Upcoming Dates for December 2023
| Exam | Paper-based | Computer-based |
| C1 Advanced (CAE) | 9, 16 December | 1, 13 December |
If you wish to show your advanced English language skills, the CAE exam is for you. The CAE exam assesses and certifies advanced-level English language proficiency for academic and professional purposes.
The CAE exam dates are available throughout the year.
Cambridge English Exams are conducted at an approved examination centre, your school, an authorized venue, or an external location. This includes the in-person Speaking exam.
The assessments include the Listening, Reading, and Use of English components and the Writing exam. You can choose your preferred mode of taking the exams: digitally on a computer or traditionally using pen, pencil, and paper.
CAE Exam results for computer-based (CB) exams usually are available 2-3 weeks after the test date. For paper-based exams (PB), results are generally available 4-6 weeks after the test date.
CAE Exam Dates for 2023
Cambridge English Exams offer more choice and flexibility than ever. You can take your CAE Exam on paper or a computer, depending on what works best for you.
The upcoming dates are mentioned below, but it would be best to contact your nearest exam centre to check the available dates in your area.
Paper-based exam dates for 2023
The CAE Paper-based exam dates for 2023 are as follows:
| Month | Date |
| December | 9,16 |
Computer-based exam dates for 2023
The CAE Computer-based exam dates for 2023 are as follows:
| Month | Date |
| December | 1, 13 |
CAE Exam Dates for 2024
The CAE Paper-based exam dates for 2024 are as follows:
| Month | Date |
| January | 13 |
| February | 3, 21 |
| March | 9, 16 |
The CAE Computer-based exam dates for 2024 are as follows:
| Month | Date |
| January | 20 |
| February | 24 |
| March | 8 |
Here are a few steps to register for the Cambridge English Exam:
- Find an exam centre – offered by around 15 centres in India.
- Go to https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/in/find-a-centre/ and find a centre near you.
- Contact your exam centre. They will tell you how to register for your exam and the cost.
- Choose when and how (CBT or PBT) you take your exam.
You should ideally register for your CAE exam as per the below timeline:
| Exam Type | Registration |
| Paper-based | 4 weeks before |
| Computer-based | 5 days before |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which exam format should I select for CAE?
A. The offerings of your local exam centre and your personal comfort should influence your choice. While a computer-based exam holds numerous advantages, with the majority of candidates recommending this approach, if you lean towards handwritten tasks, a paper-based test might suit you better. Nonetheless, if you possess proficiency in keyboard typing and computer usage, opting for the computer-based test is advisable.
Q. What disparities exist between CAE computer-based and paper-based exams?
A. The structure of the exam remains consistent—question types, order, and time allocations stay the same. The primary contrast lies in the experience of exam day and the manner in which you undertake the test. One entails employing a computer screen, keyboard, and mouse, while the other relies on traditional tools like paper, pen, and pencil.
Q. Which alternative is simpler—paper-based or computer-based for the CAE exam?
A. Given that the tests are identical in content, neither is inherently simpler or more challenging. Nevertheless, certain candidates feel more at ease with the computer-based exam due to the ability to use headphones for the listening section, conveniently revise their written work, monitor their word count, and employ features like highlighting and annotating within the reading section. Additionally, a timer provides visibility into the time remaining for each segment.
Frequently asked questions
Q. How often is the CAE exam administered each year?
The CAE Exam is administered throughout the year, allowing you to select an exam date that suits your preferences and schedule.
Whether you're a student looking to enhance your academic prospects, a professional aiming to open up career opportunities, or an individual seeking personal growth in English language proficiency, the CAE exam's year-round availability helps you customize your preparation and testing experience as per your convenience.
Q. When should I register for the CAE exam?
To ensure a smooth registration process and secure your preferred exam date, it's recommended to check the registration deadlines provided by your chosen exam centre.
Aim to register for your CAE Exam as per the below timeline:
| Exam Type | Registration |
| Paper-based | 4 weeks before the test date |
| Computer-based | 5 days before the test date |
Q. How early should I book my CAE exam date?
To initiate your registration for the Cambridge English Exam, you can follow these steps:
- Find an Exam Center: There are approximately 40 centres in India where the exam is offered. You can locate a centre near you by visiting https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/in/find-a-centre/.
- Contact the Exam Center: Once you identify a suitable centre, contact them. They will guide you through the registration process, provide information about the registration requirements, and explain the associated costs.
- Choose Exam Format and Date: During registration, you'll have the opportunity to choose your preferred exam format, whether computer-based (CBT) or paper-based (PBT), and select a date that aligns with your availability and preparation timeline.
Q. Which country's exam is CAE?
The CAE exam is conducted by Cambridge ESOL, a department of the University of Cambridge. It is recognized and accepted globally by universities, colleges, and institutions as a proof of advanced English language proficiency. Notably, CAE is widely accepted by universities and colleges in the UK, making it a popular choice for students seeking admission to educational institutions in the UK.
Q. What is the minimum score for the CAE exam?
Scores on the CAE exam range from 160 to 210. To pass the exam and attain the Cambridge C1 Advanced certificate, a score of 180 or above is required. This score corresponds to a level C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), indicating a high English proficiency level.
Q. Is CAE better than IELTS?
CAE and IELTS grading scales are different, making direct comparisons challenging. Achieving a passing grade in CAE is often equated to achieving a score of around 7.0-7.5 in IELTS. Both exams assess advanced English proficiency, and the choice between them depends on personal preferences and the specific requirements of institutions or employers.
Q. Is there any age limit for the CAE exam?
There is no formal age limit for taking the C1 Advanced Exam. While some individuals in secondary school (10+1 or 10+2) take the CAE exam as part of their preparation for college applications in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, the exam is suitable for individuals of various age groups who seek to demonstrate their advanced English language skills for academic or professional purposes.
Q. Who should take the CAE exam?
The CAE exam is ideal for you if you have a high level of English proficiency and wish to showcase your advanced language skills. It is particularly beneficial for you if you prepare for university studies in English-speaking countries or seek job opportunities requiring strong English language proficiency.
Q. How long is the CAE exam?
The CAE exam consists of four sections and typically takes approximately 235 minutes to complete. The breakdown of time allocation for each section is as follows:
- Reading and Use of English: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Writing: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Listening: Approximately 40 minutes
- Speaking: Approximately 15 minutes per candidate
Q. How often is the CAE exam offered?
Cambridge offers the CAE exam multiple times yearly. The frequency of exam sessions may vary based on location and demand. To know up-to-date information about exam dates and registration, it is advisable to consult your local exam centre or visit the official Cambridge Assessment English website.
Q. How long is the CAE certificate valid?
The CAE certificate does not have a specified expiration date. Once obtained, it signifies your advanced English language proficiency during the exam and remains valid indefinitely. However, some institutions or employers might have specific requirements regarding the currency of the certificate. Therefore, checking directly with the relevant entities is recommended to ensure compliance with their policies.
Q. Where is CAE accepted?
The recognition and acceptance of Cambridge credentials are widespread. If you earn Cambridge qualifications, you gain admission to esteemed universities worldwide, including US, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, and beyond institutions. Noteworthy institutions such as MIT, Harvard, and Cambridge value and accept Cambridge qualifications as proof of language proficiency.