Cambridge B1 Preliminary

Overview

B1 Preliminary (also known as PET) is a Cambridge English Qualification that certifies everyday, practical English ability at B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). It is one of Cambridge Assessment English's main qualifications for general English, sitting between A2 Key and B2 First in the Cambridge English suite. The exam has four papers — Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking — and is available as a paper-based or computer-based test, in a general-adult version (B1 Preliminary) and a schools version (B1 Preliminary for Schools) aimed at younger candidates; both test the same CEFR level.

Who can apply

There is no age limit or entry requirement: anyone can register for B1 Preliminary through an authorised exam centre. B1 Preliminary for Schools covers the same level and skills but uses topics and texts suited to school-age candidates, while B1 Preliminary itself is written for adult learners. Candidates are typically learners who already handle routine everyday English — simple conversations, short written messages, straightforward spoken instructions — and want a recognised certificate at B1 level for study, work or personal use.

Exam pattern

The exam has four papers, taken for a total of roughly 2 hours 20 minutes (Reading, Writing and Listening on one day; Speaking is often scheduled on a different day, in pairs or groups of three with two examiners).

The format is the same for the paper-based and computer-based versions of the exam.

Marking and results

Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale, which runs from 120 to 170 for this exam. Candidates get a score for each of the four skills, and these are averaged into one overall score. An overall score of 140–152 gives Grade C, 153–159 Grade B and 160–170 Grade A — all three bands carry a Pass at B1 Preliminary level, with 160+ also recognised at CEFR B2. A score of 120–139 is reported as CEFR A2 on the Statement of Results; at that score candidates do not receive the B1 Preliminary certificate itself. Results and certificates from Cambridge English do not expire, but universities, employers and other organisations set their own rules on how recent a certificate they will accept — some ask for one taken within the last two or three years.

Fees

Cambridge Assessment English does not set one global fee. Each authorised exam centre sets its own price for B1 Preliminary, based on local costs, so the fee differs by country and even by centre within the same country. Candidates should check the exact fee with the exam centre they plan to register through.

How to apply

Cambridge English exams cannot be booked or paid for directly on the Cambridge English website. Candidates register through an authorised exam centre — there are more than 2,800 centres across over 130 countries, found using Cambridge English's online centre search. The chosen centre confirms the available test dates, the fee, the registration deadline, and whether the paper-based or computer-based version is offered locally.

Preparation tips

Cambridge English publishes free official preparation material for B1 Preliminary on its website, including sample papers, handbooks for teachers and example Speaking test videos, so candidates can see the exact task types before test day. Write & Improve gives free automated feedback on practice Writing answers, and Test & Train offers guided practice for all four papers. Because Listening includes a fixed transfer-time window and Speaking is examiner-led in pairs or groups, candidates benefit from timed practice for Listening and Reading, and from spoken practice with a partner for Speaking.