Understanding Cambridge English Exams: Certificate Validity, Pros, and Cons

Cambridge English Qualifications are thorough exams designed to assess your English proficiency. These exams evaluate different levels of English skills and are known worldwide for their high standards.

However, before committing to a test, it's important to understand the pros and cons of taking a Cambridge English exam in Singapore. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Cambridge English Qualifications, including exam preparation and certificate validity, you can make a more informed decision about whether these exams meet your specific requirements. Read on to find out if the ​​Cambridge English Qualifications are right for you.

Developed by the globally recognised​​ ​​University of Cambridge, the Cambridge English tests offer numerous advantages, such as:

Detailed skill assessment

Cambridge English Tests are structured to assess detailed proficiency in English across different levels. There are various tests, such as the B1 Preliminary (PET) and C1 Advanced (CAE), with different requirements and difficulties designed to fulfil different requirements. This can be ideal for a student seeking further education, a worker applying for a job, or someone submitting a visa application. 

The Cambridge exam format also evaluates various skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This comprehensive assessment ensures that candidates have a well-rounded proficiency in English, making them better prepared for academic and professional communication.

Lifelong validity of certain exams

Certain Cambridge exams have lifelong validity. This lifelong certification is particularly beneficial for individuals who need a permanent record of their English proficiency for academic or professional purposes, eliminating the need for retesting. However, it is important to note that certain institutions may only accept certificates taken within the last 2 or 3 years.

While the Cambridge English Tests offer many benefits, they also have drawbacks. It’s important to be aware of these before committing to the test:

Specific nature of each test

Each Cambridge test caters to a different level and purpose, as each qualification targets a particular level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This means that there are different tests for various needs, and a candidate may need to take multiple tests for verification purposes. ​

For example, if a candidate has already achieved the C2 Proficiency qualification and they are looking for a job in business, they may need to take the Cambridge English Business Certificates (BEC) suite of exams. This can be time-consuming and costly for candidates requiring various levels of certifications. Additionally, this makes the preparation for the exams more intensive, as candidates must study for multiple specific tests to meet different requirements.

Limited practical application

Compared to other English proficiency tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Cambridge tests have limitations in practical applicability. This is mainly because the Cambridge exams are highly academic and may not focus on practical language skills needed in professional or everyday settings. This can affect test-takers who need a more versatile assessment for everyday use and professional interactions.

Limited recognition in local context

In Singapore, institutions and employers often prefer qualifications like IELTS or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) over Cambridge tests due to their broader recognition of international opportunities. Additionally, Cambridge exams might not be recognised for immigration purposes or certain professional certifications in Singapore. 

Cost and availability of test centres in Singapore

The cost of taking Cambridge exams in Singapore can be higher than that of other English proficiency tests. For example, the total estimated fee for the Cambridge test ranges from S$950 to S$1250, while IELTS only costs between S$275 to S$398. 

Additionally, there is a limited availability of test centres for Cambridge exams, which could pose convenience issues for test-takers in Singapore. Currently, there are only three centres in Singapore and does not offer the full range of all the different tests, which could be inconvenient for some.

Limited preparation resources

In general, there is a scarcity of localised preparation resources and online courses tailored specifically for Cambridge English tests in Singapore, especially compared to IELTS. This lack of resources can be a disadvantage for test-takers who need extensive preparation to perform well.

Furthermore, without adequate preparation for the Cambridge English exams, it can be more difficult to achieve a satisfactory score, increasing the likelihood of having to retake the test, which can be both time-consuming and costly.

If you are considering taking any Cambridge English test, evaluating other tests like the IELTS is important as it helps you choose the best option for your specific needs and goals. Here's a comparison to help you understand the key differences and make the right decision for your future success:

Universal vs. specific acceptance

Cambridge exams are accepted primarily for academic purposes, often requiring multiple tests for different levels or purposes. In contrast, the IELTS is widely recognised for higher education, professional licensing, and immigration globally, usually requiring just one comprehensive test. 

Today, the IELTS is accepted by over 12,000 organisations in more than 150 countries, including government and immigration authorities, educational institutions, multinational companies and other professional and industry associations. This broad acceptance makes it a versatile and valuable credential for a wide range of opportunities.

Availability of preparation resources

Preparation is essential for scoring well on any English proficiency test. For Cambridge exams, there are fewer mock tests and specialised preparation materials, such as Cambridge English online courses, available compared to IELTS.

However, for IELTS, there are abundant practice materials, such as online IELTS preparation courses and free online IELTS sample tests. This can help candidates better prepare for the exam and lessen the likelihood of needing to retake the test.

Test frequency and purpose

Cambridge tests may require multiple exams to meet various certification requirements, each targeting different proficiency levels because the Cambridge exams are designed to develop candidates’ language skills and improve their English step by step. 

In contrast, IELTS requires just one test to cover most academic, professional, and migration needs, reducing the need for repeated testing. This not only saves costs and time but also reduces the stress of studying and preparing for multiple exams.

Relevance to practical language skills

Cambridge tests are highly academic and less focused on the day-to-day language skills needed in professional and casual settings in Singapore. This is because each of the qualifications focuses on a specific level of the CEFR.

On the other hand, the IELTS is designed to assess practical English skills that are directly applicable to professional environments and everyday interactions in Singapore. This practical focus significantly benefits test-takers needing versatile language proficiency for real-world situations.

Choosing the right English proficiency test can unlock new opportunities while saving time, money, and stress. If you want to learn more about Cambridge tests or the IELTS, reach out to us today to make an informed decision for your future at +65 9152 1436