The C2 Proficiency (CPE)
Level C2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
A C2 Proficiency (CPE) certificate is Cambridge´s highest-level qualification. With this certificate you can show the world that you have mastered English at an exceptional level and that you can communicate with the fluency and sophistication of a highly competent English speaker.
Preparing for and passing the exam means you have the level of English that is needed to study or work in a very senior professional or academic environment, for example on a postgraduate or PhD programme.
The C2 Proficiency (CPE) certificate shows that you can:
- study demanding subjects at the highest level, including postgraduate and PhD programmes
- negotiate and persuade effectively at a senior management level in international business settings
- understand the main ideas of complex pieces of writing
- talk about complex or sensitive issues, and deal confidently with difficult questions
Worldwide recognition
Being the highest achievable proof of language competence, the C2 Proficiency (CPE) is accepted by thousands of employers, governments, professional bodies, and universities globally.
International top-employers like Coca-Cola, IBM, Nestlé, Nokia, Procter&Gamble and Sony all hire employees with a C2 Proficiency (CPE) certificate.
The Exam Format
Cambridge exams are designed to ensure standardised test conditions for people of all linguistic backgrounds and nationalities and are supported by a dedicated global research programme.
The exam covers all four language skills (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) and knowledge of grammar and vocabulary.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Target: Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction and non-fiction books, journals, newspapers and manuals.
Check your answers (see PDF) as you do the test – once the test has finished you will not be able to check them anymore.
You may need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Target: Requires you to be able to write a variety of text types, such as essays, reports and reviews.
Sample Test - Writing Checklist
You may need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests.
There is no answer key for the Writing Paper, but you should take a look at the Writing Checklist.
Duration: 40 minutes
Target: Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as lectures, speeches and interviews.
Check your answers (see PDF) as you do the test – once the test has finished you will not be able to check them anymore.
You may need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests.
Duration: 16 minutes
Target: Tests your ability to communicate effectively in face-to-face situations. You will take the Speaking test with one or two other candidates.
Ready for Exam-Assessment
Would you like to clarify whether or not you already are at the right level to take the C2 Proficiency (CPE) exam? Ask us for our Ready for Exam-Assessment (free of charge) and a personal consultation!
The exams at The Cambridge Institute are computer-based, which means that you can take the Reading and Use of English, Writing and Listening conveniently on the computer.
To be fully prepared on the exam day, please be so kind as to familiarise yourself with the following video tutorial as well as the computer-based sample tests: