The Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly called CAE) is a high-level qualification that shows you can use English confidently and effectively in academic, professional, and social situations. It’s widely accepted by universities, employers, and government bodies around the world.

You should take C1 Advanced if you:

• Already hold a B2 certificate or equivalent level

• Want to study or work in an English-speaking environment

• Need official proof of advanced English for visa or job applications

Preparing for C1 doesn’t just help you pass a test — it helps you sound natural, precise, and persuasive in real-life communication.

C1 Advanced has four papers, each designed to test different language skills:

1. Reading & Use of English (1h30m) – grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension

2. Writing (1h30m) – two tasks (an essay plus one of: letter, report, review, or proposal)

3. Listening (about 40 mins) – comprehension of talks, discussions, and interviews

4. Speaking (15 mins) – a face-to-face test with another candidate and two examiners

In my course, we go through each paper using real Cambridge materials, so you’ll know exactly how the exam feels before test day.

Many students have excellent general English but still miss the advanced score because they:

• Don’t use enough range and precision in grammar or vocabulary

• Struggle to organise complex ideas logically

• Sound fluent but lack natural connectors or academic tone

• Avoid taking risks with language

At C1, examiners look for flexibility — how well you can adapt your style for different situations. In my lessons, we practise using advanced structures naturally, improve phrasing for essays and proposals, and build confidence in expressing nuanced opinions.

The Speaking test lasts about 15 minutes and has four parts:

1. Short personal questions

2. Comparing and discussing visual prompts

3. Collaborative task with another candidate

4. Individual long turn (giving your opinion)

You’re assessed on fluency, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and interaction. We’ll practise with real examiner scripts so you learn to:

• Develop complex ideas naturally

• Respond to your partner effectively

• Avoid over-rehearsed answers

• Show confidence and spontaneity

By the time you take the real test, it’ll feel like a natural conversation — not an interrogation.

For most learners already around a strong B2 level, it takes 3–6 months of focused preparation to reach C1. If you’re close to the level already, 8–12 weeks of intensive study may be enough.

The key is not just grammar drills but strategic training — learning how the exam is scored and building advanced writing and speaking habits. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your current level, schedule, and target date.

You’ll receive a score from 160–210 on the Cambridge scale:

• 200–210 = Grade A (C2 level)

• 193–199 = Grade B (C1 pass)

• 180–192 = Grade C (C1 pass)

• 160–179 = Level B2 certificate

Your certificate never expires and is accepted worldwide. We’ll regularly use mock tests to track your progress so you know exactly when you’re ready to book the official exam.