PEIC Level 1 (A2) study guide
PEIC Level 1 (A2) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
PEIC Level 1 - Pearson English International Certificate Level 1, previously known as PTE General Level 1 - is a general English qualification linked to level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference. It certifies that you can cope with everyday, predictable situations: introducing yourself and others, shopping, asking for directions, understanding short notices and messages, writing a brief note or email, and following slow, clearly spoken language. It suits learners finishing their first years of English, adult returners rebuilding confidence, and anyone who wants independent evidence of elementary ability rather than an academic test score. Performance is reported across four skills - Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking - each weighted equally, so one strong skill cannot carry a weak one. The PEIC Level 1 (A2) study guide has 4 sections and about 1,276 words.
01Reading: finding information in short everyday texts
Level 1 texts are short and everyday: notices, signs, menus, timetables, adverts, text messages, emails and articles of a few sentences. You are not expected to understand every word - you are expected to find the information a question asks for.
297 words, about 1 min02Writing: short messages that cover every point
Level 1 writing is short and practical: a message, email, postcard, note or form, usually 25–50 words, with two or three things you must include. Marks come from three places: content (every point covered), communicative effect (the reader understands, and the tone fits) and accuracy (simple grammar, spelling, capitals and punctuation).
317 words, about 2 min03Listening: catching details and spotting corrections
Level 1 listening is short: one or two sentences or a short dialogue, usually played twice. Topics are everyday - travel, shops, school, appointments, family, weather, directions.
304 words, about 2 min04Speaking: keeping the conversation going
The Level 1 speaking test is a short, friendly interview plus one or two picture or role-play tasks. You will be asked about yourself, your family, your work or studies and your free time, and you may have to describe a picture, ask for something in a shop or give simple directions.
358 words, about 2 min