B1 Preliminary (PET) Cambridge English Exam for AdultsB1 Preliminary, formerly known as the Preliminary English Test (PET), is a Cambridge English Qualification at B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is designed specifically for adult learners and demonstrates practical English language skills for everyday use, such as in work, study, or travel.
Reading
B1 (PET) Exam – Reading Part 1 – Multiple choice – 5 questions
Part 2 – Matching – 5 questions
Part 3 – Multiple choice – 5 questions
Part 4 – Gapped text – 5 questions
Part 5 – Multiple choice cloze – 6 points
Part 6 – Open Cloze – 6 questions
Listening
B1 (PET) Listening Exam – Part 1 (Multiple choice) – Identify key information
B1 (PET) Listening Exam – Part 2 (Multiple choice) – Listening for Gist
B1 (PET) Listening Exam – Part 3 (Gap fill)
B1 (PET) Listening Exam – Part 4 (Multiple choice)
Writing
B1 (PET) – Writing Exam – Part 1 (Writing an email)
B1 (PET) – Writing Exam – Part 2 (Choice between an article or a story)
Speaking
B1 (PET) – Speaking Exam – Part 1 Interview
B1 (PET) – Speaking Exam – Part 2 Extended turn
B1 (PET) – Speaking Exam – Part 3 Discussion
B1 (PET) – Speaking Exam – Part 4 General conversation
There is also a B1 Preliminary for Schools version tailored to younger learners’ interests, but the adult version uses topics relevant to general and higher education or professional contexts.
Key Facts
- CEFR Level: B1 (Independent user)
- Skills Tested: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking (each worth 25% of the total score)
- Total Exam Length: About 2 hours 20 minutes (plus Speaking, which is separate)
- Format: Available in paper-based or computer-based (digital) versions
- Scores: Reported on the Cambridge English Scale (120–170 overall). A score of 140–159 achieves B1 level (Pass at Grade C or B); 160–170 achieves B2 level (Grade A). Scores 120–139 receive an A2 level statement. ef.edu
- Validity: The certificate does not expire and is recognized worldwide by employers, educational institutions, and governments for demonstrating intermediate English proficiency.
The exam proves you can handle everyday English situations, such as reading simple articles, writing emails, understanding conversations, and participating in discussions.
Exam Format and Structure
Reading
(45 minutes, 6 parts, 32 questions, 25% of total)Tests your ability to understand main points from signs, newspapers, magazines, and other texts.
- Part 1: 5 multiple-choice questions on short real-world notices, messages, or texts.
- Part 2: Match 5 descriptions of people to 8 short texts.
- Part 3: Read a longer text and answer 5 multiple-choice questions.
- Part 4: Gapped text – choose the correct sentence for 5 gaps.
- Part 5: 6 multiple-choice cloze (word choice) gaps in a text.
- Part 6: 6 open cloze gaps (write one word in each). cambridgeenglish.org
Writing
(45 minutes, 2 parts, 2 questions, 25% of total)Tests vocabulary, grammar, structure, and communication skills.
- Part 1: Write an email (about 100 words) responding to a prompt with notes to address.
- Part 2: Choose one: Write an article or a story (about 100 words) based on a prompt. esl-lounge.com
Listening
(30 minutes including transfer time, 4 parts, 25 questions, 25% of total)Tests understanding of spoken English in everyday contexts like announcements, conversations, and discussions.
- Part 1: 7 short recordings with multiple-choice picture or text options.
- Part 2: Longer monologue or conversation with matching or multiple-choice.
- Part 3: Longer conversation or interview with multiple-choice questions.
- Part 4: Monologue or conversation with gap-filling or similar tasks. scribd.com
Speaking
(10–12 minutes per pair of candidates, 4 parts, 25% of total)Conducted face-to-face with one or two examiners and usually one other candidate. It assesses interactive communication, pronunciation, and fluency.
- Part 1 (2–3 minutes): Personal questions about yourself, your life, likes/dislikes.
- Part 2 (2–3 minutes): Describe one photograph in detail (about 1 minute each).
- Part 3 (3 minutes): Collaborative task – discuss options with your partner using visual prompts.
- Part 4 (3–4 minutes): Further discussion on the topic from Part 3. test-english.com
Who Should Take It?
Adults who have studied English and want to:
- Prove intermediate proficiency for work, immigration, or further study.
- Build confidence in practical English.
- Progress to higher exams like B2 First (FCE).
It is ideal for those who can already handle basic English but want a recognized qualification for real-life situations.
- Familiarize yourself with the exact format using official sample papers and practice tests from Cambridge English.
- Practice all four skills equally. Focus on everyday vocabulary and grammar at B1 level (e.g., describing experiences, opinions, future plans).
- For Writing: Always address all points in the prompts and aim for clear organization.
- For Speaking: Practice with a partner; expand answers beyond yes/no.
- Use official resources like Prepare, Compact, or digital Test & Train materials. Free practice tests are widely available online. cambridgeenglish.org
- Take timed mock exams to manage time effectively.
Why Take B1 Preliminary?
Passing demonstrates you can communicate effectively in English-speaking environments, opening doors to better job opportunities, academic programs, or personal growth. The qualification is globally recognized and provides a clear Statement of Results with individual skill scores.For the latest information, sample tests, and registration, visit the official Cambridge English website: cambridgeenglish.org.
cambridgeenglish.orgStart preparing today—consistent practice with authentic materials is the key to success!