IELTS or CAE: which certificate should I choose to apply abroad

If you're a prospective student considering studying abroad, you've probably already faced the question: What is the difference between IELTS and CAE and which should I choose? Both exams certify your level of English, but there are some key differences you need to consider depending on the country and course you're applying for.

In this article we will look at:

• What are IELTS and CAE

• What is the difference between IELTS and CAE: the structure and assessment

• Where the two certificates are recognised

• Which is more suitable for you

• Structure: the exam consists of four parts - Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• Duration: about 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Evaluation: Each part is rated from 0.0 to 9.0 and is given an average overall grade for the exam again from 0.0 to 9.0. Most undergraduate programs require a minimum overall score of 6.0 - 6.5 for admission as each individual component must have a score of at least 5.5 - 6.0. More reputable universities require a minimum overall score of 7.0- 7.5.
• Validity: 2 years
• ✍️ IELTS is conducted by the British Council. Check upcoming exam dates and fees HERE.

Pros and cons:

🟢 The exam is eavailable for laying in many locations and there is a large choice of dates

🟢 Кshoulder is

🟢 Accepted almost worldwide

🔴 Valid for 2 years only

CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced), aka C1 Advanced, is part of the Cambridge Assessment English system. The exam is aimed at advanced students and tests a higher level of English proficiency, focusing on academic and professional use. It is recognised throughout the UK as well as most European universities.

• • Structure: the exam consists of four parts - Reading and Using English, Writing, Listening and Speaking
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Evaluation: Graded A, B, C, D or E with A being the highest. For admission to university an A, B or C result is required.
  • Validity: Indefinite*
  • ✍️ CAE is conducted by many language schools in Bulgaria, each with a different schedule. Here you will find some of them: British Council, BRITANICA, Find all Cambridge exam centres in Bulgaria HERE.

Pros and cons:

🟢 Widely recognised in Europe and the UK

🟢 Unlimited e*

🟢 Demonstrates in-depth academic knowledge

🔴 Long exam

🔴 Recognised in few institutes outside Europe

* Keep in mind that, regardless of the validity of the certificate, universities almost always require the language certificate to have been taken when applying. not earlier than 2 years before your start date. That is, if you start your Bachelor's programme in September 2025, your language certificate must be taken in September 2023 or after. Otherwise you may have to sit a new exam. If you find yourself in this situation, be sure to contact the university in advance to confirm with them whether they will accept the language certificate you have already taken.

There is no universal right answer. Your choice should be based on the requirements of the university you have chosen and your own capabilities.

Choose IELTS if:

• Prefer fast, practical format with wide global acceptance
• Applying to universities NOT just in the UK and Europe

Choose CAE if:

• Applying to universities in UK or EU

• You want a certificate without expiry date

• You speak English in higher academic level and you want to prove it with a more challenging exam

❓ Do universities recognise both certificates?

Yes, most universities accept both IELTS Academic and CAE, but it's a good idea to check the requirements of the specific program.

❓ Which is easier?

This is subjective, but IELTS is often perceived as easier by some students because of the shorter format. In addition, IELTS does not include a Use of English section, which means it does not test grammar and vocabulary as separate components. CAE on the other hand requires deeper grammatical and vocabulary knowledge and is more comprehensive as an exam.

❓ How long does it take to prepare?

Usually between 2 and 6 monthsdepending on your starting level and the time you spend studying.

❓ CAE or CPE?

CAE (C1 level) is absolutely sufficient for you to apply for a Bachelor's degree. If you have the language skills and preparation to take the CPE (new C2), you should have no problem doing so. Of course, universities will accept it.