Language
Level
The state language exam at level C1 (advanced level) – often referred to as general – verifies a very high ability to actively and independently use a foreign language in demanding situations in personal, academic, and professional life. Candidates at this level understand complex and more specialized texts, can express themselves fluently and accurately, and can use the language effectively even in abstract or argumentative topics
The exam corresponds to level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and passing it is official confirmation of advanced language proficiency recognized in the Czech Republic and abroad.
The C1 state language exam tests all key language skills at an advanced level:
understanding complex written texts,
understanding more extensive and faster spoken language,
ability to express oneself in writing in a structured and accurate manner,
the ability to communicate fluently and articulately.
Emphasis is placed on depth of understanding, accuracy of expression, and the ability to work with linguistic nuances.
Each part of the exam is assessed separately. To pass the C1 state language exam, you must achieve the required minimum score in all parts of the exam.
After successfully passing the exam, candidates receive a state language exam certificate, which is valid indefinitely.
The C1 state language exam is particularly suitable for:
university students,
candidates for professional and managerial positions,
those interested in working or studying abroad,
all those who need to prove advanced knowledge of a foreign language.
This exam consists of two parts: a written section and an oral section. Each part is evaluated separately.
Candidates may proceed to the oral part only after successfully passing the written part.
The written section lasts 240 minutes and is divided into two parts, with a 15–20-minute break in between.
In the first part of the exam, candidates may use a physical dictionary (reading and writing). The dictionary must be in physical form, and candidates must bring their own.
During the exam, candidates are not permitted to speak with other candidates or use mobile devices.
At the beginning of each section, the examiner distributes the relevant exam questions, which are not to be opened until instructed to do so. At the end of each section, the examiner collects both the exam questions and the answer sheet. Answers are written on the answer sheet. Candidates may write freely on the exam questions; only the answer sheet is graded.
The maximum number of points for the written section is 120 points (30 points for each section). The minimum total score required to pass the written section is 72 points (inclusive). The minimum score for each section is 18 points (inclusive). No points are deducted for incorrect answers.
Duration: 55 minutes
Maximum points: 30
Minimum points: 18
This section consists of 3 texts, based on which the candidate completes the assigned tasks. The texts are usually articles from Czech periodicals and media outlets such as seznam.cz, prozeny.cz, blesk.cz, etc. You must rely solely on the information provided in the text. This section assesses your ability to understand and work with written text.
MOST COMMON TASK TYPES:
SCORING:
For open-ended answers, both grammar and spelling are evaluated, with 0.5 points deducted for each error. No points are deducted for incorrect answers. Correct answers are awarded between 0.5 and 1 point.
Duration: 85 minutes
Maximum score: 30
Minimum score: 18
The free writing section consists of two parts. In Task 1, the candidate chooses one of the two given topics and writes an essay on it. The length of the essay on the first topic is 380 to 440 words. Task 2 is a fixed topic, and the length is 50 to 60 words.
MOST COMMON TASK TYPES:
Optional Topic
Mandatory Topic
SCORING:
Optional Topic – maximum points: 23
Mandatory Topic – maximum points: 7
15–20 minutes
Duration: 40 minutes
Maximum score: 30
Minimum score: 18
Listening comprehension typically consists of 3 audio clips, based on which the candidate completes the assigned tasks. The texts are usually articles or interviews (dialogues) from Czech periodicals and media outlets such as seznam.cz, prozeny.cz, blesk.cz, etc. You must rely solely on the information provided in the text.
MOST COMMON TASK TYPES:
SCORING:
Duration: 55 minutes
Maximum score: 30
Minimum score: 18
The grammar and vocabulary test typically consists of 10 tasks and assesses the practical use of Czech and the ability to apply grammar and vocabulary in context.
MOST COMMON TASK TYPES:
SCORING:
In the oral part of the exam, the candidate draws two topics—one conversational and the other focused on cultural knowledge. After drawing the topics, the candidate has 10–15 minutes to prepare. This time is used to jot down the key points they wish to mention in their response.
The oral exam takes the form of a natural dialogue with the examiner. The candidate should speak fluently and coherently and answer as accurately as possible. The examiner also assesses the candidate’s ability to respond spontaneously, discuss the given topic, and react appropriately in everyday communication situations.
Do not hesitate to contact our language exams coordinator.
KAROLÍNA PETROVÁ
E: info@skolapelican.com
T: +420 774 742 296