What is the C2 Proficiency?
C2 Proficiency, also known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), is the highest level English qualification you can achieve. It shows you have mastered English to an exceptional degree and proves you can communicate with the fluency and sophistication of a highly competent English speaker. It is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference.
At C2, you should be able to:
- understand documents, correspondence and reports, including the finer points of complex texts
- write letters on any subject and full notes of meetings or seminars with good expression and accuracy
- advise on, talk about or discuss complex or sensitive issues, understand colloquial references and deal confidently with hostile questions
- use and understand formal, academic and colloquial language
Alberto talks about how C2 Proficiency helped his professional career
Is C2 Proficiency for me?
C2 Proficiency means you have the level of English that’s needed to study or work in a very senior professional or academic environment, for example on a postgraduate or PhD programme. As a near native level of English, although all the technical aspects of language use are also important, the degree of sophistication and nuance mastered also plays an important role.
Achieving a qualification at this level is the ultimate proof that you have mastered English to an exceptional level.
Are not sure if this exam is for you? Test current English level.
What is the structure of the exam?
There are four papers, but five parts:
Reading and Use of English
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Content: 7 parts with 53 questions
- Percentage of total marks: 40%
- Purpose: Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction and non-fiction books, journals, newspapers and manuals.
Writing
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Content: 2 parts
- Percentage of total marks: 20%
- Purpose: Requires you to be able to write a variety of text types, such as essays, reports and reviews.
Listening
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Content: 4 parts with 30 questions
- Percentage of total marks: 20%
- Purpose: Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as lectures, speeches and interviews.
Speaking
- Duration: 16 minutes per pair of candidates (24 minutes per group of three)
- Content: 3 parts
- Percentage of total marks: 20%
- Purpose: Shows how good your spoken English is as you take part in a conversation by asking/answering questions and discussing topics. Your Speaking test will be face-to-face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. One of the examiners talks to you and the other examiner listens. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable.
This last part is done with two examiners and another candidate.
Depending on the date and format you choose it may be on a computer or on paper.
Preparation material
Feel free to browse our range of official preparation materials and also the Cambridge English free resources and samples.
More information
Computer Vs Paper. What’s the difference?
Computer based testing
C2 Proficiency | Cambridge English