English · Cambridge English · CEFR B1

[ Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) – Digital exam ]

An internationally recognised certificate at CEFR level B1 – a solid proof for school, training and entering the workplace. You sit the exam on computer with us at the Cambridge Exam Centre in Frankfurt, with faster results and a speaking exam with an examiner.

View exam dates Cambridge test centre

At a glance

What is B1 Preliminary for?

The B1 Preliminary (PET) proves that you can confidently use English in everyday life, at school and in the workplace. The certificate is widely recognised and is valid for life – although individual institutions may require recent results.

Digital / computer-based – faster results
Speaking exam with an examiner (often in pairs)
Exam taken entirely on site at our test centre
Exam fee €187 – bookable directly at the bottom of the page (from 1 August 2026: €189)

View exam dates

Key information

ExamCambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) – digital / computer-based
LevelCEFR B1
Total durationapprox. 2 hr 15 min (incl. breaks)
Resultsusually within 10–14 days
Recognitionwidely recognised in school, training and work
Validitylifelong (institutions may require recent results)

Dates and registration

Current exam dates and online registration

Exam parts and duration

Four exam parts

Reading · approx. 45 min

Reading comprehension on everyday and work topics (multiple choice, matching, true/false).

Writing · approx. 45 min

Short writing tasks (email/letter, notes, a short text).

Listening · approx. 30 min

Everyday conversations, announcements and interviews in clear accents.

Speaking · approx. 12 min

Conversation with an examiner (often in pairs): a short presentation, dialogue and collaborative task.

Total duration approx. 2 hr 15 min – short breaks between the parts are possible.

Registration in 6 steps

How registration works

1Choose a date – pick a suitable date at the test centre below.

2Register online – complete the registration form in full.

3Pay the fee – €187 securely by credit card/bank transfer.

4Receive confirmation – all the details for the exam day by email.

5Exam day – arrive in good time with valid ID.

6Results – usually within 10–14 days by email.

ID: passport or identity card required on the exam day.
Punctuality: late participation is not possible.
Special arrangements: please contact us in good time before registering.
Rebookings/cancellations: the policies of Cambridge and ELOQUIA apply – note deadlines and fees.

Assessment

B1 Preliminary and the Cambridge English Scale

Preliminary is an exam at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Depending on the score achieved on the Cambridge English Scale, a certificate is issued at B2, B1 or A2:

160–170 (Grade A): certificate at level B2
140–159 (Grade B / Grade C): certificate at level B1
120–139: certificate at level A2
102–119: no result, no CEFR level, no certificate
Below 102: the score is not reported

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Is the digital B1 exam equivalent to the paper-based one?

Yes, content and assessment are identical. The only difference is the format (computer). Digital results are usually available sooner.

How quickly will I receive my results?

Usually within 10–14 days. We will inform you by email as soon as the results are available.

Will B1 Preliminary be recognised by my institution?

B1 Preliminary is widely recognised. Please check the specific requirements of the target institution (e.g. grade bands, validity period of the results).

Do I need a preparation course?

Recommended, to practise the exam format and strategies. ELOQUIA offers targeted preparation courses.

Straight to registration

You book the exam directly via the booking window below – choose a date, register, done.