Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a Cambridge ICFE course?
A list of tuition providers offering courses towards the Cambridge ICFE exam can be found in the menu.
How much does it cost?
You will need to contact your nearest exam centre for the cost of the exam.
How can I register for Cambridge ICFE?
Candidates who wish to register should contact their nearest exam centre.
How long is the exam?
The exam consists of four papers: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. The duration of papers is as follows:
Test of Reading: 1 hour 15 mins
Test of Writing: 1 hour 15 mins
Test of Listening: 40 minutes (approximately)
Test of Speaking: 16 minutes (approximately)
How are the papers scheduled?
The Test of Reading, Test of Writing and Test of Listening papers are likely to be scheduled on the same day. The Test of Speaking will be offered over a longer period with exact dates decided locally by the authorised centre.
How are results reported?
Results are reported as three passing grades: C1 Pass with Merit; C1 Pass and B2 Pass, and two failing grades: Narrow Fail and Fail.
All candidates receive a statement of results indicating an overall estimate of their ability based on their performance on each of the four papers, thus ensuring that the different elements of the skills tested are contributing equally to the candidates’ competence. The statement of results includes a graphical profile indicating areas of comparative strength and/or weakness in the four language skills. Successful candidates also receive a certificate.
Who recognises the exam?
The certificates awarded to Cambridge ESOL candidates are recognised by thousands of educational organisations and employers throughout the world as reliable evidence of the level of English the learner has achieved. Cambridge ESOL and ACCA are working towards obtaining greater recognition for ICFE from professional accountancy bodies, educational organisations, private sector employers and governmental institutions.
Is there any training available for teachers?
At present there is no specialised training provided for teachers to prepare candidates for ICFE. We will, however, be including advice on ICFE candidate preparation in the Teaching Resources section of the Cambridge ESOL website.
Cambridge ESOL's internationally recognised Teaching Awards are taken by over 12,000 people each year. They provide a route into the English Language teaching profession for new teachers, and first class career development opportunities for experienced teachers. For more information on our Teaching Awards, visit: http://www.cambridgeesol.org/teaching/
What is the Common European Framework?
Developed by the Council of Europe, the Common European Framework (CEF) of Reference for Languages provides a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications. It facilitates a clear definition of teaching and learning objectives and methods, and provides the necessary tools for the assessment of proficiency. Taking an exam like Cambridge ICFE which is linked to the CEF will give successful candidates a qualification which will be recognised and understood in countries both within and outside Europe.
How can Cambridge ICFE test financial English without testing financial knowledge?
Cambridge ICFE tests English in a financial and accounting context, so, although background knowledge of this area of English language will impact to some degree on test performance, the exam is not a test of finance or accounting. Cambridge ICFE assesses candidates’ ability to understand spoken and written English in realistic, professional contexts that they are likely to encounter in their daily working lives.
