English for Commerce (EFC)

The English for Commerce (EFC) examination tests the candidate’s
knowledge of business-related concepts and vocabulary using traditional
written assignment formats. There are three levels and at the two higher
levels there is an optional Oral Test which tests speaking and listening skills
through discussion of a business-related topic. English for Commerce is
offered on demand or timetabled at First, Second and Third Levels.

Overview of the English for Commerce Exams

Level 1
The Level 1 written examination takes 120 minutes and consists of
3 sections:

• Question 1 - To write about 200 words on any one of six topics. The
  subject matter will be of a general and commercial nature.
• Question 2 - To answer questions testing comprehension of a passage of
  about 300 words. The questions will require short written answers
  derived from the content of the passage.
• Question 3 - To write a letter of about 100 words based on given data.
  The subject of the letter will not be technical and the assignment will
  involve writing as a private individual or organisation to an organisation.

Level 2
The Second Level written examination takes 150 minutes and consists of
3 sections:

• Question 1 - To write about 300 words on any one of 6 subjects
  connected with business or current affairs.
• Question 2 - To summarise a passage of about 400 words. The subject
  matter of the passage will concern current affairs or business.
• Question 3 - To write a letter of 120 – 150 words based on given data.
  The assignment will involve writing in an official capacity to an
  organisation concerning a straightforward business transaction.

Level 3
The Third Level written examination takes 180 minutes and consists
of 4 sections:

• Question 1 - To write 400 – 500 words on any one of 6 topics requiring
  some knowledge of commercial practice and procedure. Candidates may
  be asked to give their answers in the form of a report or memorandum.
• Question 2 - To answer questions testing comprehension of a passage
  connected with current affairs or commerce.
• Question 3 - To summarise a business passage of about 500 words
  in the candidate’s own words.
• Question 4 - To write a letter as from an organisation to an individual
  concerning a specific transaction. This will involve some task such as
  giving an explanation of difficulties, requesting clarification, writing an
  apology etc. The necessary background information will be given.

Oral Test
There is an optional oral test for English for Commerce Second and Third
Level. Candidates whose mother tongue is not English are recommended
to take the oral test in order to secure higher education recognition of their
award.

At Second Level candidates are given 5 minutes private preparation time
using a topic sheet provided by the examiner. This is followed by 2 minutes
general conversation and 6 minutes conversation based on the topic.

At Third Level candidates are given 5 minutes private preparation time using a
topic sheet provided by the examiner. This is followed by 2 minutes general
conversation and 8 minutes conversation based on the topic.