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What is C1 Business Higher (BEC H)?
The C1 Business Higher (BEC H) certifies that candidates are at the same level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Level C1) as those taking the C1 Advanced (CAE), with emphasis on Business English. Candidates are able to use the language in their professional environment in a practised, focused and competent manner.
Who takes C1 Business Higher (BEC H)?
In Switzerland, C1 Business Higher (BEC H) is used as the final school-leaving exam after HF programmes (Höhere Fachschule) or (Fachhochschule) in the field of Business or related fields. C1 Business: Higher (BEC H) is also used in the corporate sector by candidates who want to enhance their English skills to CEFR Level C1, with a particular focus on business English.
How is the official C1 Business Higher (BEC H) certificate recognised?
Many companies in Switzerland recognise C1 Business Higher (BEC H) as a full CEFR C1 qualification. C1 Business Higher (BEC H) is also a solid basis to prepare for the next level (Level C2) Cambridge English exam the C2 Proficiency (CPE).
Format of the exam
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Paper |
Content | Marks (%of total) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reading |
6 parts | 25% | Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text. |
|
Writing |
2 parts | 25% | You need to be able to write a variety of different items such as memos, letters, emails, reports and proposals. |
|
Listening |
3 parts | 25% | You need to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as presentations, interviews and discussions. |
|
Speaking |
3 parts | 25% | Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations. Your Speaking test will be face-to-face with one or two other candidates. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable. |
Please click here for further details about the exam format.
Flexible Test Options
The C1 Business Higher (BEC H) exam can be taken as a standard test (paper-based /PB) or 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. The exam dates and locations are different for the CB and PB exams.
Registration, Dates and Prices
Exams are offered all over Switzerland, however, locations and dates may vary. Please check all available C1 Business Higher (BEC H) exam dates and prices by clicking on the following link.
Overview exam dates and prices
How can a student prepare for C1 Business Higher (BEC H)?
There are many schools across Switzerland offering preparation courses for Cambridge English Exams. These schools can be found on our recommended school list.
In our online shop different kinds of 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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Business Handbook for Teachers order here The focus is on each paper, including content and advice on preparation. |
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Business Higher 5 self-study pack order here
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Advanced Grammar in Use order here Advanced Grammar in Use Third Edition meets the advanced-level learner's needs with comprehensive grammar coverage and user-friendly layout. |