PCE English Exams

This subject is part of the general core curriculum. It's one of the mandatory subjects for admission to most universities, but optional in others, such as Madrid or Valencia. Almost everyone has a minimum foundation in this subject. The difference is that you have to demonstrate this in an exam. As you can see, it's one of the top three subjects with the best grades and passing rates. A safe choice if you have confidence in yourself. If your English is American-style, it's not a problem. Although the exam is more British-style, it won't be a problem as long as your spelling is correct.

Last call data (2024)

• Pass percentage: 81,63% (see approvals of all subjects)
• Average grade of those approved: 8,14
• Exam type: Test + Text commentary
• Difficulty of the subject: Low
• Exam Difficulty: Low

Selectivity English Syllabus

1. Verb tenses
2. Construction of words. Synonyms and antonyms
3. Participle or infinitive
4. Adverbial subordinate clauses
5. Relative clauses
6. Conditional
7. Indirect style
8. Prepositions
9. Passive voice
10. Modal verbs
11. Sentence structures
12. Writing short essays.

Most frequently asked questions

The exam always has a first part of reading comprehension, on which you will have to answer three (choose two) multiple choice questions. Next, there will be eleven (choose eight) multi-choice multiple choice questions on vocabulary, grammar and use of English (synonyms, tenses, modal verbs, prepositions...).

The second part is an essay-type writing of between 120 and 150 words, in which the topic is usually related to the text of the first part. It is very important that the text is well structured, clear, with concise ideas and that ideas are not repeated. Of course, there cannot be spelling mistakes, the vocabulary has to be correct, and they will value the use of connectors and various grammatical tenses.

How is the English exam structured at the PCE?

The required level is at least B1.

• 1 part. A text is presented, followed by two semi-open questions about synonyms and antonyms in a text and two multiple-choice questions, with no optional answers. Correct answers add 0.5 points, and incorrect answers subtract 0.15 points.
• 2 part. It will be a 6-question test, of which 4 must be chosen. The questions are about verb tenses, grammar, etc.
• 3 part. Write a written essay (letter, email, opinion piece, etc.), and one of the options is always an opinion piece. Mature writing is valued. The minimum word count is 180. Using fewer words is penalized; using more is not, although it is not recommended.

Spelling and grammar mistakes are penalized based on severity, ranging from 0,1 to 0,5. Most errors will result in a 0,25 point deduction.

Tricks and tips

• There is no proof of speaking. Don't be afraid of speaking in public...for now 🙂
• If you go to a university where English is not mandatory and you have a low level, take another subject. If you have a medium/high level, don't hesitate. This is the best option.
• Try to watch the series and movies in their original version.
• On the exam, read the statement several times and pay attention to the requirements of each question.
• Read a lot, reading texts will help you establish vocabulary and grammar and see how the texts are structured.
• Make a summary table with the verb tenses and when each of them is used.
• Review modal verbs, passive voice and indirect speech.
• Study the vocabulary and prepositions.
• Practice many exercises especially writing.
• Before writing the text, make an outline with what you want to say, your arguments (for and against), and structure it (introduction, development and conclusion). Remember not to repeat ideas.
• The writing must be on the chosen topic.
• Pay close attention to spelling mistakes, whether the text is singular or plural, and verb tenses.
• It is very important to be neat and tidy when responding, to use clear handwriting and to avoid any crossing out.
• If we were you, start with the multiple choice because they tend to be shorter questions and answer only the ones you know in the first pass. After a second pass, try to solve the ones you haven't achieved immediately. Since they remain, only answer those in which you have medium-high confidence. Never answer at random. Dedicate a maximum of 30 minutes to this part, so you will have 60 minutes for the writing.

PCE English Resources

• See PCE 2026 English History Model (If you want to see more models and request the resolution, click here) here)
• Free notes