quickly enough to cope with an academic course, and CAN take reasonably accurate notes in meetings or write a piece of work which shows an ability to communicate effectively at a managerial and professional level
Who takes C1 Advanced (CAE) Cambridge exam?
C1 Advanced (CAE) is a widely taken exam Cambridge English Exam in Switzerland. C1 Advanced (CAE) is used as a school-leaving exam at higher educational levels (Gymnasium, higher education such as Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences, Pädagogische Hochschulen, etc.). C1 Advanced (CAE) is also used in the corporate sector and is an asset to every CV. It improves every application where higher level English language skills are required.
How is C1 Advanced (CAE) recognised?
C1 Advanced (CAE) is recognised as entry or school-leaving qualification at various educational levels (e.g. KV M-Profile, Gymnasium, institutions of higher education etc.). Many companies today require C1 Advanced (CAE) as the minimum requirement in regard to English language competence which makes C1 Advanced (CAE) a qualification beyond the general requirements, helping successful candidates to differentiate themselves from other applications in their search for employment. There are many companies and corporations in Switzerland who recognise C1 Advanced (CAE) as a qualification demonstrating very good language competence.
Format of the exam
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Paper |
Content | Marks (%of total) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reading and Use of English |
8 parts/ 56 questions |
40% | Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with different types of exercise that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary. |
|
Writing |
2 parts | 20% | You create two different pieces of writing, such as essays, letters/emails, proposals, reports and reviews. |
|
Listening |
4 parts/ 30 questions |
20% | Tests your ability to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as interviews, radio broadcasts, presentations, talks and everyday conversations. |
|
Speaking |
4 parts | 20% | Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face–to–face situations. You will take the Speaking test with another candidate. |
Please click here for further details about the exam format.
Flexible Test Options
The C1 Advanced (CAE) exam can be taken as a standard test (paper-based / PB) or as a computer-based (CB) exam. The exam content is exactly the same, it is only the delivery mode (paper-based / computer-based) which is different. There are different dates and exam locations for the PB or CB exams.
Registration, Dates and Prices
Exams are offered all over Switzerland, however, locations and dates may vary. Please check all available Advanced (CAE) exam dates and prices by clicking on the following link.
Overview exam dates and prices
How can a student prepare for C1 Advanced (CAE) Cambridge English exam?
There are many schools across Switzerland which offer preparation courses for Cambridge English exams. These schools can be found on our recommended school list.
In our online shop various preparation material is available which can enhance exam preparation and support any student in his/her aim to succeed in a Cambridge English exam.
Supporting Material
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Advanced Handbook for Teachers order here The focus is on each paper, including content and advice on preparation. |
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Trainer for Advanced order here This CAE Trainer includes six practice tests with answers and teacher's notes. |
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Advanced 1 self-study pack order here This set of tests provides exam preparation, allowing candidates to familiarise themselves with the content of the Cambridge English: Advanced exam and to practise exam techniques. |
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Grammar and Vocabulary for Advanced order here Comprehensive coverage of the grammar and vocabulary for Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) also includes plenty of exam practice. |
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Advanced Vocabulary in Use order here English Vocabulary in Use Advanced is fully aligned to the needs of English language learners at C1-C2 level, so it will help you learn the words and phrases you require. |