Get the top BEC tutoring services

The BEC exam, or Business English Certificate, is an international English language qualification that assesses proficiency in English within a business context. The BEC exam is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to use English in professional and business environments. It is suitable for a wide range of professionals in management, finance, marketing, and other business-related fields.

The BEC exam is typically offered at three levels: BEC Preliminary (B1), BEC Vantage (B2), and BEC Higher (C1). Each level corresponds to a different level of language proficiency. The BEC exam is scored on a scale from A to C, with C being the highest level of achievement. A passing grade is typically a Grade C or higher.

The Business English Certificate (BEC) exam consists of four key components. The Reading component assesses the candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written business English. It typically includes a variety of texts such as articles, reports, emails, and advertisements. Candidates may be asked to answer multiple-choice questions, match headings to paragraphs, or fill in gaps in a text.
The Writing component evaluates the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in written business English. It often includes tasks such as writing emails, reports, proposals, or essays. The focus is on clarity and the correct use of business-related vocabulary. The Listening component assesses the candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in business. Candidates listen to recordings of workplace interactions, meetings, presentations, or interviews. Tasks may include multiple-choice questions, completing tables or forms, or summarizing information. The Speaking component involves a face-to-face interview with an examiner. It assesses the candidate’s ability to communicate orally in business-related situations. The Speaking test typically includes tasks such as introducing oneself, discussing business topics, and responding to questions or scenarios. It aims to evaluate fluency, accuracy, and effective communication skills.

The Speaking test is typically divided into four parts:
1. Introduction and Interview (Part 1): In this part, the examiner introduces themselves and checks the candidate’s identification. The examiner then initiates a brief conversation with the candidate, asking about familiar topics such as work, studies, or personal interests. The goal is to assess the candidate’s ability to engage in a simple conversation and provide personal information.
2. Long Turn (Part 2): In this part, the candidate is given a task card with a prompt and is asked to speak about a specified business-related topic for about one minute. The candidate has some preparation time, usually one minute, to make notes before delivering their response. This part assesses the candidate’s ability to clearly present information on a given topic.
3. Collaborative Task (Part 3): This part involves a collaborative task between the candidate and the examiner. The task typically requires the candidate to interact with the examiner, discussing a business-related issue or scenario presented on a task card. The candidate and the examiner discuss ideas and opinions. This part assesses the candidate’s ability to engage in interactive communication.
4. Discussion (Part 4): This part is a more in-depth discussion of the topic in Part 2. The examiner asks the candidate further questions, exploring the topic in more detail. This part assesses the candidate’s ability to express opinions, justify viewpoints, and engage in a more extended conversation on business-related subjects.

BEC certification does not have an expiration date. Once obtained, it is a lifelong qualification. Candidates are generally allowed to retake the BEC exam if they do not achieve a passing grade. There is usually no limit to the number of times the exam can be taken.