What is the C1 Advanced (CAE) exam?
The Cambridge qualification that proves you can study and work in English at a high level.
In a nutshell
C1 Advanced (formerly the Certificate in Advanced English, or CAE) is a Cambridge English Qualification proving you have advanced English: level C1 on the CEFR.
It’s accepted by thousands of universities and employers as proof you can handle demanding academic and professional English. Like all Cambridge certificates, it never expires.
Who is C1 Advanced for?
C1 Advanced is the right step if you’re already confident in English and want recognised proof for university or career. At C1 you can express ideas fluently, follow complex texts, and use English flexibly in academic and professional settings. It sits one level above B2 First (FCE) and one below C2 Proficiency (CPE), and is the level many universities accept for direct degree entry.
The four papers
Around 4 hours of exam, testing every skill.
| Paper | Time | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Reading & Use of English | 1h 30m | Grammar, vocabulary & reading (8 parts) |
| Writing | 1h 30m | An essay, plus a choice (email, report, review, proposal) |
| Listening | ~40m | Four recorded parts, talks, interviews, conversations |
| Speaking | 15m | Face-to-face with another candidate & two examiners |
How it’s scored
C1 Advanced reports on the Cambridge English Scale from 160 to 210. A score of 180 or above earns the C1 Advanced certificate; 200+ shows you’re performing at C2 level.
| Scale score | Grade / result | Level shown |
|---|---|---|
| 200–210 | Grade A | C2 (above C1) |
| 193–199 | Grade B | C1 |
| 180–192 | Grade C | C1 (pass) |
| 160–179 | Level B2 | Certificate at B2 |
How hard is it, and how long to prepare?
C1 Advanced is a genuine step up from B2. It rewards range and precision. Most students prepare with a focused 8–12 week course, practising the longer Reading & Use of English paper and the more demanding writing tasks. A placement test makes sure C1 Advanced is the right exam for you (rather than B2 First or C2 Proficiency).
Prepare for C1 Advanced with Lexis
Our Cambridge Preparation courses build toward a fixed exam date with real practice papers and expert feedback. Noosa is an official Cambridge examination centre.
Cambridge Preparation (CAE)
Fixed-date C1 Advanced courses with mock exams and speaking practice.
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C1 Advanced: frequently asked questions
Is CAE the same as C1 Advanced?
Is C1 Advanced good enough for university?
What’s the difference between B2 First and C1 Advanced?
CAE or IELTS?
Keep reading
More from the Lexis English exam guides.
Reach C1 · and enjoy Australia while you do it
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