Cambridge English Certificate: Questions and Answers
Do you want to obtain an English certificate that can open the door to better job opportunities or studying abroad? Cambridge certificates are among the most recognized certified exams in the world – and you can take them right here in Bratislava.Register for a Cambridge exam
Choose a date and reserve your place online.
Register for the exam
What is an English language certificate?
Why should I get an English language certificate?
An English language certificate is an official confirmation of your English level, recognized by employers and universities worldwide.
- If you want to improve your career opportunities in Bratislava or abroad, it is one of the best investments you can make.
International recognition
A Cambridge certificate:
- is recognized by companies and schools globally
- has no expiration date
- is a reliable proof of your skills
That is why thousands of students choose it every year, including in Slovakia.
What certified exams are available?
The most popular are Cambridge English exams, which you can take in Bratislava at the accredited centre International House Bratislava.
Exam levels:
A2 Key (KET) – basic level
B1 Preliminary (PET) – lower intermediate
B2 First (FCE) – intermediate
C1 Advanced (CAE) – advanced
C2 Proficiency (CPE) – very advanced
Not sure which level to choose? Test yourself.
Exam levels:
A2 Key (KET) – basic level
B1 Preliminary (PET) – lower intermediate
B2 First (FCE) – intermediate
C1 Advanced (CAE) – advanced
C2 Proficiency (CPE) – very advanced
Not sure which level to choose? Test yourself.
How long is an English certificate valid?
- Cambridge certificates are valid for life
This means:
- you do not need to retake the exam
- you can use it for a lifetime
Unlike other certificates (e.g. IELTS), which have limited validity.
How do I go from registration to obtaining an English certificate?
You can find a detailed step-by-step guide on the page
How to get a Cambridge certificate
How does the Cambridge English exam work?
What to expect in the English exam
Each English exam has a clearly defined structure.
Exam parts
Exam parts
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
The exam consists of both written and speaking parts, which may take place on different days.
Different exam levels have different formats.
See details here:
A2 Key (KET) – basic level
B1 Preliminary (PET) – lower intermediate
B2 First (FCE) – intermediate
C1 Advanced (CAE) – advanced
C2 Proficiency (CPE) – very advanced
Different exam levels have different formats.
See details here:
A2 Key (KET) – basic level
B1 Preliminary (PET) – lower intermediate
B2 First (FCE) – intermediate
C1 Advanced (CAE) – advanced
C2 Proficiency (CPE) – very advanced
How much does an English certificate cost?
The price of an English certificate in Bratislava depends on the level and type of exam (paper vs digital).
You can find prices with the exam dates:
A2 Key
B1 Preliminary
B2 First
C1 Advanced
C2 Proficiency
The investment in a certificate can quickly pay off in the form of a better salary or job opportunities.
You can find prices with the exam dates:
A2 Key
B1 Preliminary
B2 First
C1 Advanced
C2 Proficiency
The investment in a certificate can quickly pay off in the form of a better salary or job opportunities.
What is the difference between paper-based and digital exams?
Paper-based:
- traditional format (paper and pencil/pen)
- results in 4–6 weeks
- certificate in 7–10 weeks
Digital:
- faster results (5–10 days)
- more convenient for people used to computers
- certificate in 3–4 weeks
The exam content is the same – only the format differs.
How to prepare for a Cambridge English certificate?
If you want to pass the exam on your first attempt, proper preparation is key.
Tips for success
Tips for success
- practice the specific Cambridge exam format
- work with sample tests
- improve your speaking (often underestimated)
- set a regular study plan
Courses vs. self-study
Language courses in Bratislava:
- guided by experienced teachers
- exam simulations
- individual feedback
Self-study:
- more affordable
- flexible
- but less effective without guidance
- Free online learning activities - Cambridge
The best results are achieved by students who take a preparation course at a language school.
Exam preparation
Until when can I register for the exam?
You can register for the exam until the registration deadline listed for each exam date. The exam fee must be paid by that deadline.
Can I register after the deadline?
Yes, in some cases late registration is possible if there are still places available. This type of registration is time-limited and subject to an additional fee. Simply fill in the registration form and we will contact you. If the exam is fully booked, we will offer you the next available date.
When will I receive exam information?
Exam instructions (Confirmation of Entry, timetable, and venue) will be sent approximately 1 week before the written exam date.
What should I bring to the Cambridge exam?
Please bring the following to the exam:
- a valid ID card or passport
- a pencil, pen, and eraser
- water in a transparent bottle
- snacks
Mobile devices, electronics, and English books are not allowed during the exam. They will be collected before the exam.
Choose clothing without English text, as it is against Cambridge regulations.
Choose clothing without English text, as it is against Cambridge regulations.
Do I need an ID card or passport?
Yes – a valid identification document is required. Without it, you will not be allowed to take the exam.
- ID card or
- passport
What happens if I arrive late?
If you are late, you may not be admitted to the exam. You should arrive 30 minutes before the exam starts. If you are late, please contact us by phone immediately.
Are mobile phones allowed during the exam?
No. All electronic devices must be handed in before the exam. Using them, even during breaks, may result in disqualification.
When will the results be published?
- Digital exams: approximately 5–10 days
- Paper-based exams: approximately 4–6 weeks
You can view your results online via the Results Service.
How do I access my results?
You can find your results online on the Results Service website.
If you have already taken a Cambridge exam in the past, use the same account.
If this is your first time, you need to create an account following the instructions:
If you have already taken a Cambridge exam in the past, use the same account.
If this is your first time, you need to create an account following the instructions:
- Register: click Register and fill in the form using your “ID Number” and “Secret Number” from the Confirmation of Entry. Create a password.
- Log in: use your “ID Number” and password in the Login section.
How long does it take to receive a Cambridge certificate?
Estimated time to receive your Cambridge certificate:
- Digital exams: approx. 3–4 weeks after the exam date
- Paper-based exams: approx. 7–10 weeks after the exam date
Conclusion: Getting a Cambridge certificate in Bratislava is worth it
If you want to take your English to the next level, an English certificate is the right choice.
- international recognition
- better job opportunities
- long-term value with no expiration
If you are in Bratislava, the ideal step is to enrol in a
preparation course
and then take the exam at the accredited IH Bratislava centre.
exam dates