Rules, comparisons and data

What score do you need to pass Cambridge C2 Proficiency?

You need 200 on the Cambridge English Scale to pass C2 Proficiency at grade C. Grades run C (200 to 212), B (213 to 219) and A (220 to 230), all at CEFR C2. A score of 180 to 199 earns a C1 certificate, and 162 to 179 is shown on your Statement of Results without a certificate.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

C2 Proficiency score bands

From Cambridge's results page. Unlike B2 First and C1 Advanced, there is no level above, so all three passing grades are reported at C2.

Cambridge English ScaleGradeCEFR levelCertificate
220 to 230AC2Yes
213 to 219BC2Yes
200 to 212CC2Yes
180 to 199Level C1C1Yes, at C1
162 to 179NoneNoneNo, score shown on Statement of Results

Results and certificates

Your overall score is the average of your skill scores. Digital results arrive 5 to 10 working days after the exam and paper-based results normally 4 to 6 weeks after. Certificates reach your centre in about 3 to 4 weeks (digital) or 7 to 10 weeks (paper) (Cambridge).

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C2 Proficiency or C1 Advanced?

You can also reach C2 through C1 Advanced: a grade A there (200 to 210) is reported at C2 (Cambridge). C2 Proficiency is the exam targeted at C2, and Cambridge describes it as its highest-level exam (Cambridge).

A photo is required on exam day for C2 Proficiency, and you may not be allowed to sit without one (Cambridge). Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page for your country before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from the test owner.

Frequently asked questions

What is the C2 Proficiency pass mark?+

200 on the Cambridge English Scale.

What if I score 190 in C2 Proficiency?+

You do not pass at C2, but you receive a certificate at C1.

Are all C2 Proficiency grades at C2?+

Yes. Grades A, B and C are all reported at CEFR C2.

Does a C2 Proficiency certificate expire?+

Cambridge says its certificates do not expire, but each organisation decides how old a result it accepts.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy

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