Cambridge English examinations

New exam specifications for 2020

In 2020, Cambridge English Assessment will be updating A2 Key, A2 Key for Schools, B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools exams to ensure they continue to meet the needs of students and teachers.

The updates will include:
  • better alignment across A2 Key and A2 Key for Schools, as well as B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools and above, showing clearer progression from one exam to the next
  • grade changes from Pass with Distinction/Pass with Merit/Pass to Grade A/B/C, in line with other Cambridge English Qualifications
  • separating the Reading and Writing papers for B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools to give candidates a break between papers.



To prepare schools and teachers for these changes, Cambridge Assessment English has launched a new microsite (in English only).

It has been created to help schools and teachers confidently prepare learners for the new exams.

It provides you with:

  • an overview of changes to the exams
  • official Cambridge English preparation materials
  • a video explaining why the exams are being updated
  • handbooks for the revised exams
  • revised word lists
  • new sample papers
  • support materials for preparation centres


The official preparation materials, including the Prepare, Complete and Compact courses for schools, have also been updated to reflect the changes and provide further support.




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