The Business English Certificates (BEC) are internationally recognised qualifications that demonstrate to employers what practical language skills learners have for using English in professional contexts for work, whether it is industry, business or government. 

The Cambridge Business English courses leading to the Business English Certificates (BEC) are extensive business English courses designed to bring the real world of global business into the classroom and have a broad business context, suitability and value.  

The courses, available at three levels – BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage and BEC Higher – are ideal for learners preparing for a career in business who may wish to obtain a business English qualification, or for those already working who want to improve their English communication skills and job prospects. 

The courses prepare learners to use English in a business context and develop all four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing. At all three levels, which are aligned with Levels B1 to C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, the ‘business’ aspect of the courses is reflected in the vocabulary, the types of texts selected and the situations presented in the tasks. 

At the end of the courses, learners can expect to be able to:

• use essential business vocabulary with accuracy
• communicate effectively in business areas of presentations, meetings, negotiations, telephoning and social English
• present facts and figures with accuracy and clarity
• talk about business trends and patterns
• make comparisons and analyses
• develop the confidence needed in handling business situations effectively 

BEC is used as a focus for in-house training courses by a growing number of corporations as well as a qualification for recruitment by leading international companies. Many universities in the UK recognise BEC Higher as a suitable entry requirement for business-related and other courses of study. 

Learners are advised to first take a placement test to determine which course is appropriate to their level of English language proficiency. The one-hour test can be arranged to be taken at a CEFL Centre offering the Cambridge Business English courses. At the end of the course, they can opt to sit for the appropriate level exam from Cambridge ESOL Examinations.

Click here to find your nearest CEFL Centre offering the Cambridge Business English courses for full information on course fees, duration, schedule and other details. 

Click here for further information on the BEC exam components, eligibility, schedule, fees, registration and results.