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Online practice tests - FAQs

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Who are Online Practice Tests aimed at?

Online Practice Tests are aimed at learners who are preparing to take a computer-based or paper-based version of the exam. You can buy them for your own use, or teachers and centres can buy them to give to their students for exam preparation purposes.

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What language skills are tested in the Online Practice Test?

With each Online Practice Test, there is a full practice test for Reading, Writing, Listening and Use of English (where relevant). Please note: there is not an Online Practice Test for Speaking.

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What Online Practice Tests are available?

The following Online Practice Tests are available:

  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
  • Cambridge English: First (FCE)
  • Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET)
  • Cambridge English: Key (KET)
  • Cambridge English: Preliminary for Schools (PET for Schools)
  • Cambridge English: Key for Schools (KET for Schools)
  • IELTS General Training
  • IELTS Academic
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Do I need anything special to run the Online Practice Tests?

No. All you need is a computer with a good internet connection and the latest version of Flash Player which can be downloaded free of charge from Adobe. There will be an automatic system requirements check when you first run the Online Practice Test. Headphones are also recommended to listen to the audio sections. You will also need to disable the pop-up blocker on your machine.

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How can I buy an Online Practice Test?

Online Practice Tests are available to purchase using a credit or debit card from our Online eShop. Login details to access the Online Practice Test will be emailed to you along with your payment confirmation. You may also be able to buy an Online Practice Test from your examination centre.

Go to Online eShop
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How much are the Online Practice Tests?

Online Practice Tests range in price from £7–13, depending on the exam.

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How do I start the practice test?

You should always read or watch a Tutorial first before starting any of the tests. There is a choice of a video tutorial with audio or a PDF version that can be printed or saved. You can view the PDF version by clicking on the Print Tutorial button, which will open in a new window. After completing the Tutorial you can start the test either in Learner Mode or Test Mode.

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What is the difference between Test Mode and Learner Mode?

The Test Mode option is designed to let you practice in conditions that are similar to those of the computer-based test, with a time limit.

The Learner Mode offers additional assistance during the test, for example, it has access to an online dictionary and the ability to check answers. Also, for the Listening test you can view the transcript of the audio file and can pause, stop, scroll and restart the audio.

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What happens if I get a blank screen when I click on the start button or the pages do not load?

Please go to the Adobe Flash Player download site and install the latest Flash Player. If this does not work, log off from the Online Practice Tests site, leave some time for the pages to refresh and then log back on again. Please also ensure that you have java installed on your machine. You can download this here: http://www.java.com/en

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Having trouble installing Flash Player?

If you are using a work computer, you may not have the administration right to install a plug-in on the machine you are using. In this case, please check with your administrator at work.

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When I click 'Start test' nothing happens. What should I do?

To access the test, you must have pop-ups enabled in your browser. The test will then open in a pop-up window. If you are using Internet Explorer 9 on Windows 7, you will need to enable Compatibility View. Click the ‘broken page’ icon in the address bar.

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Will I be able to log in to the test if I don’t access it for some time?

Yes, you will be able to log in as often as you want to within the permitted 3-month period after your purchase. If you want to practise for more than three months and/or take the test more than once, then you will need to purchase another Online Practice Test.

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How long does a login last?

It lasts up to three months after purchase.

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How many times can I access the test?

You can access the test as many times as you like, but once you have submitted your answers for each paper, you cannot re-enter that part of the test. When you have submitted your answers to all papers, you will no longer be able to access the test. Therefore, you should print your answers and feedback before you exit the test.

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How can I obtain feedback on my answers?

To obtain feedback on your answers, click on the Submit Answers button. Please note: you can only submit your answers once for each paper.

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Will I receive scores and feedback on every paper?

You will receive a score and feedback on all papers except for the Writing paper. When you click on the Submit Answers button for the Writing paper you will be able to view your answers and compare them with sample answers for each question.

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Why do I occasionally hear a clicking sound during the test?

To stop these sounds, go to Control Panel> Sounds and Audio Devices> Sounds. Scroll down to the Windows Explorer section and highlight Start Navigation. In the Sound Scheme box, click on No Sounds and save.

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Who do I contact if I have other problems?

Please complete the enquiry form at www.CambridgeESOL.org/online-practice-tests and our Help Desk will respond.