Free FCE Placement Test

FCE PLACEMENT TEST (B2 FIRST)

Find out your English level with a free online test - FCE PLACEMENT TEST (B2 FIRST)

 

This Test is more specifically oriented towards identifying how close you are to the level required for Cambridge exams (FCE).

You will receive your English test results by email, along with personalized recommendations for Cambridge exam preparation (FCE, CAE) and a clear study plan, including the suggested number of study hours per week and an estimated timeline for your progress.

Please answer all questions carefully.

 

Reading & Use of English

Time: 55 minutes

 

Part 1 – Advanced Multiple Choice Cloze

For questions 1–8, choose the answer (A, B, C or D) which best fits each gap.

Why We Remember Certain Books

Some novels remain with us long after we have finished reading them. We may forget parts of the plot, but the emotional atmosphere somehow stays (1) ______ our minds. Psychologists suggest this happens because stories allow us to connect fictional experiences with our own memories.

Readers often become emotionally attached to characters whose struggles seem (2) ______ to situations in their own lives. As a result, a novel can feel deeply personal, even if the events described are entirely imaginary.

Teachers frequently encourage students to read widely, but experts warn against forcing young people to read books they find completely (3) ______. According to educational researchers, enjoyment plays a major role in developing long-term reading habits.

Digital media has also changed the way people consume stories. Some critics argue that social media has reduced attention spans, while others (4) ______ that online platforms have actually introduced literature to wider audiences.

Recent studies suggest that students who read regularly tend to perform better academically. However, researchers are careful not to (5) ______ that reading alone guarantees success. Family environment, motivation and educational opportunities all contribute.

Nevertheless, many people continue to see books as an important form of escape. In stressful periods of life, reading can provide comfort, distraction and even a sense of companionship. It is perhaps unsurprising that book sales often increase during periods of economic or social (6) ______.

Some psychologists even believe that fiction improves empathy by encouraging readers to understand unfamiliar perspectives. While there is still debate surrounding this theory, evidence in recent years has increasingly (7) ______ towards the idea that literature can influence emotional intelligence.

Whether people read for education, relaxation or curiosity, stories continue to (8) ______ an essential role in modern culture.

 

Part 2 – Open Cloze

For questions 9–14, choose the word which best fits each gap. Choose only one word.

Learning a Second Language

Many people believe that children learn languages more easily (9) ______ adults, but recent research suggests the situation is more complicated than previously thought.

Adults may struggle with pronunciation, yet they are often better at understanding grammar rules and analysing patterns. Children, on the other hand, usually learn in a more natural way, picking (10) ______ vocabulary through repeated exposure.

Motivation also plays an important role. Students who genuinely enjoy the language are far more likely to continue studying it, even (11) ______ progress seems slow.

Teachers increasingly emphasise communication rather than perfection. In the past, learners were often afraid of making mistakes, but nowadays errors are viewed as a normal part (12) ______ the learning process.

Technology has also transformed language education. Students can now practise speaking with native speakers online and access videos, podcasts and articles from all over the world.

However, experts warn that apps alone are unlikely to make someone fluent. Genuine improvement depends (13) ______ regular practice and meaningful interaction.

Some students become discouraged because they compare themselves to others. Yet language learning is highly individual, and progress rarely happens at exactly the same speed for everyone.

In the end, the most successful learners are usually those (14) ______ remain patient and consistent. Even spending fifteen minutes a day practising can make a significant difference over time.

 

Part 3 – Word Formation

Use the word given in capitals at the end of each line to form a word that fits the gap. Choose only one word.

The Psychology of Music

Music has a surprisingly powerful effect on human emotion and behaviour. Researchers have discovered that certain sounds can influence mood, concentration and even physical (15) ______.

PERFORM

For example, athletes often listen to energetic music before competitions because it increases feelings of confidence and (16) ______.

MOTIVATE

Meanwhile, slower instrumental music is frequently used in hospitals and waiting rooms to create a calmer environment and reduce feelings of (17) ______.

ANXIOUS

Scientists believe this reaction may be connected to the brain’s natural response to rhythm and repetition. Some studies have even suggested that musical training improves memory and problem-solving (18) ______.

ABLE

Although researchers continue to debate the long-term effects of music on intelligence, there is general (19) ______ that music strongly affects emotional wellbeing.

AGREE

As streaming platforms become increasingly popular, listeners now have immediate access to millions of songs. This has dramatically changed the music industry and the way artists gain public (20) ______.

RECOGNISE

 

Part 4 – Key Word Transformations

Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Choose only one word.

21. I haven’t seen Marta since last summer.
BEEN
I ________________________ Marta since last summer.

22. It wasn’t necessary for Leo to buy a new laptop.
NEED
Leo ________________________ a new laptop.

23. ‘Why don’t we study together?’ Anna said.
SUGGESTED
Anna ________________________ together.

24. The film was too frightening for my little brother.
ENOUGH
My little brother ________________________ watch the film.

25. They cancelled the concert because of the storm.
CALLED
The concert ________________________ because of the storm.

 

Part 5 – Reading

Read the article and answer the questions.

Why Young People Are Returning to Handmade Hobbies

In recent years, activities such as knitting, painting, baking and pottery have become unexpectedly popular among younger generations. While these hobbies were once associated mainly with older people, social media has transformed them into fashionable and highly visible activities.

Many young adults describe modern life as mentally exhausting. Constant notifications, academic pressure and long hours spent online have encouraged people to search for activities that feel slower and more tangible. Handmade hobbies offer visible progress and a sense of achievement that digital environments often lack.

Psychologists suggest that repetitive creative activities can reduce stress levels. Knitting, for example, requires enough concentration to keep the mind occupied without creating additional pressure. Some therapists even compare the calming effects of certain crafts to meditation.

Another important factor is social connection. Online communities dedicated to art, baking or sewing allow people to share advice and encourage one another. In many cities, craft workshops and community classes have become increasingly common.

However, not everyone is convinced these hobbies represent a major cultural shift. Critics argue that trends promoted online often disappear quickly. Others believe that handmade hobbies have simply become another form of content creation designed for social media audiences.

Still, supporters argue that even temporary interest can have positive effects. Whether people continue these hobbies for years or only a few months, they may still benefit from reduced stress and improved confidence.