Business English Certificates (BEC)

Abstract

This paper presents a series of business English certificates (BEC) offered by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES). BEC comprises three types of examinations: BEC1 (aimed at elementary and lower level of competence), BEC2 (aimed at intermediate level of competence) and BEC3 (for an advanced level of competence). The BEC suite of examinations offers an English language qualification for learners wishing to use English for purposes of international business. In terms of content, all three levels test the four language skills: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking, in a variety of options and tasks. Corporate recognition (or recognition for employment purposes) is increasing rapidly as more and more companies use BEC for recruitment, promotion, focus for in-company training courses etc. BEC examinations provide an independent objective assessment of an employee or potential employee's ability. In Romania, this type of examinations started in 1999, followed by a rapid growth in the coming years.