what is a BEC?

The Business English Certificates (BEC) are a series of English language proficiency exams offered by Cambridge Assessment English. These exams are specifically designed to assess language skills in a business context. There are three levels of BEC:

BEC Preliminary (B1 Level):

   – This is the entry-level exam and is suitable for individuals with an intermediate level of English. It assesses basic language skills needed in a professional environment, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Level of qualification: Intermediate = B1 on the Common European Framework

Who should take this exam?

You should take this exam if you want to improve your English for your career. Studying for the BEC Preliminary will give you a good foundation in the English skills you will need to work in international business contexts.

To take the exam you should be able to:

  • follow short telephone conversations or general business discussions
  • discuss practical business tasks such as ordering or answering general enquiries
  • write brief factual business letters or emails.

 

BEC Vantage (B2 Level):

   – BEC Vantage is an intermediate to upper-intermediate level exam. It evaluates a higher level of English proficiency and includes tasks related to business-related topics such as presentations, negotiations, and correspondence.

Level of qualification: Upper Intermediate = B2 on the Common European Framework

Who should take this exam?

You should take this exam if you want to prove to employers that your English is good enough for you to work in an English-speaking business environment. Studying for the BEC Vantage will develop your confidence and the English skills you need to succeed in international business contexts.

To take the exam you should be able to:

  • understand the meaning of business reports and letters
  • express your opinion or discuss factual issues
  • give a short prepared presentation, and write a brief proposal.

 

 BEC Higher (C1 Level):

   – BEC Higher is an advanced-level exam designed for individuals with a high level of English proficiency. It assesses the ability to use English effectively in complex business situations, including making presentations, negotiating, and participating in meetings.

Each level of BEC covers a range of business-related topics and scenarios, and the exams are structured to reflect real-life business communication. The skills assessed include reading and writing business texts, understanding spoken and written English in a business context, and demonstrating effective oral communication.

Achieving a BEC certification can be valuable for individuals seeking to enhance their English language skills for professional purposes, especially in international business environments. The exams are widely recognized by employers, educational institutions, and organizations around the world.

 

Level of qualification: Advanced = C1 on the Common European Framework

Who should take this exam?

You should take this exam if you want to develop professional English business skills. The BEC Higher qualification proves to employers that you can be effective in a demanding English-speaking business environment. To take the exam you should be able to:

  • take an active part in business meetings, expressing your opinions and arguing your point of view
  • understand most business reports and correspondence
  • write detailed business proposals and letters.