Aptis Advanced is multi-level: it returns B1, B2 or C1 based on your actual performance. The certificate level is set by your weakest component, not your strongest. Below: what separates B2 from C1 in each part — and which gap is fastest to close.
Each of the 5 components (Grammar & Vocabulary, Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is scored on the CEFR scale. The overall certificate level is the minimum across components. Example:
| Component | Candidate A | Candidate B |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar & Vocabulary | C1 | C1 |
| Reading | C1 | B2 |
| Listening | B2 | C1 |
| Speaking | C1 | C1 |
| Writing | C1 | C1 |
| Final certificate | B2 | B2 |
Both candidates have 4 components at C1, but their weakest sets the final level. Strategy: invest in your weakest component first. Pushing a B2 to C1 in your weakest area moves the certificate; pushing C1 to "C1+" in a strong area does nothing.
B2: handles common tenses correctly, uses everyday vocabulary, occasional preposition or word-form errors.
C1: controlled use of complex tenses (mixed conditionals, perfect forms), wide collocational range, precise word choice over generic vocabulary.
B2: understands the gist and main ideas of texts on familiar topics, can identify explicit information.
C1: detects implicit meaning, irony, author's stance; handles unfamiliar topics by inferring from context; faster reading speed.
B2: understands clear standard accents, follows extended discussion on familiar topics.
C1: copes with regional accents and faster, less structured speech; gets the speaker's attitude and implication, not just the facts.
B2: fluent on familiar topics, occasional searching for words, range of common structures.
C1: spontaneous and precise on any topic, varied register, no overuse of fillers, controlled pronunciation including connected speech.
B2: clear text with simple cohesion (and / but / so), correct basic grammar, sometimes generic vocabulary.
C1: precise lexis, deliberate cohesive devices (although / whereas / on the other hand), controlled register switching, accurate complex sentences.
Depends on your goal:
If you are unsure, start by aiming for B2 reliably. Once your weakest component is solid B2, pushing for C1 becomes much more efficient than going for C1 across the board from day one.
Practise with the bot — after a few sessions you'll see which component is your floor and where to invest.
📲 Open @AptisEnglish_bot