First Certificate in English
The First Certificate in English (FCE) is an examination designed for individuals with upper-intermediate English language skills, typically at the B2 level.
The International English Test is a short, 15-minute version of the test. It gives an approximate estimation of proficiency levels.Â
End of the test, get your first certificate in English.
First Certificate Exam
First certificate practice tests
FAQ: First Certificate
What is First Certificate?
The Cambridge English B2 First exam, formerly referred to as the FCE exam or the Cambridge First Certificate, is tailored for individuals possessing upper-intermediate English proficiency. It holds significant popularity among Cambridge English exams, primarily because B2 often represents the minimum language requirement for university programs in English-speaking nations.
Similar to all Cambridge English exams, the B2 First Certificate operates on a pass/fail basis, granting a timeless certificate to successful candidates. The FCE exam can be administered in either a paper-based or computer-based format, with a total duration of 209 minutes.
Is First Certificate B2 or C1?
The First exam is aimed at assessing proficiency at Level B2, according to the Common European Framework of Reference established by the Council of Europe. Individuals who attain a Grade A (scoring between 180 and 190 on the Cambridge English Scale) are awarded a certificate indicating their competence at Level C1.
First Certificate Exam Practice!
Check your B2 level with our free English placement test
I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.