C1 Business Higher preparation

Free: Paper-based sample test

Download a complete set of papers for the C1 Business Higher exam. The folders include:

• Listening paper, with tapescript, audio files and answer key.
• Reading paper, with answer key.
• Writing paper.
  There is no writing answer key but we have added sample answers and examiner comments from the Business Handbook for teachers for Test 1.
• Speaking test tasks.
  There is no speaking answer key, but we have included the assessment scales and please refer to the relevant section in the Business Handbook for teachers for more information on the speaking test.

C1 Business Higher sample papers

Free: Computer-based sample tests

You will need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests. You can download Firefox for free here. Once downloaded, open Firefox and use the links below to view the tests.

Watch this tutorial before you start to help you understand what you need to do. 

Make a note of your answers as you do the test.

Reading sample test

Listening sample test

Writing sample test

Use the answer keys below:

Reading answer key

Listening answer key

There is no answer key for the Writing paper, but there are sample answers and examiner comments in the relevant pages of the Business Handbook for teachers.

Top tips videos

View our series of 48 top tips videos produced to help you prepare for your BEC exam.

Watch now

Writing Practice

Want to practice your written English? Write & Improve gives you feedback in seconds.

Write and Improve does not currently contain specific Business-related writing topics, it is still a fantastic way to improve your writing skills.

Free: English practice

Practise your English with our free online activities. We have activities for reading, writing, listening, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. 

Search for free English activities

Speaking test information

You can watch a full C1 Higher Speaking Test with Examiner Commentary here

A sample Speaking test worksheet for students from the C1 Business Higher Speaking test preparation pack.

C1 Business Higher speaking test worksheet

You can also watch a 360⁰ of a full C1 Business Higher speaking test.

Watch the 360⁰ video

Writing checklist – Level C1

Use this checklist to improve your written English and practice for your exam. 

C1 writing checklist

Information for candidates

A guide to the exam, with advice on preparing for the exam, tips for exam day and useful links.

C1 Business Higher information for candidates

Vocabulary list

To access vocabulary at C1 level that could be used in C1 Business Higher, please refer to the English Vocabulary Profile.

Summary regulations for candidates

All the important information you need to know when taking the exam.

Summary regulations for candidates

Exam day tips

Exam day tips – paper-based exams

Exam day tips – computer-based exams

C1 Business Higher FAQs

Official Cambridge English preparation materials