Cambridge certificate and secondary school entrance exams - extra points?
Has your child obtained a Cambridge English certificate and are they facing secondary school entrance exams? Many parents wonder if this certificate provides an advantage and earns extra points in the admission process. The answer is: "sometimes yes", if you choose a school that accepts it. In this article, you will learn when a Cambridge certificate helps with entrance exams, how schools award bonus points, and why it is worth obtaining one anyway.
Some bilingual gymnasiums or secondary schools with extended English language teaching award bonus points for obtaining a Cambridge certificate during the admission process, or may exempt the student from the English language entrance exam entirely.
What is a Cambridge certificate and what levels exist?
A Cambridge certificate is an internationally recognised proof of English language proficiency, which a child obtains after successfully passing an exam organised by the University of Cambridge. International House Bratislava is an accredited open exam centre for these certificates.
The following levels are relevant for secondary school:
A2 Key (KET)
Basic English level. The child understands simple sentences, can introduce themselves, ask for directions, or order food.
B1 Preliminary (PET)
Intermediate level. The child can communicate in common situations, understands simple texts, and can lead a conversation about hobbies, school, or travel.
B2 First (FCE)
Upper-intermediate level. The student communicates fluently, can argue a point, read more complex texts, and write essays. B2 is often a requirement for study or work abroad.
Can a Cambridge certificate increase the chance of admission to secondary school?
Not every school takes the certificate into account, but many bilingual gymnasiums and language classes recognise it for points or exempt children from part of the English entrance exam.
In practice, this can mean the following advantages:
- bonus points added to the entrance exam results,
- priority admission in the event of a tie-break with another candidate,
- an advantage when being placed into an advanced language group from the 1st year.
Which schools recognise the Cambridge certificate?
Every institution has its own rules. Most gymnasiums focus primarily on Testovanie 9 results and entrance exams in the Slovak language and mathematics. However, bilingual and language schools often offer +5 to +10 extra points or other benefits.
Obtaining a Cambridge certificate is therefore not only an investment in a child's skills but also a real strategic advantage during the admission process for their dream school.
Which level of the Cambridge exam should I choose for entrance exams?
The choice depends on age and current knowledge. For students in the 8th and 9th years of primary school, the following three levels are most relevant:
- A2 Key – suitable for students who encounter English primarily at school. The certificate confirms basic communication skills.
- B1 Preliminary – the most common choice for students attending language courses. Most schools that award bonus points recognise this specific level.
- B2 First – for language-gifted students applying to bilingual gymnasiums. This is a long-term investment, as B2 is also required for universities abroad.
If you are unsure which level is right for your child, take our free online test for teenagers.
How does preparation for the Cambridge exam in Bratislava work?
At International House Bratislava, we offer Cambridge exam preparation courses and specially designed English courses for children and teenagers. Preparation lasts one academic year (September – June) and includes:
- lessons led by qualified instructors,
- practice tests and simulations of the real exam,
- individual feedback on both written and oral performance,
- access to official Cambridge materials.
Cambridge exams take place several times a year. We recommend planning the exam so that the child has the certificate by March at the latest – before the deadline for secondary school applications.
Why is a Cambridge certificate worth it even without bonus points?
Even if a school does not award extra points, the certificate brings lasting benefits to the child:
- International recognition – the certificate is accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide, including employers and governments.
- Motivation and confidence – successfully passing the exam gives the child a measurable goal and a sense of achievement.
- Better preparedness – course graduates have significantly better language skills than their peers, which is reflected in their school grades.
- A foundation for the future – A2 or B1 levels are stepping stones to higher certificates (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency).
If your child is not yet attending an English course for children, now is the right time to start.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How many extra points does a Cambridge certificate give for entrance exams?
It depends on the specific school. Bilingual gymnasiums typically award +5 to +10 points for level B1 and higher.
Which schools in Bratislava recognise the Cambridge certificate?
Each school publishes its own criteria. We recommend checking the website of the specific school or contacting their admissions office.
What level of Cambridge exam does a 9th-year student need?
For entrance exams to standard gymnasiums, A2 Key or B1 Preliminary is usually sufficient. For bilingual study, B2 First is recommended.
When is the best time to start preparation?
Ideally 6 – 12 months before the exam. If you want to use the certificate for entrance exams, start preparation in September of the ninth year at the latest.
When will I receive the certificate?
- Digital exams: approximately 3 – 4 weeks after the exam date.
- Paper-based exams: approximately 7 – 10 weeks after the exam date.
Is the Cambridge certificate valid indefinitely?
Yes, the certificate does not have an expiry date. However, some schools may require it to be no older than 2 – 3 years.
