C1 Advanced looks to prove high-level achievement in English and is designed for learners preparing for university or professional life.
[2] C1 Advanced was developed in response to feedback from language centres that there was a too great gap between the qualifications now known as B2 First and C2 Proficiency.
Successful candidates (those scoring above 160 on the Cambridge English Scale) will receive a hard copy certificate within three months of the exam.
Holders of a C1 Advanced certificate display similar language ability to candidates who have an IELTS score of 6.5 to 8.0.
It is designed to demonstrate that a candidate has achieved a high level of English ability which can be used in academic and professional contexts.
C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency can be used to apply for degree courses (or higher) at almost all UK universities, as candidates who need to apply for a visa to study at degree level or above at a Tier 4 Sponsor only need to meet the English language requirements set by the university; they don't need to take a test from the UKVI list of Secure English Language Tests (SELT tests).
[13] In some countries, students with a C1 Advanced certificate gain exemption from the English components of school-leaving exams.
[17] DIBP has extended the recognition of C1 Advanced and they will now accept scores in the exam for Temporary Graduate, Skilled, Former Resident, and Work and Holiday visa.