Exam format and timings
At Elementary stage, GESE exams take the form of a topic discussion and an unscripted conversation with a Trinity examiner.
- Topic discussion — on a prepared topic of the candidate’s choice
- Conversation — about two subjects selected from a list by the examiner
As they progress through the grades, candidates undertake tasks that require a more advanced use of language.
Grade and timings
- Grade 4 — CEFR level A2.2 — 10 minutes
- Grade 5 — CEFR level B1.1 — 10 minutes
- Grade 6 — CEFR level B1.2 — 10 minutes
Useful guides
Exam guide
- GESE Exam Information
This essential booklet provides everything you need to know to prepare students for the exams at every level — the exam format, exam content, procedure, timings and what candidates need to be able to do at every GESE stage and grade.
Teacher guides
- Guide for teachers — Grades 4–6
This guide gives a clear breakdown of the exam requirements and provides some useful preparation techniques for teachers.
- Scheme of Work for teachers
Example 2 week coursework plan and activities for teachers to use and adapt
- Performance descriptors
Candidate Performance Descriptors are used by Trinity examiners to assess each candidate’s performance against the exam requirements.
Booking guidance
- Exam administration
How to book exams and best practice guidance for registered centres
Procedures for online assessment
Related links
- UK visa/SELT information — for GESE as a Secure English Language Tests (SELTS) in the UK
