CIPLE Exam Day

Everything you need to know for exam day: schedule, what to bring, what to expect and common mistakes to avoid.

How your day will look

The CIPLE exam usually takes place in a single day, divided into three components with breaks in between. Exact times vary by exam centre, but this is the typical structure.

08:45

Arrival and check-in

Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. Present your ID and registration number. You will be directed to the exam room.

~15 minutes

09:00

Component 1 — Reading and Writing

The longest component: read short texts and answer comprehension questions, then write two texts (one short of 25–35 words and one long of 60–80 words).

1 hour 15 minutes · 45% of the grade

10:15

Break

Pause between components. Have some water and relax. Don't use your phone to consult study materials.

~15 minutes

10:30

Component 2 — Listening Comprehension

Listen to audio recordings (dialogues, announcements, messages) played twice and answer questions. Many candidates find this the hardest part.

~30 minutes · 30% of the grade

11:00

Break / Waiting

Wait for your turn for the oral exam. You may be called immediately or wait up to an hour, depending on the number of candidates.

Variable

11:30

Component 3 — Oral Expression

Face-to-face conversation with an examiner and usually another candidate. Personal introduction, practical situation simulation and conversation about an everyday topic.

~15 minutes · 25% of the grade

12:00

End of exam

After the oral test, the exam is over. Results are published 6 to 8 weeks later, according to the exam calendar.

What to bring

Must bring

✓ ID document — the same one stated on your registration (passport, citizen card or residence permit)

✓ Registration number — printed or on your phone (received by e-mail)

✓ Blue or black pen — bring two just in case

✓ Water bottle — the exam lasts several hours

Not allowed

✗ Phone switched on during the exam (turn it off or put it on airplane mode)

✗ Dictionaries or study materials

✗ Smart watches or earbuds

✗ Talking to other candidates during the written test

What to expect in each component

45% of the grade

Reading and Writing

~5 short texts (notices, messages, e-mails)
Multiple choice and true/false questions
2 texts to write (25–35 and 60–80 words)
Manage your time well — don't spend it all on reading

30% of the grade

Listening Comprehension

~4 audio recordings played 2×
Normal speaking speed
Read the questions before listening
1st listen: general idea. 2nd listen: details

25% of the grade

Oral Expression

~15 minutes with examiner
Introduction + interaction + conversation
Speak calmly, even with mistakes
You can ask for the question to be repeated

Common mistakes on exam day

⏰

Arriving late

If you arrive after the test has started, you may not be allowed in. Plan your route the night before and arrive 15 minutes early.

🪪

Bringing the wrong ID

Your ID must be exactly the same one you stated on your registration. Check that it hasn't expired.

⏱️

Spending all the time on reading

The written component includes both reading and writing in a single 1h15 test. Many candidates spend too long on reading texts and run out of time for writing. Set aside at least 30 minutes for writing.

🔇

Staying silent in the oral test

Silence is the worst possible outcome in the oral test. Even with errors, speaking shows communicative ability. Use simple phrases if necessary.

📝

Not counting words in writing

The texts require 25–35 and 60–80 words. Writing significantly less or more affects your score. Count before submitting.

The night before the exam

Confirm the exam centre address and your route

Prepare your ID and registration number

Prepare two blue or black pens

Set an alarm with enough time to arrive early

Don't study late — rest is more important

Prepare a water bottle and a light snack