First Certificate in English (FCE)

First Certificate in English (FCE) is an exam for people who need to prove they can use everyday written and spoken English at an upper-intermediate level for work or study purposes. This exam uses real-life situations that are especially designed to help you communicate more effectively and learn the language skills you need.

FCE has five papers:

Reading: 1 hour

You will need to demonstrate ability to read and understand information in fiction and non-fiction books, journals, newspapers and magazines.

Writing: 1 hour 20 minutes

You will have to produce two different pieces of writing such as a short story, a letter, an article, a report, a review or an essay.

Use of English: 45 minutes

You will be tested on how well you control your grammar and vocabulary.

Listening: 40 minutes

You will need to show you can understand the meaning of a range of spoken material, including news programmes, speeches, stories and anecdotes and public announcements.

Speaking: 15 minutes

You will take the Speaking test with one or two other candidates, and you will be required to demonstrate different types of speaking, including by yourself and in discussion with the examiner and other candidates.

More information at http://www.cambridgeesol.org/exams/general-english/fce.html