Cambridge Exams

Fact File

The Cambridge Exams take place three times a year in March, June and December. Hampstead School of English offers closed exam classes for PET, FCE, CAE and CPE:

Course Description

The Cambridge Exam classes prepare you thoroughly for every aspect of the exam. During the course you will work on language development and exam strategy for all five parts of the exam:

• Speaking
• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Use of English/English in Use

Before Starting the Course

We ask that all students wishing to study in the Cambridge exam classes take a mock exam before starting.  This is a smaller version of a complete exam, and it gives you and your teachers clear indications of your strengths and weaknesses before starting the course.  In some situations, if a student is not sure whether to take FCE or CAE, for example, the mock exam will help to make the decision.  The mock exam is available from your teacher, if you are already studying at Hampstead School, or by email if you have not yet arrived.

Course Materials

All students in exam classes are required to buy the set course book and students studying in the 4 week intensive courses are required to buy the appropriate exam practice book.  The course books can be bought from Reception for £20 and the exam practice books for £11.   You will receive information about which book to buy from your teacher on the first day of your course.

Taking the Exam

Hampstead School of English is a Test Centre for PET, FCE and CAE, so students can book and pay for the exam at Reception and arrangements for the exam are made by the school.  This means that when you take the exam, you are in a familiar environment and will receive support from your teacher, classmates and all Hampstead School staff.  All information about taking the exam will be provided for you by your teacher and the Director of Studies.