Knowing the B2 First exam structure (formerly called First Certificate in English or FCE) is the first step to preparing well: you will know how many parts it has, how long each lasts and how your score is calculated. B2 First is the Cambridge exam that certifies CEFR level B2, and it assesses four skills: reading and use of English, writing, listening and speaking. In this guide we explain each part, how it is scored and what you need to pass.
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B2 First exam structure: the four papers at a glance
The exam has four papers in the following general format:
| Paper | Number of parts | Approximate duration | What it assesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading and Use of English | 7 | 1 hour 15 minutes | Reading comprehension, grammar and vocabulary |
| Writing | 2 | 1 hour 20 minutes | Written expression |
| Listening | 4 | About 40 minutes | Listening comprehension |
| Speaking | 4 | 14 minutes per pair (20 if three candidates) | Spoken expression |
In total, the papers add up to a little over three and a half hours. Speaking is usually held in a different session from the others, and you can sit the exam on paper or on computer depending on the centre and session. Always confirm these details on the official Cambridge exam format page.
Reading and Use of English: 7 parts
This is the longest paper in number of tasks, combining reading comprehension with grammar and vocabulary applied to a text. In the current structure it has 52 questions, split as follows:
- Parts 1 to 3 (use of English): complete a text by choosing from four options (multiple-choice cloze), fill gaps with no options (open cloze) and form words from a root (word formation).
- Part 4: rewrite a sentence using a given key word without changing its meaning (key word transformation).
- Part 5: read a long text and answer multiple-choice questions.
- Part 6: complete a text with the missing sentences (gapped text).
- Part 7: match questions to sections of one or more texts (multiple matching).
Parts 1 to 4 mainly measure grammar and vocabulary; parts 5 to 7 measure detailed reading and speed in locating information.
Writing: 2 parts
In Writing you produce two texts of about 140 to 190 words each:
- Part 1: a compulsory essay, in which you give your opinion on a topic and justify it with arguments.
- Part 2: a task chosen from several options, such as an article, an email or letter, a report or a review, each with its own register and structure.
Assessors look at content, organisation, vocabulary, grammar and whether the text suits the task type and the target reader. A correct text that doesn’t answer the task will score lower than a simpler one that does.
Listening: 4 parts
The Listening paper lasts about 40 minutes and has 30 questions. Each recording is played twice:
- Part 1: eight short, unrelated extracts with multiple-choice questions.
- Part 2: a monologue where you complete sentences with the information you hear.
- Part 3: five speakers on the same topic, where you match each one to a statement.
- Part 4: a longer conversation or interview with multiple-choice questions.
A good strategy is to read the questions before each recording and note key words as you listen.
Speaking: 4 parts
Speaking is normally done in pairs, with two examiners, and lasts about 14 minutes:
- Part 1: the examiner asks you personal questions about your life, interests and plans.
- Part 2: you compare two photographs and answer a question about them for about a minute.
- Part 3: you talk with your partner to solve a task collaboratively from a set of prompts.
- Part 4: you have a wider discussion with the examiner on the topic of the previous task.
Assessors look at grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, discourse organisation and interaction. Practising with another person is far more useful than rehearsing alone.
B2 First scoring
Scores are expressed on the Cambridge English Scale, from 140 to 190 points. Your final result is calculated as the average of five components: Reading, Use of English, Writing, Listening and Speaking, each with equal weight (20%). Because Reading and Use of English are taken in the same paper, that paper accounts for 40% of the result.
| Score (Cambridge scale) | Grade | Level certified |
|---|---|---|
| 180–190 | Grade A | C1 |
| 173–179 | Grade B | B2 |
| 160–172 | Grade C | B2 |
| 140–159 | Level B1 | B1 (no B2 certificate) |
You need at least 160 points to receive the B2 certificate. According to Cambridge, the overall result is the average of the components, so a weak point in one skill can be offset by the others; still, it is best not to neglect any, because each affects the final score and the certificate shows your result per skill.
How to pass: strategy for each paper
A clear picture of the structure lets you split your study time wisely:
- Reading and Use of English: practise parts 1 to 4 daily with short exercises and train time management in the reading parts.
- Writing: learn the structure of each text type and write regularly; ask a teacher to correct your texts.
- Listening: listen to varied English with different accents and do practice recordings under exam conditions.
- Speaking: practise in pairs, learn to ask for clarification, give opinions and keep your turn.
If you’re not sure how far you have to go, take our free English level test and see how long it takes to get your B2. And if you’re deciding between this exam and others, read which English exam to take or browse our guide to official English exams to compare B2 First, C1 Advanced, IELTS and more.
Prices, dates and requirements: where to check
Fees, exam dates, enrolment requirements and each centre’s conditions change every year and depend on the exam centre, so we don’t list them here. Always check up-to-date information on the official Cambridge English website and with the centre where you’ll sit the exam. For an official summary of tasks and criteria, see the official B2 First handbook.
Prepare for B2 First with a plan
The best preparation combines knowing the format, practising all four skills and taking timed mock exams. If you want support, take a look at our B2 First preparation course, with teachers who correct your writing and speaking, or start with our online English classes.
Want to know if you’re ready for the exam? A BeBest School teacher will assess your level in a free 30-minute trial class. Book your free trial class
FAQ
What’s the difference between B2 First and FCE?
It is the same exam: FCE (First Certificate in English) is the traditional name and B2 First the current one.
How long is the B2 First exam?
The four papers add up to a little over three and a half hours, although Speaking is usually held in a separate session.
How many points do you need to pass?
At least 160 on the Cambridge scale to receive the B2 certificate.
Do you have to pass each paper separately?
According to Cambridge, the overall result is the average of the components, so no minimum mark is required in each one.
Can you take it on computer?
Yes, there is a paper-based and a computer-based version; it depends on the centre and session.
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