C1 Advanced
C1 Advanced, also known as Cambridge English: Advanced or CAE, is an internationally recognized English language qualification that certifies advanced proficiency at the C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).[1] Developed by Cambridge Assessment English, it evaluates candidates' ability to use English effectively for academic study, professional purposes, and everyday communication in complex contexts.[2] The exam consists of four papers—Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—testing a range of skills including comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and interaction.[2] Originally introduced in 1991 as the Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), the qualification was renamed C1 Advanced in 2017 to align more closely with CEFR descriptors, though the CAE acronym remains in common use.[1] It was revised in 2015 to incorporate more authentic tasks reflecting real-life language use, such as workplace scenarios and academic reading.[1] The exam is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats and is administered at over 2,800 centers in more than 130 countries.[3] C1 Advanced is widely accepted by over 25,000 universities, employers, and governments worldwide, including institutions like the University of Oxford, MIT, and Yale University, as well as companies such as Dell, Nestlé, and Deloitte.[3] In many countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the UK, it meets 100% of university entry requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.[4] Scores are reported on the Cambridge English Scale from 160 to 210, with a pass at 180 corresponding to C1 level, and higher scores potentially awarding C2 proficiency.[5] Preparation resources, including official sample papers and practice tests, are provided by Cambridge to support candidates aiming for this high-level certification.[6]Introduction
Overview and Purpose
C1 Advanced is a high-level English language qualification developed by Cambridge English, part of the University of Cambridge. It rigorously assesses advanced proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, enabling effective communication in complex academic, professional, and social contexts.[7][1] The primary purposes of C1 Advanced include certifying C1-level English skills for university admissions, where it demonstrates readiness for undergraduate or postgraduate programs; professional applications, such as roles requiring nuanced interaction in business or research environments; and personal achievement, validating advanced language mastery for global mobility or immigration requirements. Recognized by over 25,000 universities, employers, and governments worldwide, the qualification supports candidates in pursuing higher education, career advancement, and international opportunities.[1][8] Key features of the exam encompass its flexible administration in both computer-based (digital) and paper-based formats, ensuring accessibility for diverse test-takers. It is available globally through a network of over 2,800 authorized test centers in more than 130 countries, with certificates holding lifelong validity and no expiration date. This structure facilitates year-round testing sessions, making it a practical choice for candidates seeking reliable proof of proficiency aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).[1][9]CEFR Alignment and Proficiency Level
The C1 Advanced examination is aligned with level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which describes proficient users as those who can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning, while expressing themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.[10] At this level, individuals can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes, and produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts on complex subjects, demonstrating controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices.[10] The exam assesses specific C1-level skills across four areas. In reading, candidates must comprehend long and complex factual and literary texts, appreciating distinctions of style, as well as specialized articles and longer technical instructions outside their field of expertise.[10] For writing, it evaluates the ability to produce clear, well-structured texts on complex subjects, emphasizing relevant issues, expanding and supporting viewpoints with subsidiary points, reasons, and examples, without significant restrictions on expression.[10] Listening tasks require understanding extended speech that lacks clear structure, where relationships are implied rather than explicit, including television programs and films with minimal effort. Speaking focuses on fluent and spontaneous expression of ideas and opinions, flexible use for social and professional purposes, and precise formulation that skillfully relates to others' contributions. C1 Advanced bridges the independent user level of B2 (as in B2 First) and the mastery level of C2 (as in C2 Proficiency), enabling nuanced expression on complex topics with rare errors that do not impede communication.[11] While B2 users handle main ideas in clear texts and produce straightforward connected text, C1 proficiency allows for greater depth and precision; C2 extends this to near-native subtlety in all contexts.[10] This alignment is supported by Cambridge English's research, including validation studies that link exam performance to CEFR descriptors through comparative analyses with other assessments like IELTS and ongoing evaluations of score mappings on the Cambridge English Scale, where scores of 180–199 correspond to C1.[11][12] A 2009 study using equipercentile methods confirmed the exam's reliability at C1, with reliable assessment extending to B2 (160–179) and C2 (200+).[11]Historical Development
Origins and Early Versions
The origins of the C1 Advanced exam trace back to the early 20th century efforts by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which in 1913 introduced the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) as the first standardized English language examination specifically designed for non-native speakers.[13] This initiative arose from the growing demand for English proficiency assessments amid expanding international education and colonial influences, marking the beginning of Cambridge's involvement in language testing for overseas learners.[14] The CPE focused on near-native proficiency and set a precedent for subsequent exams, emphasizing skills relevant to academic and professional contexts.[13] By the 1980s, UCLES identified a significant gap in its exam suite between the intermediate-level First Certificate in English (FCE), launched in 1939 and revised multiple times, and the advanced CPE, prompting the development of a new qualification for learners at an advanced but not yet proficient level.[15] The Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), as it was initially known, was created during the late 1980s to address this need, with its outline developed and the exam launched in 1991 after a rapid production process spanning less than three years.[13] This new exam aimed to certify English skills suitable for higher education and professional environments, filling a void for candidates seeking recognition beyond intermediate thresholds.[15] The initial 1991 format of the CAE consisted of four core papers assessing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, tailored to simulate real-world academic and professional language use.[16] These components were structured to evaluate not only linguistic accuracy but also the ability to handle complex texts and interactions, reflecting contemporary research on language acquisition at advanced levels.[13] Early adoption of the CAE was swift, with recognition by numerous UK universities established by the mid-1990s for admissions purposes, underscoring its value in demonstrating readiness for tertiary studies. This period saw growing international uptake, supported by its alignment with emerging standards in language assessment. The first revisions occurred in 1999, incorporating updates to task types informed by ongoing language research to enhance validity and relevance.[13]Revisions and Name Changes
The Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), later rebranded, underwent its first major revision in 1999 to align with evolving communicative language teaching methodologies and to enhance the exam's relevance to contemporary language use. These updates primarily targeted the Reading and Listening papers, introducing more authentic tasks informed by corpus linguistics research, which analyzed real-world English usage to ensure texts and audio materials reflected natural discourse patterns rather than contrived examples. The changes emphasized fluency, notions, and functions over strict grammatical accuracy, while reducing the focus on literary analysis and incorporating task-based elements to simulate practical communication scenarios.[13][17] In 2008, the exam received a more substantial overhaul to better reflect real-world communicative demands and integrate advancements in language assessment practices. Significant modifications to the Writing paper included reducing the word count and input materials for tasks such as articles, reports, and proposals to streamline production while maintaining depth, alongside the addition of optional set text questions in Part 2 and a 30-minute reduction in overall test time. The Speaking paper was updated to foster greater interactivity, with revised prompts and formats that encouraged collaborative discussion and negotiation of meaning, aligning the test more closely with CEFR C1-level descriptors for spontaneous and extended discourse. These revisions also introduced onscreen marking via the scoris® platform for Writing, improving efficiency and consistency in assessment.[18][13][19] The most comprehensive revision occurred in 2015, when the exam was renamed Cambridge English: Advanced to emphasize its role within the broader Cambridge English Qualifications suite and to clarify its alignment with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Key format changes merged the Reading and Use of English papers into a single 90-minute component with shortened tasks—such as reducing text lengths and item counts—to heighten focus on academic and professional skills, while introducing a new cross-text multiple-matching task and eliminating set text options from Writing. The Speaking paper shifted to text-based prompts like mind maps for collaborative tasks, replacing some visual elements to promote deeper interaction. Scoring transitioned to the Cambridge English Scale, providing scores from 160 to 210 (with 180 as the pass mark) for greater transparency and comparability across exams, replacing the previous grade bands. Computer-based testing options were also introduced alongside the traditional paper format, expanding accessibility.[20][17][21] In 2017, the name was further updated to C1 Advanced to explicitly highlight its CEFR C1 proficiency level, aiding stakeholders in understanding the qualification's scope without relying on acronyms like CAE. This rebranding was part of a broader initiative to standardize nomenclature across Cambridge English exams for improved global recognition.[22] Post-2015 developments in the 2020s focused on adapting delivery methods amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with enhancements enabling fully online administration, including video-call formats for the Speaking paper to maintain paired interaction remotely while upholding assessment validity. These temporary measures, introduced in 2020, supported continuity during closures without altering core content or structure. As of 2025, the exam format remains stable, with no major revisions announced, confirming its established alignment with current language proficiency standards.[23][24]Exam Structure
General Format and Administration
The C1 Advanced exam consists of four mandatory papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, with no optional components.[1] These papers assess a candidate's ability to use English at an advanced level across various skills, forming a comprehensive evaluation without electives or modular choices.[25] The exam is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats, allowing flexibility based on the test center's offerings.[1] The Speaking paper, however, is conducted face-to-face, typically in pairs or groups of three, even when other components are taken digitally.[26] Administration of the C1 Advanced exam is overseen by Cambridge English through over 2,800 authorized centers in more than 130 countries worldwide.[1] Candidates must register directly with an authorized center, which handles scheduling, fee payment, and verification of identity via valid photo ID on exam day.[7] Centers ensure standardized procedures, including secure test materials and examiner training to maintain consistency.[1] There are no formal age restrictions or prerequisites for taking the exam, though it is designed for adult and young adult learners who have reached an advanced proficiency level equivalent to CEFR C1.[1] Accommodations for candidates with disabilities or special requirements, such as extra time or modified formats, are available upon application through the test center and approval by Cambridge English.Reading and Use of English Paper
The Reading and Use of English paper in the C1 Advanced exam assesses candidates' ability to handle complex texts and demonstrate advanced control of English grammar and vocabulary. It combines language manipulation tasks with reading comprehension exercises drawn from a variety of authentic sources, including non-fiction articles, reports, reviews, and short stories.[1] The paper emphasizes skills such as lexical precision, grammatical accuracy, understanding of collocations and idioms, and inferential reading in context-rich materials.[25] The paper is structured into eight parts, totaling 56 questions, and is allocated 1 hour and 30 minutes.[25] Parts 1–4 focus on the use of English, testing candidates' knowledge of vocabulary and grammar through controlled tasks, while Parts 5–8 evaluate reading comprehension via interaction with longer texts. Questions are presented in a fixed order, and candidates must transfer answers to an answer sheet during the exam. Spelling accuracy is required for all written responses, with no marks awarded for misspelled answers.[1]Part 1: Multiple-choice cloze
This task presents a short modified text, approximately 250 words, with eight gaps, each followed by four multiple-choice options. Candidates select the word or phrase that best fits each gap, testing vocabulary range, including fixed phrases, collocations, and understanding of context. It assesses the ability to choose semantically and grammatically appropriate items in advanced contexts. There are 8 questions, each worth 1 mark.[1]Part 2: Open cloze
Candidates complete a text of around 200 words by filling eight gaps with a single word each, without options provided. This tests grammatical knowledge, such as auxiliary verbs, prepositions, and linking words, as well as lexical items like phrasal verbs. It requires awareness of structural patterns and subtle nuances in advanced English. There are 8 questions, each worth 1 mark.[1]Part 3: Word formation
In this part, candidates read a text of about 250 words with eight gaps and form the correct word from a given stem (e.g., by adding prefixes, suffixes, or changing word class). It evaluates understanding of word-building processes, including derivation and compounding, to fit the context. There are 8 questions, each worth 1 mark.[1]Part 4: Key word transformation
This consists of six sentence pairs, where candidates rewrite the second sentence using a given key word (3–6 words total) without changing the meaning. It tests grammar, vocabulary, and paraphrasing skills, often involving complex structures like conditionals, passives, or reported speech. Each question is worth up to 2 marks, for a total of 12 marks.[1]Part 5: Multiple choice
Candidates read a text of 550–650 words, typically a factual or discursive article, followed by six multiple-choice questions with four options each. This assesses detailed understanding, including opinions, attitudes, and text organization, as well as the ability to infer implicit information. Each question is worth 2 marks, for a total of 12 marks.[1]Part 6: Cross-text multiple matching
This task involves two short texts (approximately 300 words each) on related topics, with four questions requiring candidates to match prompts to specific extracts from the texts. It tests the ability to compare viewpoints, identify shared ideas, and understand relationships between texts. There are 4 questions, each worth 2 marks, for a total of 8 marks.[1]Part 7: Gapped text
Candidates receive a text of 800–1,000 words with six numbered gaps, plus an example, and seven paragraphs to insert (one extra). This evaluates cohesion, coherence, and global understanding of how parts connect in a longer argumentative or descriptive text. Each correct match is worth 2 marks, for a total of 12 marks.[1]Part 8: Multiple matching
This features a single text of 800–1,000 words divided into sections, with 10 questions matching prompts (e.g., for specific information or opinions) to the correct sections (A–H, with extras). It tests skimming for gist, scanning for details, and recognizing attitudes in complex, multi-topic texts like reviews or articles. There are 10 questions, each worth 1 mark.[1] Marking for the paper awards 1 mark per correct answer in Parts 1, 2, 3, and 8, and up to 2 marks per item in Parts 4, 5, 6, and 7, resulting in a maximum of 78 marks. Partial credit is given in Parts 4, 5, 6, and 7 for answers that convey the required transformation or match but contain minor errors. The paper contributes to both reading and use of English components of the overall score, with no negative marking for incorrect answers.[1]Writing Paper
The Writing paper in the C1 Advanced exam assesses candidates' ability to produce clear, well-structured texts on a range of topics for different audiences and purposes.[25] It consists of two compulsory parts completed within a total time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, with each task requiring 220–260 words.[27] Candidates must demonstrate advanced control of language to communicate complex ideas effectively, aligning with CEFR C1-level writing skills such as developing arguments and using varied structures.[1] Part 1 is a compulsory essay task, requiring 220–260 words. Candidates respond to an input text, typically 100–140 words, which presents two points related to a topic; they must discuss these points and explain which is more important, often involving opinion-forming, comparison, or problem-solving.[25] For example, candidates might evaluate the roles of journalists in providing information versus inspiring action, stating a position with supporting reasons and examples.[27] The task emphasizes balanced development of ideas while maintaining a formal, academic tone suitable for an educated audience.[1] In Part 2, candidates select one task from three options, each also 220–260 words, tailored to specific contexts, purposes, and target readers. The possible text types include a letter or email (formal or semi-formal, such as a complaint or recommendation), a proposal (suggesting improvements, e.g., for a club or workplace), a report (analyzing information and making suggestions, often based on survey data), or a review (evaluating experiences like events or products, with recommendations).[25] For instance, a review task might involve comparing two music festivals and recommending one to a magazine editor.[27] These tasks require adapting register—ranging from neutral to formal—and incorporating appropriate conventions, such as headings in reports or openings/closings in letters.[1] Assessment is based on four equally weighted criteria, each scored on a 0–5 band scale: content (relevance and development of key points), communicative achievement (appropriateness of style, tone, and engagement of the reader), organisation (logical structure, cohesion, and paragraphing), and language (range and accuracy of vocabulary and grammar).[27] High-scoring responses fully address the task, use sophisticated linking devices, and exhibit precise control over complex structures to create coherent, engaging texts.[1] This evaluation ensures candidates can produce purposeful writing that meets real-world communicative needs at an advanced level.[25]Listening Paper
The Listening paper in the C1 Advanced exam assesses candidates' ability to understand a wide range of spoken English in various contexts, including everyday social interactions, educational discussions, and professional scenarios.[25] It consists of four parts with a total of 30 questions, designed to test skills such as identifying gist, specific details, speakers' opinions, attitudes, and inferred meanings.[1] The paper lasts approximately 40 minutes, including about 6 minutes for transferring answers in the paper-based format, and each recording is played twice to allow candidates to check their responses. As of November 2025, in computer-based exams, Part 3 uses a drag-and-drop format for multiple matching while maintaining the same task focus.[25][28] In Part 1, candidates listen to six multiple-choice questions based on six short extracts from interviews, conversations, or monologues, typically featuring two speakers per extract. This part focuses on understanding the overall message, purpose, function, or speaker's attitude and opinion, with options provided for selection.[1] Part 2 involves eight sentence-completion tasks from a single monologue, such as a radio interview or talk, where candidates fill in gaps with words or short phrases to capture specific information or stated opinions.[1] Part 3 requires completing six multiple-matching questions based on a discussion among several speakers, often in an academic or professional setting, by matching six speakers to eight options related to two tasks, testing the ability to identify gist, main points, and specific details from extended speech.[1] Finally, Part 4 presents ten multiple-choice questions on a lecture-style monologue, evaluating comprehension of inferred attitudes, opinions, and the development of an argument.[1] The audio recordings feature a variety of native-speaker accents, including British, North American, Australian, and others, to reflect real-world diversity, and cover topics ranging from personal experiences to academic or workplace issues.[1] Each correct answer is worth 1 mark, resulting in a total of 30 marks for the paper, which contributes 20% to the overall exam score and is scaled accordingly.[25] This structure emphasizes advanced listening comprehension without requiring prior knowledge of the topics.[1]Speaking Paper
The Speaking paper of the C1 Advanced exam assesses candidates' ability to communicate effectively in English through spoken interaction, typically conducted face-to-face with two examiners and in pairs of candidates.[1] The test lasts 15 minutes for pairs, though it extends to 23 minutes for groups of three if necessary, and may be adapted for individual candidates in exceptional cases.[1] It consists of four parts designed to evaluate a range of speaking skills, from personal responses to collaborative discussions, emphasizing fluency and interaction in a paired format.[1] The structure progresses from individual input to joint interaction, simulating real-life communicative scenarios. In Part 1, lasting about 2 minutes, the interlocutor engages each candidate in a short interview with questions on familiar topics such as work, studies, or hobbies, allowing candidates to provide personal information and express opinions briefly.[1] This part focuses on general interactional language and sets a relaxed tone for the test.[1] Part 2, which takes around 4 minutes, involves individual long turns. Each candidate is given a prompt with two photographs to compare and contrast, speaking for 1 minute, after which the partner responds briefly for about 30 seconds; the roles are then reversed.[1] In Part 3, approximately 4 minutes long, candidates collaborate using a visual prompt, such as a diagram or plan, to exchange ideas, evaluate options, and negotiate toward a decision.[1] This part highlights skills in sustaining interaction, negotiating meaning, and handling abstract concepts related to themes like society or the environment.[1] Part 4 extends the discussion from Part 3 for about 5 minutes, with the interlocutor leading questions on broader, more abstract topics to deepen the conversation and explore opinions in depth.[1] Candidates are expected to justify views, agree or disagree, and develop arguments fluidly.[1] Assessment of the Speaking paper is based on five equally weighted criteria, each scored on a 0–5 band scale: Grammatical Resource (range and accuracy of structures), Lexical Resource (vocabulary breadth and precision), Discourse Management (fluency, coherence, and turn-taking), Pronunciation (intelligibility and features like stress and intonation), and Interactive Communication (responsiveness and negotiation).[1] The assessor scores these criteria, with the interlocutor providing a global achievement mark.[1] The paired format particularly emphasizes fluency, coherence in linking ideas, and the negotiation of meaning through active listening and response.[1] This aligns with CEFR C1 descriptors for spontaneous, flexible use of language in social and professional contexts.[1]Timing and Logistics
Duration and Scheduling
The C1 Advanced exam consists of four papers with a combined duration of approximately 4 hours, though the Speaking paper is typically scheduled on a separate day from the other three, which are usually completed in one session.[25][2] The Reading and Use of English paper is allocated 90 minutes, testing candidates' ability to handle complex texts through a variety of tasks.[25] The Writing paper also lasts 90 minutes, requiring production of two pieces in response to given prompts.[25] The Listening paper runs for about 40 minutes, involving audio recordings followed by comprehension questions.[6] Finally, the Speaking paper takes about 15 minutes per pair of candidates, assessing interactive and individual speaking skills.[25] Scheduling for the C1 Advanced exam varies by test format and location, with paper-based versions offered up to six times per year at authorized centers, while computer-based options provide greater flexibility with more frequent sessions throughout the year.[7][9] Annually, up to 33 exam dates may be available globally, allowing candidates to select from a calendar of sessions coordinated by local centers.[29] Candidates are advised to book their exam through an authorized center as early as possible, ideally 2-3 months in advance, to secure availability and accommodate preparation timelines.[30] Factors such as high demand during peak periods—often preceding major academic intakes in September or January—can lead to waitlists or limited spots at popular centers.[9]Test Formats and Centers
The C1 Advanced exam is administered at over 2,800 authorized test centers worldwide, spanning more than 130 countries, ensuring accessibility for candidates globally.[31] These centers include partnerships with organizations such as the British Council and other Cambridge English-approved venues, all of which undergo regular inspections to maintain high standards of security and exam integrity.[31] Candidates can locate a nearby center using the official online search tool provided by Cambridge English, which allows filtering by exam type, date, and location.[31] The exam is available in two formats: paper-based and computer-based (also referred to as digital), offering flexibility based on candidate preference and center availability.[2] In the paper-based format, candidates use traditional materials including pencils, erasers, and optical mark recognition (OMR) answer sheets for multiple-choice sections, while the Listening paper is delivered via audio CDs played through center equipment.[25] This format suits those who prefer handwriting for the Writing paper and manual navigation through questions.[25] The computer-based format delivers the Reading and Use of English, Writing, and Listening papers directly on-screen via secure software, with immediate audio playback through headphones for the Listening section and keyboard typing for the Writing tasks.[25] Navigation tools, such as highlighting and word counters, are integrated to mimic real-world digital interactions, and results are typically available faster—in 5 to 10 working days—compared to 4 to 6 weeks for paper-based exams.[5] Both formats assess the same skills and content, with no differences in difficulty or scoring.[32] On exam day, candidates must arrive 30 to 60 minutes early to allow time for administrative processes, depending on center guidelines. Upon arrival, security checks include presenting valid photo ID (such as a passport or national ID) matching the registration details, having a photo taken for verification, and undergoing a search to ensure no prohibited items are brought into the exam room.[33] Personal items like mobile phones, smartwatches, notes, or bags are not permitted in the testing area to uphold exam security; clear plastic bags may be provided for storage in some centers.[33] The Speaking paper is conducted face-to-face with an examiner and another candidate.[26]Assessment and Scoring
Cambridge English Scale
The Cambridge English Scale is a standardized scoring system used across Cambridge English exams, including C1 Advanced, with scores ranging from 80 to 230 for each skill and an overall score, enabling direct comparison of performance between different exams and levels.[34] For C1 Advanced, scores typically fall between 160 and 210, where 180 to 210 corresponds to the C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), while scores of 200 to 210 indicate C2 proficiency.[35] This scale was introduced in 2015 to provide a more transparent and consistent way to report results, replacing earlier grade-based systems.[34] Raw marks from each paper are converted to Cambridge English Scale scores through a process that ensures reliability and comparability, though the exact formula is not publicly disclosed and is determined using data from pre-testing with representative candidate groups.[34] For example, the Reading and Use of English paper has a maximum of 56 raw marks, which are scaled to a band of approximately 180 to 210 for C1-level performance; a raw score of around 43 might convert to a scaled score of 200, depending on the test version's difficulty adjustments made via pre-testing.[1] Similarly, other papers like Writing (maximum 40 raw marks) and Listening (maximum 30 raw marks) undergo individual scaling to the 80-230 range, with Speaking assessed on a 0-30 scale based on examiner ratings across criteria such as grammatical resource and discourse management.[1] This conversion accounts for variations in test difficulty, ensuring that a scaled score of 200 represents consistent proficiency regardless of the specific exam administration.[34] Each of the four papers—Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—is scored separately on the Cambridge English Scale from 0 to 230, with the overall score calculated as the unweighted average of these individual scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.[34] There is no pass or fail per paper; instead, all contribute equally to the overall result, providing a balanced profile of a candidate's abilities across skills.[35] Scores below 160 are reported but do not qualify for certification at C1 level.[35] The scale's benefits include enhanced comparability not only within the Cambridge English portfolio but also with other international assessments like IELTS and TOEFL through CEFR alignment, allowing institutions to interpret results more readily.[34] It promotes transparency by providing precise numerical scores rather than broad bands, aiding universities, employers, and immigration authorities in making informed decisions about candidates' English proficiency.[35]| Score Band | CEFR Level | Grade (C1 Advanced) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200–210 | C2 | A | Demonstrates ability at the level above C1 |
| 180–199 | C1 | B or C | Meets C1 Advanced requirements |
| 160–179 | B2 | - | Below C1; qualifies for B2 certificate |