The Reading paper consists of three sections and lasts for approximately 60 minutes. It consists of three long reading passages with texts ranging from descriptive and factual, to discursive and analytical. It includes non-verbal material such as diagrams, graphs and illustrations. Texts are authentic i.e. taken from actual books, journals and newspapers.

The Writing part of the exam takes approximately 60 minutes and consists of two tasks.

Writing Task One offers a choice of either ‘General’ or ‘Academic’ both require at least 150 words. The candidate must write a formal or informal letter, summarise, describe or explain a table, graph, chart or diagram.

Writing Task Two is an essay consisting of a minimum of 250 words. You will be presented with a topic and will be tested on your ability to respond by giving and justifying an opinion, discussing the topic, summarising details, outlining problems, identifying possible solutions and supporting what you write with reasons, arguments and relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

The Speaking section of the exam consists of a three-part interview, which lasts approximately 15 minutes. In Part One, students will be asked general questions about themselves. Students will also be expected to speak at length about a familiar topic followed by a structured discussion.

The Listening section lasts approximately 30 minutes. The tasks consist of four recorded monologues and conversations with supporting questions. The students will be given an extra 10 minutes to transfer their answers on to an answer sheet.