Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE)
The highest Cambridge English qualification, set at CEFR C2 (near-native), on the Cambridge English Scale.
- Provider
- Cambridge English
- Score scale
- 162–230 (scale score)
- Format
- Four papers — Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening and Speaking.
- Length
- About 4 hours across the papers.
Where it's accepted
Accepted by universities worldwide as the top proof of English mastery; the certificate does not expire.
What score you actually need
Built from the verified programmes and universities in our catalogue that publish a requirement for this test — real numbers off official pages, not a brochure claim.
Most common required scores
Number of verified programmes asking for each overall score.
- 18546
- 19125
- 17623
- 18017
- 1696
- 1936
- 1755
- 1904
Example programmes
The most selective bars across different universities. Open a university page for the full programme list.
| University | Programme | Requires |
|---|---|---|
| University of Cambridge | MPhil in Environmental Policy | 193 |
| Yale University | Master of Public Policy in Global Affairs | 193 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science | MSc Law and Finance | 191 |
| University College London | LLM in Environmental Law and Policy | 191 |
| University of Oxford | Master of Public Policy (MPP) | 191 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Science Writing | 190 |
| University of Amsterdam | Advanced LLM in Technology Governance | 190 |
| Columbia University | Master of International Affairs (MIA) | 185 |
Frequently asked questions
What Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) score do I need for a master's?
Across 139 verified programmes on Global Study Prep, Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) requirements range 160–193, most typically 185 (median). Requirements vary by programme — confirm on the official page.
How is Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) scored?
Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) is reported on a 162–230 (scale score) scale.
How long is Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE)?
About 4 hours across the papers.
Where is Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) accepted?
Accepted by universities worldwide as the top proof of English mastery; the certificate does not expire.
Score requirements vary by university, programme and scholarship — always confirm on the official page. Global Study Prep is independent and not affiliated with any test provider.