Linguaskill, Aptis, Cambridge B2, and EOI: which exam should you choose?

Quick Comparison: Key Differences

All four exams can prove your English level, but they serve different needs. Linguaskill and Aptis are computer-based, modular, and offer quick results. Cambridge B2 First is a fixed-level exam with an internationally recognized certificate that never expires. EOI is the Spanish public route to obtain an official language certification. Key points at a glance:

• Linguaskill: adaptive, online, modular; results often available in about 48 hours for Reading & Listening.
• Aptis (British Council): modular with a Core component for grammar and vocabulary; you choose which skills to assess.
• Cambridge B2 First (FCE): fixed-level exam with four papers and a certificate that never expires.
• EOI: official public certification (A1 to C2) linked to the academic year and certification tests.

What Is Linguaskill and Who Is It For?

Linguaskill is a computer-based English exam from Cambridge, designed to quickly and flexibly assess your level. It’s adaptive: questions adjust to your performance as you answer, allowing your level to be estimated with fewer questions. It’s a great fit when you need fast results for university admission, recruitment processes, or internal company requirements.

Format and Skills

It’s modular: you can take Reading & Listening (which are combined), Writing, and Speaking, and choose only the modules you need. Everything is done on a computer, making logistics easier than with a paper-based exam.

Scoring and Results

Results are given on the Linguaskill scale, aligned with the CEFR (typically ranging from about 82 to 180+); a B2 is usually around 160 to 179. One of its main advantages is speed: Reading & Listening results are often available in about 48 hours.

What Is Aptis and Who Is It For?

Aptis is the British Council’s English exam. Its main feature is flexibility: in addition to a Core component for grammar and vocabulary, you choose the skills you actually need to certify (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking). It’s a good option when an institution or employer asks you to prove your level by skill.

Format and Skills

It’s computer-based and modular. The Core assesses grammar and vocabulary, and from there you add the required skills, tailoring the exam to the goal of each session.

Scoring and Results

The result includes a CEFR level for each skill, so you can clearly see your profile (for example, stronger in comprehension than in production). Since it’s digital, results are usually quick, though it’s best to confirm timelines for each session.

What Is Cambridge B2 First and Who Is It For?

Cambridge B2 First (formerly FCE) is a fixed-level exam aimed at B2. Unlike adaptive tests, the exam is the same for everyone and your result shows whether you’ve reached that level and by how much. It’s the best choice if you want a prestigious, internationally recognized certificate, well known by universities and employers.

Format and skills

It consists of four papers: Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The Speaking test is usually conducted with examiners, often in pairs. There are both paper-based and computer-based versions, depending on the test center and session.

Scoring and results

Scores are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. For B2 First, results range from 140 to 190: a passing score starts at 160, B2 is between 160 and 179, and a grade A (equivalent to C1) is awarded for scores of 180 or higher. A key advantage is that the certificate does not expire, which is valuable if you need long-term proof of your qualification.

What is the EOI and who is it for

The EOI (Escuela Oficial de Idiomas) is Spain’s public network of language schools. It issues official certifications for levels A1 to C2 and offers courses and certification exams according to the academic year. It’s the recommended route if you need an official certification in Spain, often required for civil service exams, public sector jobs, or certain educational criteria.

Format and skills

EOI certification assesses all four skills and follows the academic year calendar, with exams scheduled on specific dates. As a public institution, places and registration are subject to quotas and the enrollment process of each autonomous community.

Scoring and results

The result is an official certificate for a CEFR level (for example, B1, B2, or C1). Timelines depend on the exam session and region, so results are usually less immediate than with digital exams like Linguaskill or Aptis.

How scoring works and when results are released

Each exam uses its own scale, but all are interpreted according to the CEFR; the ranges mentioned here are for guidance and not absolute figures comparable across exams. For equivalencies between levels and exams, check our levels guide. In terms of speed, the difference is significant:

1. Fastest: Linguaskill (Reading & Listening often within about 48 hours) and Aptis, thanks to their digital format.
2. Intermediate: Cambridge B2 First, with results available after a few weeks.
3. Variable: EOI, depending on the session and the autonomous community.

Recognition: who accepts each one

In general, Cambridge B2 First is widely recognized internationally and its certificate does not expire, making it attractive for universities and employers. Linguaskill and Aptis are accepted by many universities and companies that value quick results and skill-based assessment, though acceptance depends on each institution. EOI is the official public certification in Spain, especially relevant in the country’s educational and administrative sectors.

Practical tip: before registering, check the website of your target institution (university, company, or organization) to confirm which exam and level they require. Acceptance varies, so the only reliable source is the official requirement from whoever is asking for your certification.

How to choose based on your goal

There’s no single best exam: the right one is the one required by your target institution and that fits your timeline and budget. These guidelines can help you decide:

• For university: check which exam and level your institution accepts; if you have a choice, Cambridge B2 First offers a permanent, highly recognized certificate, while Linguaskill and Aptis stand out for their speed.
• For work: if the company assesses by skills or needs fast results, Linguaskill or Aptis are a good fit; if you want a prestigious addition to your résumé, Cambridge is a solid choice.
• For tight deadlines: prioritize Linguaskill (often within about 48 hours) or Aptis.
• For official procedures in Spain: EOI, as a public institution, is an official option to consider, depending on its academic calendar and available places.
• If you want a certificate that never expires: Cambridge B2 First.

Whatever you choose, the best way to prepare is by practicing with mock tests that give instant feedback and explain every answer, so you can identify your weak areas by skill before exam day.

Frequently asked questions

Keep reading

• Linguaskill B2 mock test
• Aptis B2 mock test
• Cambridge B2 First mock test
• EOI B1-C1 mock test
• English levels and CEFR equivalencies
• How to prepare for Linguaskill B2
• Cambridge B2 First structure and tips