B1 is the English level that most people need to prove: to finish a degree, for a public exam, for a job or to go on Erasmus. The good news is that it is a very reachable goal if you know what the exam asks for and plan well. Here is everything you need to pass the B1 English exam.
What having a B1 in English means
According to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), B1 is the first independent user level. With a B1 you can:
- Understand the main points of clear texts and conversations about everyday topics.
- Handle most situations while travelling.
- Talk about your experiences, plans and interests in simple sentences.
- Give your opinion and briefly explain it.
Want to see how B1 fits with the other levels? We explain it in English levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2.
Why is B1 required?
- University: many Spanish universities require a certified language level to award your degree. The level depends on the university: some ask for B1, others, like the Universitat Politècnica de València, for B2. Always check your own university’s rules.
- Public exams and job pools: a language certificate often adds points.
- Work: more and more job offers ask for a minimum English level, and an official certificate proves it.
- Erasmus and exchanges: many programmes require a minimum level in the language of the country or the classes.
How long does it take to get a B1?
Cambridge English estimates around 350–400 guided learning hours to reach B1 from zero. If you already have an A2, it is around 200 more hours.
At 5 hours a week (for example two classes and three hours of practice at home), going from A2 to B1 takes about 40 weeks. With a more intensive pace you can do it in around six months. Planning to keep going? Read How long does it take to get a B2 in English?.
What the B1 exam looks like
The two most common B1 certificates are Cambridge B1 Preliminary (formerly PET) and LanguageCert B1. Both test all four skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Cambridge B1 Preliminary
| Paper | Duration | Parts | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 45 minutes | 6 | 25% |
| Writing | 45 minutes | 2 | 25% |
| Listening | about 30 minutes | 4 | 25% |
| Speaking | 10–12 minutes (in pairs) | 4 | 25% |
LanguageCert B1
The LanguageCert exam has a written part (listening, reading and writing) and an individual speaking part with an examiner. You can take both parts together or separately, and results are released about 10 working days after the exam. Not sure which one to choose? See LanguageCert or Cambridge: which English certificate is right for you?.
8 tips to pass B1 first time
- Start with a level test, so you know how far you really have to go.
- Choose your exam and date early and plan backwards.
- Learn the format. Knowing what each part asks for saves time and nerves.
- Do timed mock exams. Many students know the answers but run out of time.
- Write a lot and get corrections. Writing improves fast with feedback.
- Speak every week, even if you make mistakes. You don’t learn to speak by reading.
- Listen to English every day: podcasts, series, songs. Here are 7 easy ways to practise English every day.
- Review vocabulary by topic (travel, work, health, free time): these are typical B1 topics.
You don’t pass B1 by studying hard in the last week, but by practising a little every day.
Taking a Cambridge exam? You will also like How to prepare for your Cambridge exam: 7 tips that really work.
Prepare your B1 in Mislata
At Koyot Academy we prepare Cambridge and LanguageCert B1 in small groups, with real mock exams and morning, afternoon and evening timetables. Our teacher Zara specialises in exam preparation, and as an official LanguageCert test centre you can prepare and sit the exam at the same school. Starting from a lower level, or haven’t studied in years? Read Learning English as an adult: why it’s never too late.
Frequently asked questions
Is the B1 English exam difficult?
It is a demanding intermediate level, but very reachable with consistency. Most students who fail don’t lack the level; they don’t know the format or run out of time.
Which is better for B1, Cambridge or LanguageCert?
Both are internationally recognised. LanguageCert offers more flexible dates and lets you take the speaking part separately; Cambridge is very well known in education. The key is to check which certificates your university or employer accepts.
Does a B1 certificate expire?
Cambridge and LanguageCert certificates do not expire. Still, some employers or institutions may ask for a recent certificate, so it is worth checking.
Want to know what you need for B1? Come and see the school: your first trial class is free and without obligation.
