Cambridge English Qualifications for AEIS
Your comprehensive guide to Cambridge English Qualifications and how they prepare students for AEIS success in Singapore schools.
Understanding Cambridge English Qualifications (CEQ)
Cambridge English Qualifications (CEQ) are globally recognized English language assessments developed by Cambridge Assessment English, a department of the University of Cambridge. These comprehensive evaluations are widely accepted by educational institutions and employers worldwide.
CEQ for AEIS/S-AEIS Admissions
AEIS & S-AEIS Overview
Standardized tests by Singapore's MOE for international students seeking admission to mainstream schools, assessing English and Mathematics proficiency.
CEQ's Critical Role
Mandatory English proficiency proof for AEIS/S-AEIS eligibility, with specific requirements based on age and target grade level.
Validity Period
While CEQ certificates are valid for life, MOE requires test results from within 12 months before registration.
Academic Success
Demonstrates benchmark English skills essential for effective communication and success in Singapore's education system.
AEIS Exam Requirements
S-AEIS Exam Requirements
Complete Skills Assessment
Evaluates all four language skills:
- • Reading
- • Writing
- • Listening
- • Speaking
Flexible Formats
Choose your preferred examination format:
- • Paper-based testing
- • Computer-based testing
Exam Retake Option
Not satisfied with your score? Take advantage of the exam retake option to improve your results and achieve your desired proficiency level.
Examination Format
| Features | Paper-based | Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Exam location | At an authorised exam centre, school, or external venue | At an authorised exam centre, school, or external venue |
| Availability | Set dates (Key for Schools and Preliminary for Schools available up to 365 days a year) | Up to 365 days a year |
| Registration | Approximately 4 weeks before exam date | Up to 2 working days before exam date |
| Levels | A2 Key–C2 Proficiency | A2 Key–C2 Proficiency |
| Exam set up | On paper | Available on PCs, laptops and Macs |
| Task types | Identical | Identical |
| Exam content | Same questions for all candidates | Questions randomly allocated |
| Results | 4–6 weeks after exam date | 5–10 working days after exam date |
| Speaking test | Face-to-face | Face-to-face |
| Listening test | Digital audio player | Headphones with volume control |
| Reading and Writing test | Paper with pen and pencil | Computer with keyboard, screen and mouse |
| Certificates | Paper certificate sent to the exam centre 7–10 weeks after the exam date | Paper certificate usually sent to the exam centre within 3–4 weeks |
Detailed Exam Components
Each exam tests four essential language skills. Here's a detailed breakdown of components and scoring to help track your progress.
A2 Key Components
Basic English communication skills assessment for AEIS primary school admission
Reading
Five different reading tasks
- Parts 1-5 of paper
- 1 mark per correct answer
- 30 possible marks
Format
- Multiple-choice questions
- Matching exercises
- Short answer questions
Writing
Two writing tasks
- Parts 6-7 of paper
- 15 marks per part
- 30 total marks
Format
- Guided writing tasks
- Form filling exercises
- Short message writing
Listening
Everyday situation dialogues
- 30-minute test
- 5 parts total
- 25 possible marks
Format
- Various dialogues
- Monologue tasks
- Multiple-choice questions
Speaking
Face-to-face assessment
- 8-10 minutes
- 45 possible marks
Format
- Paired/group format
- Real-world communication
- Interactive tasks
B1 Preliminary Components
Advanced assessment for higher primary and secondary school admission
Reading
Complex comprehension tasks
- 45-minute paper
- 6 parts total
- 32 possible marks
Format
- Signs and notices
- Newspaper articles
- Magazine content
Writing
Extended writing tasks
- 45-minute test
- 2 tasks total
- 40 total marks
Format
- Email responses
- Article writing
- Story composition
Listening
Advanced audio comprehension
- 30 minutes
- 4 parts total
- 25 possible marks
Format
- Real-life situations
- Multiple contexts
- Varied accents
Speaking
Interactive communication
- 12-17 minutes
- 30 possible marks
Format
- 4 speaking parts
- Paired/group format
- Interactive tasks
* Scores shown are practice test benchmarks. Your actual exam performance may vary.
CEQ Exam Journey
Find Test Center
Search for available test centers in your country through the official Cambridge Website
Register & Pay
Select your preferred center and complete the registration process Approximate Test Registration Fees: • A2 Key for Schools: S$410.00* • B1 Preliminary for Schools: S$450.00*
Prepare
Utilize preparation resources like Aeiser to effectively prepare for your exam
Take the Exam
Attend the exam at your registered test center on the scheduled date
Next Steps
Receive your results and proceed with your AEIS/S-AEIS application
* Fees are approximate and may vary by test center and country