B1 · Adults

B1 Preliminary PET

The safe first step

Level

Length

about 3 hours

Result

approx. 3 weeks

Fee from

CHF 407.50

Next date: Sat 9 May 2026 in BaselRegistration deadline 30 Mar 2026

What it is

What B1 Preliminary proves about you

B1 Preliminary shows that you understand and use English in everyday life and in familiar work situations — emails, simple reports, conversations with customers.

For many candidates B1 is the realistic starting point before B2 First. Taking both within one year is a common route.

Formats

Paper-based
Computer-based
Result available online, certificate by post
No expiry date — valid for life

In brief

Everything that matters for the decision.

Who it is for: Adults
Papers: 4 papersReading and Use of English · Writing · Listening · Speaking
Fee: CHF 407.50CHF 417.50 at the venues on the Basel rate, incl. VAT.
Dates this year: 2 scheduledMore on request, including for classes

Choose a date

Questions about the procedure? +41 61 273 90 43 — Monday to Friday, 8 am – 12 noon and 1 – 5 pm

Where it counts

Three situations in which B1 Preliminary makes the difference.

Starting out at work

Evidence for roles with occasional contact in English.

Level B1

Further education

Admission to courses that use English course material.

Level B1

Stepping stone

A solid basis for B2 First the following year.

Level B1

Format

The papers in detail

Total length about 3 hours. The papers are taken on the same day unless the timetable lists a separate date for the speaking test.

Reading and Use of English

Reading comprehension, vocabulary and grammar across several task types.

1 hr 30 min

Writing

Two pieces of writing: an essay and one task of your choice.

45 min

Listening

Four listening parts; every recording is played twice.

approx. 30 min

Speaking

In pairs, with two examiners in the room.

12 min, in pairs

Dates

B1 Preliminary — scheduled dates

Fee and registration deadline are shown on every line. For classes and companies we set up additional dates.

2 dates · sorted by date

Exam	Written	Venue	Registration deadline	Fee	Action
B1 PreliminaryPaper-based	Sat 9 May 2026Speaking Sun 10 May 2026	Basel	30 Mar 2026Registration open	CHF 417.50	Select
B1 PreliminaryPaper-based	Sat 17 Oct 2026Speaking Sun 18 Oct 2026	Lausanne	7 Sep 2026Registration open	CHF 407.50	Select