The Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) exam is the highest-level English qualification, proving you can communicate with near-native fluency. This page covers the exact exam pattern — sections, timings, question counts, marking, and pass criteria — so you know exactly what to expect on test day.
Exam Overview
The CPE exam is designed for learners who have mastered English. It consists of four papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The total test time is approximately 4 hours. Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale, with scores ranging from 200 to 230. A score of 200 or above is a pass (Grade C or higher).
Paper 1: Reading and Use of English (1 hour 30 minutes)
This paper combines reading comprehension and language knowledge. It has 7 parts and 53 questions. The total raw score is 44 marks (some questions carry multiple marks).
- Part 1 – Multiple-choice cloze: 8 questions (1 mark each) – choose the correct word to fill gaps.
- Part 2 – Open cloze: 8 questions (1 mark each) – fill gaps with one word.
- Part 3 – Word formation: 8 questions (1 mark each) – transform a root word to fit the gap.
- Part 4 – Key word transformations: 6 questions (2 marks each) – rewrite sentences using a given word.
- Part 5 – Multiple choice: 6 questions (2 marks each) – answer comprehension questions on a long text.
- Part 6 – Gapped text: 7 questions (2 marks each) – restore paragraphs to a jumbled text.
- Part 7 – Multiple matching: 10 questions (1 mark each) – match statements to sections of a text.
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Paper 2: Writing (1 hour 30 minutes)
This paper has two parts, each requiring a written response. Total marks: 40 (20 per question).
- Part 1 – Compulsory essay: Write a 240–280 word essay based on two given texts. You must synthesise and evaluate arguments.
- Part 2 – Choice task: Choose one from four options: article, letter, report, or review. Word count: 280–320 words.
Paper 3: Listening (approximately 40 minutes)
The Listening paper has 4 parts and 30 questions. Each correct answer is worth 1 mark. Total raw score: 30.
- Part 1 – Multiple choice: 6 questions – short extracts, choose the correct answer from three options.
- Part 2 – Sentence completion: 9 questions – fill in missing words from a monologue.
- Part 3 – Multiple choice: 5 questions – longer conversation, choose correct answer.
- Part 4 – Multiple matching: 10 questions – match speakers to statements.
Paper 4: Speaking (16 minutes per pair of candidates)
The Speaking test is taken with one or two other candidates. It has 3 parts and is assessed on four criteria: Grammatical Resource, Lexical Resource, Discourse Management, Pronunciation, and Interactive Communication. Each criterion is scored from 0–5, and the total is converted to a Speaking band score.
- Part 1 – Interview (2 minutes): Answer personal questions.
- Part 2 – Collaborative task (4 minutes): Discuss a scenario with your partner.
- Part 3 – Individual long turn (2 minutes each): Present and defend an opinion on a topic.
- Part 4 – Discussion (5 minutes): Broader discussion with the examiner and partner.
Marking Scheme and Pass Criteria
- Cambridge English Scale scores:
- Grade A: 220–230
- Grade B: 213–219
- Grade C: 200–212
- Level C1 (below C2): 180–199
- Passing: A score of 200 or above (Grade C or higher) is a pass and certifies C2 proficiency. Scores between 180 and 199 indicate C1 level.
- Weighting: Each paper contributes 25% to the overall score. The Reading and Use of English paper is weighted proportionally (44 marks vs 30–40 in other papers).
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Key Points to Remember
- You must take all four papers on the same day (Speaking may be on a different day within a window).
- There is no negative marking for wrong answers in Reading and Use of English or Listening.
- Writing tasks are assessed holistically by trained examiners using detailed criteria.
- Speaking is recorded for quality assurance.