BEC Vantage

The exam is for candidates with intermediate to advanced English language skills. This level corresponds to level B2.

Reading (60 minutes)

The reading section tests the ability to read and understand the content of texts of various types such as articles, reports, advertisements, letters, messages, catalogues and other business-related texts. The candidate performs tasks such as selecting from options, combining variants, completing text and forms or correcting text.
Reading accounts for 25% of the total score.

Writing (45 minutes)

In the writing section, the candidate must produce two texts, which may take one of the following forms:

a) communicating with a colleague about a business matter by message, note, or email
b) communication with an external person (customer, supplier) by letter, e-mail or fax
c) a report concerning a specific event that has already happened
d) a proposal concerning a specific future event, together with a recommendation for a solution

Writing accounts for 25% of the total score.

Listening (40 minutes)

The ability to understand spoken language in different situations and to grasp the main ideas is tested. Recordings can be excerpts from conversations, discussions and phone calls. Candidates respond by adding notes, making connections and multiple choice.
Listening corresponds to 25% of the total score.

Speaking (14 minutes)

The candidate's reactions, expressions of agreement or disagreement, and ability to reason and compromise with the examiner and the other candidate on topics of a business nature are tested. This part of the examination is normally conducted in pairs.
Speaking accounts for 25% of the total score.

The pass mark for the exam is 160 out of 190 points from all parts of the exam combined. Candidates who achieve a score of 140-159 will be awarded a B1 level certificate.

180 -190 = Pass at Grade A (Corresponds to the level C1.)
160 - 179 = Pass at Grade B and C
140 - 159 = Level B1(The candidate will receive a certificate of level B1.)
0 - 139 = Fail

For more, see this document.

Flyer: here
Handbook for teachers: here
Information for candidates: here

Sample test: Reading; Writing; Listening; L-Pt1; L-Pt2; L-Pt3
Assignment of the oral part: here