British Centre
Framework
Cambridge Exams are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) published by the Council of Europe. This internationally recognised framework describes language ability in a scale of levels which ranges from A1 for beginners to C2 for those who have mastered a language.
As of 2011 Cambridge ESOL have renamed some exams. Newly the umbrella term “Cambridge English” will now be used, followed by the appropriate level. The new title was chosen for a simpler and more powerful way to promote Cambridge exams, products and services, avoiding the use of acronyms.
KET = Cambridge English: Key
PET = Cambridge English: Preliminary
FCE = Cambridge English: First
CAE = Cambridge English: Advanced
CPE = Cambridge English: Proficiency
KET for Schools = Cambridge English: Key for schools
PET for Schools = Cambridge English: Preliminary for schools
FCE for Schools = Cambridge English: First for schools
The particular levels of the most frequent Cambridge Exams can be found here.