FCE exam (First Certificate Exam)

The FCE exam is a widely recognized language proficiency exam for English which is completed by Cambridge University. It's also known as Cambridge First Certificate or Also called Cambridge FCE. The FCE exam is used to help assess language skills of candidates that wish to demonstrate their ability to use the English language in different real life situations such as professionally and also academically. The FCE exam is considered an upper-intermediate level exam. That means it's often taken by students who have reached a B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for languages or CEFR. Testing sections for the FCE exam include a total of five main sections. The first is the ability to read and use english. This FCE exam section contains assessment of reading comprehension and language structure. The next section on the FCE exam is writing and evaluates your ability to write essays, letters and other types of text. The next FCE exam section covers listening skills and evaluates your ability for listening comprehension skills. The next FCE exam section covers speaking which assesses your ability to participate in spoken conversations and discussions. And the last FCE exam covers a speaking test with a face to face interview with an examiner that you will engage in speaking tasks. The FCE exam is scored on a scale from A to C meaning in order to pass you must get at least a C but if you score an A it represents the highest level of English proficiency. You can prepare for FCE exam by taking preparatory courses, practicing with sample papers and using study guides. The FCE exam is also used as a proof of language skills for visa or immigration applications. Passing FCE exam and getting the FCE certification doesn't expire, but as language proficiency changes naturally over time the requirement for supplemented assessments and newer FCE exam's might be required for some purposes. FCE exam can be taken as a paper based test during March, May, June, August and December. FCE exam can be taken as a computer-based test during February, April, July, August and November. Not all FCE exam centers will administer both types so you can check with each center to see what type of test you will be taking. FCE exam costs around €160 euros but each testing center can differ since its set by the center. 

Reading & Use of English -75 minutes

Part 1 - Multiple Choice Cloze:

In the first part of FCE exam, you will be presented with a text with gaps, and for each gap, you need to choose the most appropriate word from a list of options. This tests your ability to recognize context and choose the correct word to fill in the gaps.

Part 2 - Open Cloze:

In the next part of FCE exam, you will be given a text with gaps, and you need to fill in each gap with a suitable word. Unlike Part 1, where you choose from multiple options, here, you generate the words yourself. This assesses your ability to use context and vocabulary to complete a text.

Part 3 - Word Formation:

In the next part of the FCE exam, you are provided with a root word, and you need to form a new word by adding prefixes or suffixes to it. It evaluates your knowledge of word formation rules and vocabulary.

Part 4 - Key Word Transformations:

In the next FCE exam section, you'll be given a sentence with a word or phrase missing, and you need to rewrite the sentence using the given word so that it has the same meaning. This section tests your ability to paraphrase and rephrase sentences.

Part 5 - Text with Multiple Choice Questions:

In the next FCE exam section, you'll read a longer text and answer multiple-choice questions based on the content of the text. This section assesses your reading comprehension and your ability to find specific information in a longer passage.

Part 6 - Text with Sentences Missing:

In the next FCE exam section, you are given a text with sentences missing, and you need to choose the most suitable sentence from a list of options to complete the text. This part assesses your ability to understand the flow and coherence of a text.

Part 7 - Multiple Matching:

In the next FCE exam section, you are provided with a longer text and a list of statements or descriptions. Your task is to match the statements to the correct sections of the text. This assesses your ability to identify the main ideas and details in a longer text.

For practice and to access actual FCE exam materials, I recommend using official Cambridge FCE preparation books or taking online practice tests from reputable sources. These resources will help you become familiar with the format and types of questions in each part of the FCE exam. But I can give examples of each of these FCE exam sections.

Here are sample questions for each section:

Part 1 - Multiple Choice Cloze: Choose the correct word from the options to fill in the gap.

Example: I really enjoy _(1) in the park on weekends. It's a great way to relax and _(2) the fresh air. I usually bring a book with me, _(3) I can sit under a tree and read for hours.

1. (A) walking (B) walked (C) walk
2. (A) breathe (B) breathing (C) to breathe
3. (A) because (B) so (C) if

Part 2 - Open Cloze: Fill in the gap with a suitable word of your choice.

Example: It was a _(1) day, and I decided to go for a long (2) in the countryside. The fields were filled with colorful __(3), and I couldn't help but smile.

Part 3 - Word Formation: Complete each sentence by adding a word derived from the root word given.

Example: The team's _(1) in the championship was a great _(2) for their coach, who had been working hard to _(3) their skills.

1. compete
2. achieve
3. develop

Part 4 - Key Word Transformations: Rewrite the sentence using the key word provided while maintaining the same meaning.

Example: They are planning to renovate the old house. → The old house is _(1) renovation.

1. undergoing

Part 5 - Text with Multiple Choice Questions: Read the text and answer the multiple-choice questions.

Text: The new museum in town features a wide range of art, from classical paintings to contemporary sculptures. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Question 1: What can you find at the new museum? (A) Only classical paintings (B) Only contemporary sculptures (C) A wide range of art (D) Nothing of interest

Question 2: Who would likely enjoy the museum? (A) People who don't like art (B) Art enthusiasts (C) Tourists (D) Children

Part 6 - Text with Sentences Missing: Complete the text by choosing the most appropriate sentence from the options.

Text: After a long day of hiking, we set up camp by the river. We built a fire and cooked our dinner over it. As we sat around the fire, we shared stories and laughed.

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(A) It was a beautiful and peaceful night. (B) We were all tired from the hike. (C) The stars were shining brightly in the clear sky.

Part 7 - Multiple Matching: Match the statements to the sections in the text.

Text: Section 1: Introduction to the city Section 2: Local cuisine and restaurants Section 3: Popular tourist attractions

Statements:

1. Describes the city's top tourist spots.
2. Discusses where to find the best local dishes.
3. Gives an overview of the city and its history.

Match each statement to the appropriate section of the text.

Writing - 2 essays, 80 minutes

Listening - 40 minutes Speaking - interview, normally with another candidate, 14 minutes Part 1 - Write an Essay Based on Prompts: In Part 1 of the FCE exam, you are presented with a set of input material that includes prompts, such as notes, a short text, or a series of related bullet points. Your task is to write an essay based on these prompts. The essay typically requires you to: Address a specific topic or issue. Present your opinion or provide a balanced argument. Support your points with relevant examples and details. Write in an organized and coherent manner. The essay should be well-structured, and it should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You are expected to demonstrate your ability to express your thoughts clearly and effectively. You should also consider the target audience and the purpose of the essay. Part 2 - Write One from a Choice of 3 Questions: An Article, an Essay, a Letter, a Report, a Review, a Story: In Part 2 of the FCE exam, you are given a choice of three questions, each with a different type of writing task. The task types may include writing an article, an essay, a letter, a report, a review, or a story. You must choose one of these questions and complete the assigned writing task. Each question will provide you with specific instructions on the type of text to write, the audience you are addressing, and any additional details or prompts to include in your response. This part evaluates your ability to adapt your writing style and format to different contexts and purposes. In both sections, your writing will be assessed on various criteria, including: Content: The relevance and depth of your response. Communicative Achievement: How effectively you convey your message. Organization: The structure and coherence of your writing. Language: Your use of vocabulary, grammar, and language conventions. Task Achievement: How well you fulfill the specific requirements of the FCE exam. To perform well in the B2 First FCE Writing exam, it's essential to practice writing essays, articles, letters, and other types of texts in English. Familiarize yourself with the expectations for each task type, and pay attention to the specific instructions and prompts provided in the exam. Practicing with sample questions and seeking feedback on your writing can be helpful in preparing for this part of the exam.

Here are examples of the two parts of the FCE Writing exam:

Part 1 - Write an Essay Based on Prompts: You are given the following prompts:

• A series of bullet points highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of using public transportation.
• A question: "Is public transportation a better option than using private cars for commuting?"

Based on these prompts, you are required to write an essay presenting your viewpoint on the advantages and disadvantages of using public transportation and ultimately answering the question. Here's a sample essay:

Sample Essay:

Public Transportation vs. Private Cars: A Balanced Perspective

In recent years, the debate over whether to use public transportation or private cars for daily commuting has gained significant traction. The pros and cons of each option deserve careful consideration. This essay aims to provide a balanced perspective on this topic.

One of the key advantages of public transportation is its environmental friendliness. It significantly reduces the carbon footprint, as multiple passengers share a single vehicle, resulting in fewer emissions compared to private cars. Moreover, using public transportation often contributes to decongesting traffic and reducing air pollution, which has far-reaching benefits for the environment.

On the other hand, private cars offer convenience and flexibility. Commuters have the liberty to choose their own routes and schedules, which is particularly appealing for those with irregular work hours or multiple stops to make. Additionally, private cars eliminate the discomfort of crowded public transportation, allowing passengers to travel in a more personal and comfortable setting.

However, it is essential to acknowledge the drawbacks of both options. Public transportation can be unreliable, with delays and overcrowded vehicles causing frustration among commuters. On the contrary, private cars contribute to traffic congestion and the excessive use of natural resources.

In conclusion, the choice between public transportation and private cars depends on various factors, including individual preferences and specific circumstances. While public transportation is undoubtedly more environmentally friendly, private cars offer convenience and flexibility. To address the question of whether public transportation is a better option than private cars for commuting, it is essential to consider personal priorities, environmental concerns, and the practicality of daily travel.

Part 2 - Write One from a Choice of 3 Questions: An Article, an Essay, a Letter, a Report, a Review, a Story: You are given a choice of three questions. Here's an example of one of the questions and a sample response: Question (Article): Write an article for your school magazine on the importance of extracurricular activities in students' lives. Sample Article: Unlocking Potential: The Significance of Extracurricular Activities Extracurricular activities are an integral part of a student's life, offering numerous benefits beyond the classroom. From sports and clubs to volunteer work and the arts, engaging in extracurricular activities has a profound impact on personal development, academic success, and overall well-being. One of the most notable advantages of participating in extracurricular activities is the enhancement of a student's social and interpersonal skills. These activities provide a platform for students to interact with their peers, form friendships, and develop teamwork and leadership qualities. This social aspect of extracurriculars helps individuals grow as individuals and prepares them for the challenges of the future. Furthermore, extracurricular activities contribute to a more holistic educational experience. They provide an opportunity for students to explore their passions and interests, which can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and personal growth. Whether it's joining a debate club, playing a musical instrument, or participating in community service, these activities nurture creativity, self-expression, and a sense of purpose. From an academic standpoint, research has shown that students engaged in extracurricular activities tend to perform better in their studies. The skills and discipline acquired in these activities often transfer to the classroom, leading to improved time management and academic achievement. Extracurriculars can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment, motivating students to excel in all aspects of their education. In conclusion, the value of extracurricular activities cannot be overstated. They enrich the lives of students, fostering personal development, academic success, and a sense of community. Schools should continue to promote and support a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities to ensure that every student can unlock their potential and thrive in all areas of life. Listening - 40 minutes

The FCE Listening exam is designed to assess your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. The test consists of four sections and takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. Here's an overview of each section:

Part 1 - Listen to 8 Recordings, Each with One Question:

In this part, you will listen to a series of short recordings, each of which is accompanied by a single question. The questions are typically of various types, such as multiple-choice, sentence completion, or matching. The recordings may include conversations, interviews, or monologues. Part 1 is designed to test your ability to understand specific details and extract information from short spoken texts.

Part 2 - Listen and Complete Gapped Sentences:

In this section, you will hear a recording in which there are sentences with gaps. You need to complete these sentences by listening to the information provided in the recording. The focus here is on your ability to understand context and use the information you hear to fill in the missing words.

Part 3 - Multiple Matching, 5 Speakers:

Part 3 involves a longer listening task that features a conversation or discussion among multiple speakers (typically five). You will be presented with a set of statements or descriptions. Your task is to match each statement to the speaker who says it. This part assesses your ability to identify who is speaking and your understanding of different speakers' viewpoints and roles.

Part 4 - A Longer Recording, with 7 Multiple Choice Questions:

In Part 4, you will listen to a longer recording, which could be a lecture, talk, or discussion. After listening to the recording, you will be asked multiple-choice questions related to the content. This section assesses your ability to comprehend longer and more complex spoken texts and extract key information.

Throughout the FCE exam, you are provided with specific tasks and questions that require you to use your listening skills to extract information, identify main ideas, recognize details, and understand the relationships between speakers. The listening materials may include a range of accents, speeds of speech, and levels of formality to reflect real-life communication situations.

To prepare for the FCE Listening exam, it's important to practice listening to a variety of English accents and listening to different types of spoken texts. You can use official Cambridge FCE exam preparation materials and practice tests to become familiar with the format and question types. Additionally, regular listening practice, such as watching English-language films, TV shows, and podcasts, can help improve your listening skills.

Here are examples of each section of the FCE Listening exam:

Part 1 - Listen to 8 Recordings, Each with One Question:

You will listen to a short recording followed by a question. Choose the correct answer.

Sample Question:

You hear a man talking about his favorite hobby. What is his favorite hobby?

(A) Reading books

(B) Playing the piano

(C) Painting

Part 2 - Listen and Complete Gapped Sentences:

You will hear a recording with sentences that have gaps. Complete the sentences by listening to the information provided.

Sample Sentences:

I'm planning to go to the beach tomorrow, so I need to buy a new __________.

She enjoys hiking in the mountains and being close to __________.

Part 3 - Multiple Matching, 5 Speakers:

You will hear a conversation among five speakers. Match each statement (A-F) with the speaker who says it (1-5).

Sample Statements:

A. I've always loved traveling to new places.

B. I think the best part of my job is meeting interesting people.

C. We've had this dog for five years now.

D. I'd like to learn to play the piano.

E. The weather has been quite unpredictable lately.

F. I prefer going out to restaurants rather than cooking at home.

Part 4 - A Longer Recording, with 7 Multiple Choice Questions:

You will listen to a longer recording, and then answer multiple-choice questions.

Sample Questions:

What is the main topic of the recording?

(A) A historical event

(B) A scientific discovery

(C) A famous person's life

(D) A new technology

According to the speaker, why is the new software so useful?

(A) It's easy to use.

(B) It's free to download.

(C) It helps people communicate better.

(D) It was developed by a famous company.

These are simplified examples to give you a sense of the format of each section. In the actual test, the listening materials and questions will be more detailed and complex. To practice and become more comfortable with the FCE Listening exam, consider using official Cambridge FCE exam preparation materials and practice tests, which will offer a variety of listening scenarios and a range of accents to enhance your listening skills.

Speaking - interview, normally with another candidate, 14 minutes

The different parts of the FCE exam Speaking test will assesses your ability to communicate in spoken English. Here's an overview of each part:

Part 1: A Conversation Between the Examiner and Each Candidate (Spoken Questions):

In Part 1, you and your fellow candidate will have a short conversation with the examiner. The examiner will ask questions that are designed to get to know you, such as questions about your hobbies, interests, daily routines, or personal experiences. You'll take turns answering the questions, and this part typically lasts for a few minutes. The aim is to evaluate your ability to engage in a simple conversation and provide personal information.

Part 2: An Individual 'Long Turn' for Each Candidate, with a Brief Response from the Second Candidate (You Are Given a Pair of Photographs to Talk About):

In Part 2, you will receive a pair of photographs, and you'll be asked to speak about them for approximately one minute. You should describe the content of the photos, make comparisons, express your opinions, and relate the images to your own experiences. After your 'long turn,' the other candidate will respond briefly. This part assesses your ability to speak at length on a specific topic, as well as your fluency and coherence.

Part 3: A Two-Way Conversation Between the Candidates Where You Have to Decide Something:

In Part 3, you and the other candidate will engage in a conversation about a specific topic. The examiner will present you with a task or situation, and you and your partner will discuss it, share your opinions, and make a decision together. This part evaluates your ability to engage in a discussion, express and justify your opinions, and collaborate with your partner to reach a decision.

Part 4: A Discussion on Topics Related to Part 3 (Spoken Questions):

In Part 4, the examiner will ask both candidates questions related to the topic discussed in Part 3. You will take turns answering these questions, and the aim is to delve deeper into the topic, allowing you to express your thoughts and ideas more extensively.

The FCE Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations. It's important to speak clearly, provide detailed and relevant responses, and engage in natural conversation with the examiner and the other candidate. Practicing speaking English in different contexts and with different partners can help you prepare for this test effectively.

Here are examples for each part of the FCE exam in English Speaking test:

Part 1: A Conversation Between the Examiner and Each Candidate (Spoken Questions):

Examiner: Can you tell me about your favorite hobby or activity, and why you enjoy it?

Candidate 1: Well, one of my favorite hobbies is hiking. I love being in nature and exploring new trails. It's a great way to relax and stay active.

Examiner: That sounds wonderful! Do you prefer hiking in a forest or by the sea?

Candidate 2: I actually prefer forest hikes because I find the atmosphere more peaceful.

Part 2: An Individual 'Long Turn' for Each Candidate, with a Brief Response from the Second Candidate (You Are Given a Pair of Photographs to Talk About):

Examiner: Here are two photos. Please describe them and explain how they make you feel.

Candidate 1: In the first photo, I see a bustling city with skyscrapers and a lot of traffic. It looks very busy and hectic, which makes me feel stressed. In the second photo, there's a serene beach with clear blue water and a few people relaxing. It makes me feel calm and relaxed.

Candidate 2: I agree with you about the first photo. It seems chaotic. As for the second one, it looks like the perfect place to unwind.

Part 3: A Two-Way Conversation Between the Candidates Where You Have to Decide Something:

Examiner: You are planning a day trip. You can choose between visiting a historic castle or exploring a nature reserve. Discuss your options and decide which one you would prefer.

Candidate 1: I think visiting the historic castle would be a great idea. It's a chance to learn about the history of the area.

Candidate 2: That's true, but I feel like exploring the nature reserve would be more relaxing, and we could enjoy the outdoors.

Part 4: A Discussion on Topics Related to Part 3 (Spoken Questions):

Examiner: Now that you've discussed your options, can you tell me about a time when you visited a historic site or a natural attraction?

Candidate 1: Last summer, I went to a historic museum in a nearby town. It was a small museum, but it had some fascinating artifacts from the past.

Examiner: What kind of artifacts did you see?

Candidate 2: I've also visited a historic site, a medieval castle. It was an amazing experience to walk through the ancient halls and learn about its history.

These are simplified examples to give you a sense of the format of each part of the FCE Speaking exam. In the actual test, the topics and questions will vary, but the goal is to assess your ability to communicate effectively, express your thoughts clearly, and engage in a conversation.