Preliminary English Test (PET)

London Crest Open Centre is delighted to introduce a new computer-based PET examination with the first session taking place on 19th July, 2008. Please contact us for further information.

What is PET?

The Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET) is the second level of the Cambridge exams in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). It is an intermediate level exam, set at Level B1 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework for modern languages. PET recognises the ability to cope with everyday written and spoken communications.

Successful candidates receive a certificate awarded by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. The certificate is recognised by employers in many countriesand universities in some countries also recognise PET as an initial qualification in English. All candidates receive a statement of results, showing how they have performed in each of the three papers.

PET is provided by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations - a department of the University of Cambridge in England. PET is part of the Main Suite of Cambridge English examinations, which is closely linked to the Council of Europe's Common European Framework for modern languages (CEF). 

Who is PET for?

PET is designed for people whose English is adequate for many practical purposes including work, study and social situations. It indicates an ability to cope with situations which require a predictable use of language, read simple textbooks and articles and write simple personal letters or make notes during a meeting.

Candidates should have a wide grasp of vocabulary and be able to use appropriate communication styles for a variety of situations. They should be starting to do more than simply pick out facts and should be able to detect opinions, attitudes and moods in spoken and written English.

PET is taken by more than 80,000 people each year in more than 80 countriesand is a valuable qualification for anyone who wants to work or study abroad or to develop a career in international business. It is also useful preparation for higher level examinations. 

Why choose PET?

PET covers the four main language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as assessing grammar and vocabulary, testing with material from real life situations. It therefore provides evidence of practical skillsand indicates sufficient ability to be of practical use in clerical, secretarial and managerial jobsand in many industries, such as tourism, where contact with English speakers is required.

Studying for PET is a popular way to improve your language skills and use them in a wide range of contexts. PET is recognised by many employers and educational institutions as proof of intermediate level English skills. 

What does the exam involve?

PET has three papers Reading and Writing | Listening | Speaking

Each paper is returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment, except the Speaking Test, which is conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face to face. All examiners are accredited by Cambridge ESOL.

Reading and Writing (Paper 1) 1 hour 30 minutes

The Reading and Writing paper assesses the ability to read and understand factual texts taken from signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. Candidates need to be able to understand the main messages and the effect they may have on a readerand to have stratfor exampleies for dealing with unfamiliar words and structures.

The paper includes a variety of tasks including filling in gaps in simple texts, completing formsand writing a short report or letter of around 100 words to demonstrate control of structure, vocabulary, spelling and punctuation.

Listening (Paper 2) 30 minutes

The Listening paper assesses the ability to understand recorded material such as public announcements and dialogues, which will be delivered at a moderate pace. Candidates need to be able to understand the factual information in the recordingsand to assess the attitudes and intentions of the speakers.

Speaking (Paper 3) 10-12 minutes

The Speaking Test assesses the ability to interact in conversational English with an examiner and with another candidate. Candidates need to be able to answer and ask questions about themselves and to talk freely about their likes and dislikes.

 

What to do next...

Find out more about PET

More information about PET is available from our centre, for example. a list of publishers that produce exam learning material as well as a list of employers and universities that recognise PET.

Talk to your teacher

Most candidates take a preparation course before entering for the exam, but this is not compulsory. If you are studying English at the moment, speak to your teacher about preparing for PET. If you are not studying at the moment, we will be able to advise you.

Register for the exam

To Register for the exam, please click here (NB: entries cannot be made directly to Cambridge) 

Examination dates for 2008/9

How much does this exam cost and how can I apply for it?

From June 2008 the PET examination will cost £60.

The closing entry date for the PET exam in November is 10th October 2008 and the closing entry date for the exam in December is 24th October 2008. Entries received after this date will be subject to a £13.50 Late Entry Fee.

To apply for this exam, please download and complete the application form and send it together with your payment to London Crest Open Centre. Please click here for contact details.

If you wish to pay by credit/debit card, please telephone us on +44 (0)20 8952 8040. Click here to download the application form (this may take a few minutes to download).

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