Online Cambridge C1 Advanced Exam (CAE) Preparation
What is it?
The Cambridge C1 is an internationally recognised English qualification that demonstrates you can communicate confidently at C1 level in English. It is a challenging exam, but once you have the certificate, you have it for life! It is also my favourite exam to teach.
Is it for me?
This exam will be perfect for you if:
✓ You can understand a wide range of challenging texts and follow complex arguments.
✓ You can communicate confidently and effectively in English, including in academic and professional situations.
✓ You can express your ideas clearly, using a good range of vocabulary and grammar.
✓ You want to study, work or live in an English-speaking environment and need to demonstrate a high level of English.
✓ You are currently around B2/C1 level and want to develop your English further.
✓ You want an internationally recognised qualification that demonstrates advanced English ability.
What do they test in the exam?
This exam consists of 4 papers:
Reading & Use of English
Part 1 - Multiple-choice Cloze
Part 2 - Open Cloze
Part 3 - Word Formation
Part 4 - Key Word Transformation
Part 5 - Multiple-choice Reading Comprehension
Part 6 - Cross-text Multiple Matching
Part 7 - Gapped Text
Part 8 - Multiple Matching
Writing
Part 1 - Essay
Part 2 - A choice of task - Informal / Semi-formal Email, Review, Report, Proposal
Listening
Part 1 - Multiple-choice (short extracts)
Part 2 - Sentence Completion
Part 3 - Multiple-choice (long extract)
Part 4 - Multiple Matching
Speaking
Part 1 - Interview
Part 2 - Long Turn (comparing 2 photos)
Part 3 - Collaborative Task (with your partner)
Part 4 - Discussion with the examiner
This is a pass / fail exam. Candidates need to get an overall score of 60% to pass.
The Course Structure
Monday - Thursday
4 weeks
1.5 hours a day (24 hours in total)
Choose 1 time slot for the course
16:00-17:30 / 17:30-19:00 / 19:00-20:30
Week 1 - Exam overview & study skills
Week 2 - Building on exam skills & practice
Week 3 - Practice Exams
Week 4 - Practice Exams
By the end of each course you will have completed a number of practice exams, including speaking and writing practice.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Do I need to know my level before applying?
No, a general idea would be helpful but it is not necessary.
Do I need to take a placement test?
No, we will talk via email and telephone - I will know your level very quickly.
When does the course start?
Each course starts when we have a minimum of 2 students.
What do I need to bring to class?
All you need is:
A computer with a webcam to connect to Zoom
An email account to connect to Google Classroom
A notebook and pen
That’s it!
Do we have practice exams?
Yes, we will be doing practice exams from week 1. I explain each section first and we complete the exam as a class. By week 3, we will start having “mock practice exams” with time limits and exam conditions.
Do you organise my official exam for me?
No. You book and pay for your exam when you want. I will recommend if you are ready or not, but ultimately it is your decision.
Does the course include homework?
Yes!
Do you provide feedback on my progress?
Of course. I will provide detailed feedback on both your speaking and your writing from the perspective of an examiner.
Can I change my class time once the course starts?
No, unless there is another course happening at the same time.
What happens if I miss a class?
That’s your responsibility. Once the course starts, everything is locked in.
What happens if I need to stop in the middle of a course?
Talk to me! I understand that life can be challenging at times. We can either postpone your course, or I can offer you a partial refund.