As an academic I often get asked, What can I do to prepare for Cambridge B2 First?

This is a great question, there are many different tests on offer, it depends on your expected outcomes and needs, but for overall language development the Cambridge suite is among the best. 

This is a great question, there are many different tests on offer, it depends on your expected outcomes and needs, but for overall language development the Cambridge suite is among the best.

Firstly, familiarise yourself with the test and understand the exam format and timings for the various sections.

Learn the four sections: Reading & Use of English, writing, listening, and speaking.

The reading & Use of English is 1 hour 15 minutes comprising 52 questions, the writing is 1 hour 20 minutes divided into two parts, the listening is 40 minutes made up of 30 questions and the speaking ranges between 14 minutes per pair of candidates and 20 minutes if you are working in a group of three.

• A good vocabulary will help with all aspects of the test, whilst improving your vocabulary & grammar – don’t forget to study phrasal verbs, collocations, and common B2-level grammar structures more commonly known as upper intermediate in most schools (e.g., conditionals, passive voice, a solid knowledge of the 12 tenses). One of the biggest keys to success on these Cambridge tests is developing and being able to use your wide range of vocabulary.
• With that in mind, prepare a good vocabulary list and utilise a word transformation chart to help build the vocabulary quicker, assisting you to be able to recognise the various parts of speech.

• Practice reading & Use of English – read articles, magazines, blogs, and books in English. Do past exam papers and timed exercises to improve speed and accuracy.

• Develop writing skills – This can be as easy as keeping a journal to keep track of your journey. Practice writing essays, reports, reviews, and emails using formal and informal language. Most importantly stick to the exam word limits, this applies to all parts of the test.

• Enhance listening skills – listen to English podcasts, audiobooks, and news reports. practice listening exercises with different accents.

• Prepare for the speaking test – practice speaking on different topics, describe pictures, and hold discussions with a partner. Don’t be afraid to use English outside class with other English speakers in everyday situations. For example, you could tell a family member, classmate or friend about your day or post a comment in English in response to something. Take mock exams – simulate real exam conditions with past papers to improve time management and confidence. Follow time limits when you do practice tests. This will help you prepare for the real exam, when you will have limited time to complete the tasks and fill in the answer sheet. Do not forget to check your answers as you go.

Use online resources – explore websites like Cambridge English, BBC learning English, and YouTube for extra practice.

It is very difficult to maintain focus and stay disciplined; signing up for a preparation course that will help you dramatically. Here at Greenwich we offer a 12-week closed preparation course for B2 FCE First, this will help you stay consistent and will maximise your outcome, giving you value for money. Get feedback – have your teacher review your writing and speaking to identify areas for improvement.

Remember to study a little every day rather than cramming before the exam. At the end of the day give yourself enough preparation time before the exam to prepare adequately for the test, now you are ready to take the test it is important to note there are two versions of the test, computer version or paper based. Each comes with challenges both require setting and understanding time limits, however when doing the paper test time must be left for transferring your answers to the answer sheet.

The candidate must have good written skills and legible handwriting this will make it easier for the examiners to read your work. When attempting the computer-based test consideration must be given to ensure that the candidate has the basic computer skills for the task.

Finally, after all the preparation think about your learning goals: Why are you studying for this exam? If you pass the exam, what will this qualification help you do in future? One good feature about the Cambridge exam is that the result is valid indefinitely, unlike the IELTS which is valid for only 2 years.

Attend one of our free Cambridge Open Days to have your level assessed and receive a personalised study plan tailored just for you. Also, follow us on Instagram to see how our students are crushing the exam! 

So, what are you waiting for, make the commitment, apply now, join the class and fast-track your future goals.

Believe in yourself and don’t let anything stop you from achieving your goals.