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What is B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P)?
The B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) exam is for individual learners who want to have a business-related English language qualification on B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). By taking an internationally recognised business qualification like B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P), you can show that you have learned English to an appropriate standard and can use it in a professional context.
Who is B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) for?
More than ever, a good knowledge of English is needed to succeed in international business and commerce. The B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) is taken by learners or professionals with a good basic education in English and is a popular qualification with employers.
Who takes official B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) Cambridge exam?
In Switzerland, B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) is mainly taken by KV students as the final school-leaving exam after their three year apprenticeship. It is also used in the corporate sector by candidates who intend to enhance their business English skills, due changing requirements in the world of work, because more and more companies in Switzerland require minimum English language skills at CEFR B1 level.
How is B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) recognised?
Many companies in Switzerland recognise B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) as a full B1 qualification. It is also an excellent foundation to continue with preparing for a next level exam such as B2 Business Vantage (BEC V) or B2 First (FCE).
Format of the exam
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Paper |
Content | Marks (%of total) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reading and Writing Sample Paper (zip-file) |
Reading: Writing: |
50% | Shows you can read and understand the main points from graphs or charts, messages and emails, and can use vocabulary and structure correctly. You are also required to be able to produce two short pieces of writing: an internal communication, such as a note or a message, and some business correspondence, such as an email or a letter. |
|
Listening Sample Paper (zip-file) |
4 parts | 25% | Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials including interviews and discussions about everyday life. |
|
Speaking Sample Paper (zip-file) |
3 parts | 25% | Shows your spoken English as you take part in conversation, asking and answering questions, and talking freely about your opinions, for example, when discussing business-related topics. 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 B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) exam can be taken as standard test (pencil and paper) or computer-based. The exams content is exactly the same, it is just the delivery mode (paper-based / computer based) which is different. Also the exam dates and locations vary between CB and PB exams.
Registration, Dates and Prices
Exams are offered all over Switzerland, however, locations and dates may vary. Please check all available B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P) exam dates and prices by clicking on the following link.
Overview exam dates and prices
How can a student prepare for B1 Business Preliminary (BEC P)?
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, there are various preparation materials, which can enhance the exam preparation and support any student in his endeavor of mastering a Cambridge English Exams.
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 Preliminary 5 self-study pack order here This set of tests provides exam preparation, allowing candidates to familiarise themselves with the content of the Cambridge English Business Preliminary exam and to practise exam techniques. |
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English Vocabulary in Use Pre- and Intermediate order here English Vocabulary in Use Pre-intermediate and Intermediate is fully aligned to the needs of English language learners at B1 level, so it will help you learn the words and phrases you require. |
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English Grammar in Use order here The English Grammar in Use is arranged in an easy to use format, with explanations of grammar points on one side and exercises to check understanding on the other side. |