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C1 Advanced, formerly known as the Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE), is the leading qualification for high level achievement in English. It demonstrates that you have the language skills required by professional business people or undergraduate university students to succeed in demanding academic and professional environments. As a premium provider in Romania, we offer the support you need to achieve your C1 Advanced results.

What is the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam?

The C1 Advanced is an in depth, high level qualification that shows you have the language skills that employers and universities are looking for. It is set at Level C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Recognition in Romania: This exam is an essential asset for students. It is recognized as a linguistic competency for those in bilingual and intensive classes and can be used to equate the English exam within the Romanian Baccalaureate if passed with a score between 180 and 210 points.

What skills will you develop?

Preparing for the C1 Advanced means reaching a standard of English that allows you to function at a high level in almost any context. By following the preparation path, you will develop the ability to:

  • Communicate with confidence: Express yourself fluently and spontaneously in professional meetings or academic seminars.
  • Produce high level writing: Write complex reports, emails, and take detailed notes during lectures or business presentations.
  • Analyze sophisticated texts: Understand a wide variety of challenging materials, from contemporary fiction to detailed newspaper opinion pieces.
  • Navigate professional life: Master the advanced grammar and vocabulary required to work effectively in an international business or a high level academic environment.

C1 Advanced exam format and duration

The C1 Advanced exam structure is designed to evaluate your ability across four distinct papers. At the British Council, we offer the C1 Advanced in both paper based and digital formats. We recommend the Digital format for candidates who value efficiency, as it offers a modern interface and faster results available in just two weeks. Check C1 current pricing, specific dates and more.

The Reading, Writing, and Listening papers are typically completed on the same day. To ensure a professional and natural assessment, the Speaking exam is conducted face to face with two examiners and one other candidate.

Paper Time allowed Marks (% of total) Focus
Reading and Use of English 1 hr 30 min 40% Evaluating grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills.
Writing 1 hr 30 min 20% Creating two different pieces of high level writing.
Listening 40 min  20% Understanding complex spoken materials.
Speaking 15 min per pair 20% Fluency and interaction in professional scenarios.

C1 Advanced preparation

Booking your C1 Advanced exam with the British Council ensures you have the elite support required for high level academic and professional success. We provide a premium suite of resources to help you achieve your best results:

  • Exam Preparation Online Support: Maximise your C1 Advanced preparation with exclusive access to our free online support platform. Use your unique activation code to access practice tests and revision tools designed for the C1 level.
  • Official Sample Papers: Familiarise yourself with the exam format and technical requirements using our official C1 Advanced past papers and sample materials.
  • Preparation Courses: Refine your skills with our specialised programmes for adults and professionals in Romania, focusing on the nuances of advanced English.
  • Expert Environment: Our venues are selected for their high standards of security and comfort, providing the professional atmosphere necessary for maximum focus during your C1 exam.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cambridge C1 Advanced

To equate your English Baccalaureate in Romania, you must achieve a score between 180 and 210 points. Your certificate will display your score on the Cambridge English Scale for each of the four skills.

The C1 Advanced proves you are at a professional level (C1), while C2 Proficiency [Link to C2 exam page] shows you have mastered English to an exceptional level similar to a native speaker. Many universities accept C1 Advanced as sufficient proof of English for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

No. To maintain the high standards of security and integrity required by global institutions, the exam must be taken at a British Council partner venue.