Cambridge English / IELTS · Advanced stage (U2C 7–9 (CEFR C1–C2))
IELTS Academic: English for academic study (CEFR B2–C1 range)
Demonstrate readiness for undergraduate or postgraduate study in an English-speaking environment.
| Framework | Cambridge English / IELTS | Cambridge English Qualifications / International English Language Testing System |
|---|---|---|
| Level | IELTS Academic | CEFR |
| Stage | Advanced (U2C 7–9 (CEFR C1–C2)) | |
| Vocabulary | 5,000 words (estimated) | IELTS Academic 6.5–7.5 range (CEFR B2–C1) |
| Skills | 4 skills: listening, reading, writing, speaking | |
| Source | Cambridge English / IELTS Official | https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/ |
Goal
Demonstrate readiness for undergraduate or postgraduate study in an English-speaking environment.
Skills at this level
| Skill | What it evaluates |
|---|---|
| Listening | Understand lectures, tutorials and conversations in academic contexts; take structured notes |
| Reading | Read academic texts quickly; identify main ideas, supporting details, author opinion |
| Writing | Task 1 (150 words): describe, compare or summarise visual data; Task 2 (250 words): essay with argument |
| Speaking | Part 1 (interview), Part 2 (individual long turn), Part 3 (two-way discussion on abstract topic) |
Four-part guide: Vocabulary · Grammar · Exam Format · Prep
Vocabulary
IELTS Academic 6.5–7.5 range (CEFR B2–C1).
Grammar
5 key grammar points.
Exam format
What each skill evaluates at this level.
Preparation plan
Approx. 350 hrs over 32 weeks.
3 Sample Questions
Sample · Writing Task 1
The chart below shows the percentage of male and female students enrolled in higher education in four countries in 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Answer: Model: Overall, female enrolment exceeded male enrolment in all four countries...
Sample · Writing Task 2
Some people believe that universities should focus on providing academic skills, while others think they should prepare students for their future careers. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (250 words)
Answer: Model: While academic skills provide a foundation, universities increasingly recognise...
These are U2C practice items aligned with the official framework, not real exam questions.
Framework: Cambridge English / IELTS. Cambridge English / IELTS Official: https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/. Updated: 2026-11-02.