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.
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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.

SectionFormatApprox. duration
Listening39 multiple-choice, audio (one listen only)~35 min
Reading39 multiple-choice60 min
Writing3 writing tasks60 min
Speaking3 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.