Make sure you understand what will happen before and during both the paper-based and online exam and be prepared for what you will have to do. Familiarise yourself with the Level B2 exam by studying the details about each exam task of your level here. The Sample Exam Tasks page will allow you to try one exam task from each of the four tests.
Exam Day: Level B2
Before the Exam
You should arrive at the local testing centre at least 20 minutes before the start of the exam and wait in front of your specified exam room. You will be invited into the exam room 10-15 mins before the start and will need a photographic identity document (i.e. passport or national ID) which will be checked before and during the exam. The invigilator will tell you where to sit.
After the ID check, you will receive your barcode stickers, and you must stick one on each Answer Sheet. You can only have the following items on your desk 1) photo ID, 2) pens, 3) barcodes, and 4) open food, drink and tissues. You mustn’t make a noise when eating or drinking. Finally, you will be asked to turn your mobile phone off completely. (‘Silent’ mode not enough, as calls can interfere with the audio player).
Before and During the Written Exam
Once the invigilator starts handing out the exam papers*, you must remain silent and must not open the Question Paper until you are told to do so. Instructions and information on the time available are displayed on the front page of the exam paper.
Always transfer your answers onto the Answer Sheet (with a barcode on it) within given the time limit. Should you have any questions during the exam, raise your hand. But, since understanding the task is an important part of the exam itself, the invigilator is not allowed to help you with that.
The time limit for each test refers to the time allowed to complete all of the tasks. However, you are free to complete the individual tasks in any order within the time limit. When the time is up, the invigilator asks you to stop writing immediately. Please, remain silent and stay in your seat until all the papers have been collected.
* The invigilator will tell you when and where you can use a dictionary (see also Detailed Timetable below).
Preparation before the Speaking Test
Wait quietly in front of your preparation room at least 5 minutes before the exam, until you are called in by name. Bring your photo ID, exam barcode stickers and a dictionary (if you plan on using one). When invited in, take the seat allocated by the invigilator.
Instructions and information on the time available are displayed on the front page of the exam paper you receive. Also, remember to stick the barcode on the Speaking test mark sheet and write your name on it, too.
You then have 10 minutes to prepare for Task 2 (Picture Story), taking notes. At the end of the 10 minutes, you and your partner will stop working, and the two of you will be escorted to the Speaking test room. You mustn't talk to anyone at this point! The interlocutor will greet you and from that moment on, you must follow their instructions.
Detailed Timetable of the Paper-Based Exam
Notes
Using a printed dictionary is allowed during the whole of the Reading and Writing tests. Timing for tasks on the Question Paper is a recommendation only. These are the two tests for candidates who only take the written exam.
Announcement of spoken exam schedule
This is the first part for those candidates who only sit for the Spoken exam. You can only use your printed dictionary in the last 5 minutes of the Listening test, when the audio recording allows you to do so.
No matter how much time you have before the afternoon Speaking test, grab a lunch and do something to relax, focus on something completely different to reduce stress.
Printed dictionary permitted during the 10-minute preparation stage for Task 2.