Before you leave: what to bring
- A valid photo ID — the same one used at registration. Without it you cannot sit the exam.
- Your registration confirmation (printed or on mobile, depending on the centre).
- Arrive early (about 30 minutes) for check-in, ID verification and seating.
Check your centre's instructions: accepted IDs, exact arrival time and allowed items may vary. Confirm these the day before on your confirmation.
The 4 sections walkthrough
Listening, Reading and Writing usually take place in the same half-day. Speaking is in a dedicated slot, face to face with an examiner.
| Section | Format | Approx. duration |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 39 multiple-choice, audio (one listen only) | ~35 min |
| Reading | 39 multiple-choice | 60 min |
| Writing | 3 writing tasks | 60 min |
| Speaking | 3 tasks, face to face with an examiner | ~12 min |
For Listening, each audio plays only once: practise under this constraint before exam day.
What's allowed (and not)
- Allowed: something to write with (depending on the centre), your ID.
- Not allowed: phone switched on, personal notes, dictionary, any connected device. Your phone must be off and stored away.
Tips to stay calm on exam day
- Sleep well the night before and eat before leaving: the sections require focus.
- Manage time: don't get stuck on a hard question — skip and come back.
- For speaking: breathe, structure your answers (idea → reason → example), and develop your points.
- Do full mock exams beforehand so the pace doesn't surprise you.
The key: stress drops when the format holds no surprises. Practise under real, timed conditions before the exam.