Many students are currently studying Business English as a requirement for their job, but often progress is erratic and difficult to measure. A possible solution to this is for students to prepare for a formal exam. One such exam gaining in popularity is the Cambridge Business English Certificate.
What is the Cambridge BEC examination?
The Cambridge Business English Certificate (BEC) is an international Business English examination. It was introduced by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES) in Europe in 1998 and takes place several times a year. It offers a language qualification for learners who use, or will need to use English for their work.
Why take the BEC exam?
The study of BEC exams offers many advantages to the student;
• The commitment required from the student provides increased motivation to study • The qualification has an application to a wide range of work and business areas • It adds value and weight for either study or a business career • It is an internationally recognised qualification for work or study
Cambridge BEC is available at three levels.
BEC preliminary: Equivalent to Preliminary English Test (PET) BEC Vantage: Equivalent to First Certificate in English (FCE) BEC Higher: Equivalent to Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
Recognition of BEC is increasing rapidly as a growing number of companies are using the examination as a focus for in-company training courses. A list of the companies that use the BEX examinations for a variety of purposes including recruitment can be found at www.CambridgeESOL.org/BEC
Summary Companies that offer their employees the opportunity of the BEC exams, inject new life and motivation into their language training. The exams provide the students with clear objectives, boosting motivation and learning experience, and of course the employees have an internationally recognised language qualification to add to their curriculum vitae and enhance their future careers.
