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Before You Begin

Understanding the CPE Exam

Read this before Lesson 1. Get the shape of the exam — papers, timing, question types, marking and sample materials — so every lesson lands in context.

Sample Materials

A quick orientation to the physical materials you'll meet on exam day: question papers, OMR answer sheets and Speaking prompts.

Reading & Use of English

Question paper layout

Single booklet · candidates write answers on a separate answer sheet.

  • Cover page with timing (1h 30m) and instructions.
  • Parts 1–4 are the Use of English section (cloze, open cloze, word formation, key word transformations).
  • Parts 5–8 are the Reading section (long text, cross-text matching, gapped text, multiple matching).
  • Answer sheet has 56 numbered items — Parts 4, 5, 6, 7 score 2 marks each.

Reading & Use of English

Answer sheet

Machine-marked OMR sheet · use pencil · one answer per row.

  • Parts 1, 5, 7, 8 — shade A/B/C/D ovals.
  • Parts 2, 3 — write the word in CAPITAL LETTERS, one letter per box.
  • Part 4 — write the 3–6 word transformation in the box.
  • Part 6 — shade A–D ovals (which writer expresses each view).

Writing

Answer sheet (booklet)

Hand-written · examiner marks holistically against the 4 scales.

  • Part 1 essay (compulsory) on the first answer sheet.
  • Part 2 task type chosen by the candidate, second answer sheet.
  • Aim for the 220–260 word range; under or significantly over loses marks.
  • Cross out drafts; only the final answer is marked.

Listening

Answer sheet

Filled during the test, then 5 minutes to transfer answers.

  • Parts 1, 3 — shade A/B/C (or A/B/C/D for Part 3).
  • Part 2 — write words / short phrases in CAPITAL LETTERS.
  • Part 4 — shade A–H for each of the two tasks (×5 speakers).
  • Each recording is played twice; spelling counts in Part 2.

Speaking

Examiner materials

Two examiners: interlocutor (speaks) and assessor (silent).

  • Part 2 — colour photo booklet with three photos per candidate (you compare two).
  • Part 3 — single prompt sheet with a central question and five written options around it.
  • Part 4 — examiner script of abstract follow-up discussion questions.
  • All tasks timed by the interlocutor with a stopwatch.