The ECL examination

• No hidden syllabus — the task types are published in advance.
• The same assessment criteria are used in every exam centre.
• Your certificate does not expire.

The exam has two parts on exam day: the written modules, then the oral exam. Exact timings are confirmed by your exam centre in your invitation.

1. Reading

   01

   Understanding written texts and finding specific information in them.

   Duration

   [Duration]

   Pass mark

   60%

2. Writing

   02

   Producing clear, well-organised text for a practical purpose.

   Duration

   [Duration]

   Pass mark

   60%

3. Listening

   03

   Understanding spoken texts and conversations at natural speed.

   Duration

   [Duration]

   Pass mark

   60%

4. Speaking

   04

   Talking with an examiner and another candidate about everyday topics.

   Duration

   [Duration]

   Pass mark

   60%

Dictionaries and other aids are only allowed where the exam regulations say so. Your centre will confirm what you may bring.

1. 01

   Each module stands alone

   Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking are marked separately. Passing one does not depend on the others.

2. 02

   Choose your combination at registration

   Register for the complete exam or for single modules — but choose every module you intend to take in the same registration.

3. 03

   One certificate per exam period

   Modules you pass in the same period are listed together on one certificate.

4. 04

   Overall certificate within a year

   Pass all four modules within one year and you can request an overall certificate.

These rules apply to exams taken from August 2026 onwards and are not applied retrospectively.

1. A2Elementary

   Understand sentences and common expressions on familiar topics, and handle simple everyday exchanges.

2. B1Intermediate

   Deal with most situations while travelling or working, and describe experiences, plans and opinions.

3. B2Upper-intermediate

   Interact fluently with native speakers and write clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects.

4. C1Advanced

   Use the language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.

Not sure which level you need? Check the requirement of your university, employer or visa authority before you register.

• A

  On your own

  Work through the published sample papers and free material, one module at a time.

• B

  With a course

  Join a preparation course through your country’s site and practise under exam conditions.

• C

  With a mock exam

  Sit a full practice test at your level to see where you stand before you register.

Do I have to take all four modules?

No. Since August 2026 you can register for any combination of modules. Each one needs at least 60% to pass.

How long is my certificate valid?

The ECL certificate does not expire. Some universities and employers ask for a recent certificate, so check their own rule.

Can I take one module again?

Yes — register for that module in a later exam period. Modules passed within one year can be combined into an overall certificate.

What if I need special arrangements?

Tell your exam centre when you register. Arrangements are made according to the exam regulations. [Confirm local procedure]

Which level should I register for?

Choose the level your university, employer or authority asks for. If nothing is specified, a practice test at two levels is the quickest way to decide.

Where do I pay the fee?

Fees are set and collected by your country’s site, not by this hub.