What is the Cambridge Placement Test?

The Cambridge Placement Test is an online adaptive test of general English, testing Reading/Use of English and Listening. It can be used to place learners at all levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) from Pre-A1 to C2.

 

What is an adaptive test?

As the candidate progresses through the test, each item is chosen on the basis of the candidate's response to the previous item. As a result, the test becomes progressively easier or more difficult until a consistent level of ability is achieved, and the candidate's level of English can be identified.

 

How long does it take?

A maximum of 30 minutes.

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When is it available?

It’s on demand so can be taken at any time the customer chooses.

 

Is it secure?

The test must be invigilated and, as an adaptive test, candidates each get a 'unique' test, seeing different items and in a different order. The item bank is encrypted for security and new items are being added to the bank on a regular basis.

 

What does the result mean?

​Results are reported instantly as an overall score on a scale of 0-100, indicating the CEFR level from Pre-A1 – C2. Score CEFR level 90-100 C2 (Mastery) 75-89 C1 (Effective proficiency) 60-74 B2 (Vantage) 40-59 B1 (Threshold) 20-39 A2 (Waystage) 10-19 A1 (Breakthrough) 0-9 Pre-A1

If a result shows as *, what does this mean? It means that the candidate didn’t answer enough questions to obtain a score.

 

Can candidates see their result at the end of the test?

The customer can decide if the candidate can see and/or print their result at the end of the test.

 

What happens if there is an internet problem during the test?

The same token can be re-entered once the internet is back up and the test will resume from where the problem occurred.

 

Is the Cambridge Placement Test an international test?

Yes, the Cambridge Placement Test is an international test and this is reflected in the range of accents used in the Listening section and texts used in the Reading section, which are sourced from a range of English speaking countries.

 

Can I try the test?

Yes, a demo test is available. Click on 'Demo Placement Test' below and enter the token DEMCPTE1.