A B1 Preliminary qualification shows that you have mastered the basics of English and now have practical language skills
for everyday use.
Cambridge B1 Preliminary & B1 Preliminary for Schools
Reasons to choose B1 PET:- develop your ability to communicate in English for
practical tasks and situations.
- gain a valuable qualification that is accepted worldwide.- improve your work, study and travel prospects.
Reasons to choose B1 PET for Schools:- easily integrated into a school’s curriculum.- comprehensive support in exam preparation
and administration.
- part of a suite of exams that offer step-by-step
progression for students.
A B1 Preliminary qualification shows that a
student can:
- read simple textbooks and articles in English- write letters and emails on everyday subjects- understand factual information- show awareness of opinions and mood in spoken
and written English.

B1 Preliminary & B1 Preliminary for schools

Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) and B1 Preliminary for Schools are both English language exams offered by Cambridge Assessment English. These exams are designed for learners at the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

While the language level is the same, B1 Preliminary for Schools may include topics related to school, hobbies, and everyday activities that are more relatable to younger learners.

B1 Preliminary for Schools is often chosen by schools as it aligns well with the language abilities of school-age learners.

Both exams are a great way for learners to demonstrate their English language proficiency at the intermediate level. They provide a solid foundation for further language learning and development.

What coursebooks are used for the B1 Preliminary Exam course?

OWL uses Complete Preliminary
for Schools ...
... and the Open World series.

One World Learning follow two main coursebooks which are supplemented as required with pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary Booster classes.

Cambridge Complete: Complete series maximizes students’ performance with the Complete approach to language development and exam training. Cambridge Complete creates a stimulating learning environment with eye-catching images, easy-to-navigate units, and fun topics.

Complete is trusted by millions of candidates worldwide. This course allows you to maximise performance with the Complete approach to language development and exam training. Build confidence through our unique understanding of the exam and insights from previous candidate performance, and the Complete exam journey for successful and stress-free outcomes. Online Practice offers additional practice in grammar and vocabulary. Downloadable Class Audio containing the necessary listening material is provided.

Open World: Embark on a journey beyond the traditional boundaries between exam preparation and real-world language with Open World Series. A unique exam journey in the Student’s Book maximises students’ performance. Exam Training tasks build confidence allowing them to progress to full task practice in the Exam focus. Real World sections open up language knowledge with listening tasks, videos and texts introducing common yet surprising expression, while mobile animations spark learning before or after class with Grammar on the move. Optional Push yourself sections throughout the book extend students’ capability and confidence to the next level. Online Practice offers additional practice in grammar and vocabulary.

What’s included in a B1 Preliminary Exam course?

A B1 Preliminary (PET) exam course is designed to prepare students for the Cambridge English B1 Preliminary exam. These courses typically cover a range of language skills and include activities that help students become familiar with the format of the exam. Downloadable class audio containing the necessary listening material is provided. Classes are 90-minutes in length.

  • Practice in understanding spoken English in various contexts such as conversations, interviews, and radio broadcasts.

  • Activities to improve reading comprehension, including understanding main ideas, details, and inference. Practice with different types of texts such as articles, emails, and short stories.

  • Guidance on how to write different types of texts, such as emails, articles, and short messages. Emphasis on clarity, coherence, and proper use of language.

  • Oral communication practice, including participating in conversations, expressing opinions, and responding to questions. Specific preparation for the speaking part of the B1 Preliminary exam.

  • Review and reinforcement of grammar rules and vocabulary relevant to the B1 level. Activities to expand vocabulary and use language accurately.

  • Regular practice with mock exams and practice tests to familiarize students with the exam format, time constraints, and types of questions they will encounter.

  • Guidance on effective exam strategies, time management, and tips for approaching different sections of the B1 Preliminary exam.

  • Regular feedback on students’ performance, including correction of errors and suggestions for improvement.

  • Provision of course materials, textbooks, and supplementary resources that cover the specific content and skills assessed in the B1 Preliminary exam.

  • Encouragement and guidance for independent study, allowing students to reinforce what they’ve learned in class and further develop their language skills.

Some frequently asked questions in the exam?

What’s in the exam?

The test has four sections and lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutesCEFR Scale Score: 140-159 (CEFR is the Common European Framework Reference). Find out more about the CEFR here.

Brief content of B1 Preliminary exam
B1 PaperContentMarks (% of total)
Reading (about 45 minutes)6 parts/ 32 questions25%
Writing (45 minutes)2 parts25%
Listening (about 30 minutes)4 parts/25 questions25%
Speaking (10-12 minutes)4 parts25%
Details showing the format, content and timings for each section of the Cambridge exams.

Where can I take the test?

There are over 2,800 centres in 130 countries around the world. All of them are inspected by Cambridge English and meet our high standards.  Contact One World Learning to arrange a test date and to check prices and booking fees.

When can I take the test?

One World Learning can arrange with your nearest test centre. There are frequent dates with over 20 tests a year. Contact One World Learning  for this year’s dates.

Is the exam paper or computer based?

The availability of computer-based exams may vary depending on the specific exam and the location where it is being administered. Most Cambridge English exams have transitioned to computer-based formats, allowing candidates to take the test on a computer. Candidates are, of course, still able to take the traditional paper based version of the exam.

What is the CEFR?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This makes it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing, such as teachers or learners, to see the level of different qualifications. It also means that employers and educational institutions can easily compare our qualifications to other exams in their country.

What materials do I need?

One World Learning provide you with an online folder with your course material available for download. However, there are several essential requirements to ensure a smooth and effective learning experience.

  • A personal computer or laptop with up-to-date hardware and software is necessary.

  • Classes contain video and audio playback so a stable and high-speed internet connection is recommended for attending online classes.

  • A webcam and microphone are essential for participating in virtual classes and discussions. Most computers come equipped with built in webcams and mics.

  • Headphones or earphones can help reduce background noise and provide a better audio experience during online classes.

  • Set up a dedicated and quiet study space where you can focus on your online classes without distractions.

  • Have digital or physical note-taking tools ready. This could be a notebook, digital note-taking app, or any other method you find effective.

By ensuring that you have these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a positive and productive online learning experience.