Two different ways to take your Cambridge English Qualification

Cambridge English Digital Exams combine the rigour and reliability of Cambridge assessments with the convenience of a fully digital format. Designed to provide a smooth, user-friendly experience, these exams can be taken on a computer and offer real-time results and enhanced accessibility options.
If you prefer the traditional paper-based test or would like to try the Digital format, we can guide you through the differences and help you choose the right option. The qualification at the end is the same, but there are differences in the exam delivery, experience and timing.
Paper-Based or Digital?
Features | Paper-based | Digital |
---|---|---|
Exam location | At an authorised exam centre, school or external venue | At an authorised exam centre, school or external venue |
Availability | Set dates (Key for Schools and Preliminary for Schools available up to 365 days a year*) | Up to 365 days a year* |
Registration | Approximately 4 weeks before exam date | Normally 2 weeks or less before exam date* |
Levels | Pre A1 Starters to C2 Proficiency and TKT | Pre A1 Starters to C2 Proficiency (except A2 Flyers) |
Exam set up | On paper | On computer |
Task types | Identical | Identical |
Exam content | Same questions for all candidates | Questions randomly allocated |
Results | 4–6 weeks after exam date | 5–10 working days after exam date |
Speaking test | Face-to-face | Face-to-face |
Listening test | Digital audio player | Headphones with volume control |
Reading & Writing test | Paper with a pen and pencil | Computer with keyboard, screen and mouse |
Certificates | Paper certificate 7–10 weeks after the exam date | Paper certificate 4 - 6 weeks after the exam date |
*Contact us or check the exam calendar for specific exam schedules.
Which exam format should I choose?
This will depend on what your chosen dates are and what you are more comfortable with. While there are many benefits of a digital exam and the majority of our candidates who take the exam this way recommend it, if you prefer writing by hand, you should consider a paper-based test. However, if you’re familiar with typing on a keyboard and using a computer, we recommend you take the digital exam.
Which format is easier?
Both tests are the same and neither is easier or more difficult than the other. However, some candidates feel more in control when taking the digital exam, as they can:
- Use headphones for the Listening paper.
- Easily edit their Writing.
- Keep track of their word count.
- Highlight and add notes in the Reading Test.
- There is also a timer showing how much time is remaining in each part.
For more information on the benefits of taking a digital exam, visit the Digital Format tab. To try both versions, you will find free Paper and Digital practice tests on Exams Owl, our dedicated support site.
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