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Before You Begin

Understanding the PET Exam

Read this before Lesson 1. Get the shape of the exam — papers, timing, question types, marking and sample materials — so every lesson lands in context.

Sample Materials

A quick orientation to the physical materials you'll meet on exam day: question papers, OMR answer sheets and Speaking prompts.

Reading

Question paper layout

Single booklet · candidates mark answers on a separate OMR answer sheet.

  • Cover page with timing (45 min) and instructions.
  • Parts 1–4 test reading comprehension across short and long texts.
  • Parts 5–6 test language in context (vocabulary + grammar gap-fill).
  • Answer sheet has 32 numbered rows — one mark per item.

Reading

Answer sheet

Machine-marked OMR sheet · use pencil · one answer per row.

  • Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 — shade A/B/C (or A–H) ovals.
  • Part 6 — write the word in CAPITAL LETTERS, one letter per box.
  • Spelling counts in Part 6.
  • Erase fully if you change your mind.

Writing

Answer sheet (booklet)

Hand-written · examiner marks holistically against the 4 scales.

  • Part 1 email on the first answer sheet.
  • Part 2 — tick the box (article OR story) for the task you chose.
  • Aim for around 100 words per task; stay close to the guide.
  • Cross out drafts; only the final answer is marked.

Listening

Answer sheet

Filled during the test, then 6 minutes to transfer at the end.

  • Parts 1, 2, 4 — shade A/B/C ovals.
  • Part 3 — write words, short phrases or numbers in CAPITAL LETTERS.
  • Each recording is played twice.
  • Spelling counts in Part 3.

Speaking

Examiner materials

Two examiners: interlocutor (speaks) and assessor (silent).

  • Part 2 — colour photo booklet, one photo per candidate.
  • Part 3 — single prompt sheet with 5 pictures around a central question.
  • Part 4 — examiner script of follow-up discussion questions.
  • All tasks timed by the interlocutor.

Official Cambridge samples

Every paper links to the authentic Cambridge sample paper, answer key and audio.

All official Cambridge PET preparation materials

Handbook, sample papers, audio, videos and answer keys.

Official Cambridge samples

Practise this paper with authentic materials

cambridgeenglish.org

Official Cambridge samples

Practise this paper with authentic materials

cambridgeenglish.org

Official Cambridge samples

Practise this paper with authentic materials

cambridgeenglish.org

Official Cambridge samples

Practise this paper with authentic materials

cambridgeenglish.org