B1 Preliminary Exam Practice 2025
One of the Cambridge English Qualifications is B1 Preliminary for Schools, formerly known as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET speaking). The English language exam verifies that you have learned the basics. Between A2 Key for Schools and B2 First for Schools, this exam is the obvious next stage in a student’s language learning journey.
A B1 Preliminary qualification demonstrates that you have learned the fundamentals of English and now possess practical language abilities. B1 Cambridge Preliminary is an intermediate-level qualification for students who have learned the fundamentals of English and are ready to apply their language skills in everyday situations.
It is aimed at the Common European Framework of Reference Level B1 (CEFR). Each Cambridge English B1 Qualification focuses on a different level of the CEFR, and they all work together to create a seamless learning experience.
For general and higher education, and business, Cambridge PET for Schools Qualifications are available. B1 Preliminary is available in two versions: B1 Preliminary for Schools, which is designed for school-aged students, and B1 Preliminary, which is designed for adults in general and higher education.
Take the B1 Preliminary Practice Test Now!
A B1 Preliminary qualification shows that you can:
- read simple textbooks, Cambridge English books B1 or Cambridge PET book and articles in English
- write letters and emails on everyday subjects
- take meeting notes
- show awareness of opinions and mood in spoken and written English.
Why choose B1 Preliminary?
- Develop your ability to communicate in English for practical tasks and situations.
- Gain a valuable qualification that is accepted worldwide.
- Improve your work, study and travel prospects.
B1 Preliminary Exam Preparation:
- read Cambridge English books B1 (Cambridge B1 book) or Cambridge PET book
- practice tests B1 Preliminary for schools
- PET practice test with answers
- review Cambridge B1 sample test
- review Preliminary English test 2025-2022
- try Preliminary English test for schools 1 with answers pdf
- PET speaking practice
- PET practice test online
Pet Cambridge B1 Exam Format
Three B1 Cambridge exam papers cover all four language skills in both versions of the exam (B1 Preliminary and Test Cambridge B1 Preliminary for Schools) (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking).
Candidates can take the PET Speaking test face-to-face, while the Reading, Writing, and Listening papers can be taken on a computer or on paper.
1. Reading and Writing
The Reading and Writing paper is divided into eight sections with a total of 42 questions. Candidates must be able to read and comprehend a variety of short and longer factual writings. Signs, brochures, newspapers, magazines, and messages such as notes, emails, cards, and postcards are all examples of text sources.
2. Listening
The Listening Preliminary English test paper is divided into four sections, each with 25 questions. Candidates must be able to comprehend a variety of spoken materials on a variety of themes in both informal and neutral contexts. Announcements, interviews, and talks about everyday life are examples of recorded content.
3. Speaking
The Speaking paper is divided into four sections and is given face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. Candidates must demonstrate conversation skills by answering and asking questions, as well as freely discussing their likes and dislikes.
B1 Preliminary Results
The Cambridge English Scale is used to report B1 preliminary results. You’ll get a separate score for each of the four skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), so you’ll know exactly how you did. The exam’s overall outcome is calculated by averaging these four marks. You’ll also get a grade and a level from the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
B1 Preliminary Scale Scores
You may be required to attain a specified score or grade, either overall or for a specific skill, depending on which institution, college, or organization you are applying to. The following scores will be used to report results for B1 Preliminary:
The PET Cambridge exam is targeted at Level B1 of the CEFR. The exam can also be used to assess students at levels above B1 (Level B2) and below (Level A2). Scores of 102 to 119 are also reported on your Statement of Results, but you will not be given a Cambridge PET certificate for the Cambridge Preliminary English Test.
What’s on the B1 Preliminary Certificate?
Within three months of the exam, certificates are usually sent to exam centers. If you require a certain day, please contact your center. Depending on your achievement, you may be granted a certificate at various levels.
B1 Preliminary – Level B2
If you achieve a scale score of 160–170 (Distinction) in your exam, you will receive the Preliminary English Test certificate at Level B2.
B1 Preliminary – Level B1
If you achieve a scale score of 140–159 (Pass, Pass with Merit) in your exam, you will receive the Preliminary English Test certificate at Level B1.
Level A2 certificate
We believe it is important to recognise your achievement, even if you do not reach Level B1. If your exam performance is below Level B1, but falls within Level A2, we will recognise your achievement with a Cambridge English certificate stating that you demonstrated ability at Level A2.
How long is my Cambridge certificate B1 valid for?
Your Cambridge English certificate will remain valid indefinitely. Universities, colleges, and employers, for example, might determine how long to accept results, so make sure you carefully verify their requirements.
B1 Preliminary Questions and Answers
On our Cambridge English Facebook page, you may practice your English with other language learners. Learn how to prepare for the B1 Preliminary exam by watching our exam tip videos. Official Cambridge English support materials are available through Cambridge Assessment English and Cambridge University Press.
One of the Cambridge English Qualifications is B1 Preliminary for Schools, formerly known as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET speaking). The English language exam verifies that you have learned the basics. Between A2 Key for Schools and B2 First for Schools, this exam is the obvious next stage in a student’s language learning journey.
You will do better in the interview if you improve your speaking and listening abilities. Your tone of voice must be clear, and your listening ability must be strong. Request that your family members conduct your interview in English. If you want to make a good impression on the examiner, you can also enroll in speaking English classes.
The English (intermediate/B1) test assesses a candidate’s ability to communicate at the CEFR level B1. The test assesses candidates’ grammar and vocabulary skills, as well as sentence construction, reading comprehension, and listening comprehension.
You can book your test online by filling out the form and selecting your test date as mentioned on the registration form, or you can call us to arrange your exam over the phone for no additional charge at 0121 403 3018 / 07507936760.
The following sections make up the test:
- 45 minutes to read six parts
- 45 minutes to write two portions
- 30 minutes of listening in four parts
- Speaking – a 12-minute interview
For applicants seeking ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain), Citizenship, Naturalization, or a British passport, the English Test B1 (also known as B1 CEFR or ESOL Entry Level 3 or GESE Grade 5) is required.
You will obtain the Preliminary English Test certificate at Level B2 if you achieve a scale score of 160–170 (Distinction) on your exam. You will obtain the Preliminary English Test certificate at Level B1 if you achieve a scale score of 140–159 (Pass, Pass with Merit) on your exam.