Guides

Exam format and timings - Initial stage

At Initial stage, GESE exams take the form of an unscripted conversation with a Trinity examiner. The examiner uses visual materials to engage the candidate and create an authentic conversation to test their speaking and listening skills.

Unscripted conversation - using visual prompts to engage the candidate

Grade and timings

Grade 1 - CEFR level Pre A1 - 5 minutes
Grade 2 - CEFR level A1 - 6 minutes
Grade 3 - CEFR level A2.1 - 7 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 1-3 - young learners
Guide for teachers - Grades 1-3 - adult learners
These guides give a clear breakdown of the exam requirements and provide some useful preparation techniques for teachers.

Performance descriptors
Candidate Performance Descriptors are used by Trinity examiners to assess each candidate’s performance against the exam requirements.

Booking guidance