ILEC (International Legal English Certificate) is a Cambridge ESOL examination, produced in co-operation with the TransLegal Group, which is Europe’s leading firm of lawyer-linguists.
ILEC is for law students and practising lawyers who are seeking employment in an international legal setting.
ILEC comprises four tests:
- the Test of Reading consists of six extracts from law textbooks and reference books, law journals, legal correspondence and reports. (75 minutes)
- the Test of Writing consists of two law-related writing tasks in response to stimuli provided. Candidates are required to write a letter and a memorandum. (75 minutes)
- the Test of Listening contains four recorded texts which include presentations, lectures, meetings, discussions and interviews. (40 minutes)
- the Test of Speaking contains four parts during which candidates perform a variety of spoken tasks on law-related topics. (16 minutes)
The exam is set at CEFR levels B2-C1. The results are reported as three passing grades (C1 Pass with Merit, C1 Pass and B2 Pass).
The preparation course takes thirty 90 minute sessions held once a week.
The test is administered:
- in authorised Cambridge ESOL test centres;
- twice a year, in November and May.
In Poland the test takes place in Warsaw and Cracow, or other British Council centres if there are 10 candidates for a given session.
