Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)

This examination provides a high-level final qualification in the language for people wishing to use English for professional or study purposes. CAE is recognised by the majority of British universities as an English Language entrance requirement for foreign applicants.

There are five components:

Reading

Candidates are expected to be able to read and understand texts taken from magazines, newspapers, leaflets, etc. They should demonstrate a variety of reading skills including skimming, scanning, deduction of meaning from context and selection of relevant information to complete the given task.

There are four compulsory texts, giving a total of about 3,000 words. There are forty to fifty items. The three main task types are: multiple-matching, multiple-choice, gap-filling (at paragraph level).

Writing

Candidates are expected to complete non-specialist writing tasks in response to the stimuli provided (reading text and task

descriptions). Texts are taken from articles, leaflets, notices, formal and informal letters, etc. Both audience and purpose are made clear.

The first section is compulsory and candidates must complete one or more tasks in response to a reading input which is usually made up of several short texts. The second section involves choosing one of four tasks from a range of writing activities (letters, articles, instructions, messages, etc.). Responses should be about 250 words in length.

Listening

Candidates are expected to understand each text as a whole, gain detailed understanding and appreciate gist and the attitude of the speaker. They must also be able to identify and interpret the context. Texts take the form of announcements, speeches, radio broadcasts, etc.

There are four sections lasting approximately forty-five minutes in all, with a total of about thirty to forty items. The first two sections consist of two short monologues, the third of a longer dialogue/interview and the fourth of conversational extracts. The tasks candidates are asked to perform include the following: information transfer, various types of matching, note completion and multiple choice.

Speaking

Candidates are tested in pairs by two examiners. They must be able to demonstrate a range of oral skills: interactional, social, transactional, negotiation and collaboration.

The candidates first introduce themselves and respond to questions about their interests, careers, etc. Each candidate is then given a set of visual stimuli which serve to encourage a long turn from each candidate. The final two parts are linked. The candidates first complete a collaborative task. This is followed by further discussion between the candidates and both examiners on points which have arisen from the collaborative task.

Structural Competence

Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge of the language system by completing tasks based on authentic passages. They must complete six tasks with a total of approximately seventy items. The tasks are of the following types: gap-filling, proof-reading exercises, text completion, information transfer with register shift, text expansion (of notes etc.).

Weighting of components

Each component is equally weighted and carries 20% of the total marks.

Results

There are three pass grades (A, B and C), and certificates are awarded to all successful candidates. Candidates who achieve a grade D or E are judged not to have reached the required standard for CAE.