Use of English Practice Tests
Practise grammar in context with free tests at B1, B2 and C1. Every question is multiple choice with four options, either as a gap in a text or in a single sentence.
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What Is a Use of English Test?
A Use of English test evaluates how well you can apply English grammar and vocabulary in realistic contexts rather than in isolated drills. Use of English is also part of Cambridge English exams such as B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE); our tests are grammar practice, not past papers in that exam format. Not sure which CEFR level corresponds to your target exam score? See our IELTS, TOEFL & Duolingo score comparison table.
On this page you will find six free tests each at B1, B2 and C1. Each test has 15 multiple-choice questions with four options: some tests are a text with gaps, others are single sentences. They cover the grammar each level needs, such as tenses, conditionals, modal verbs, the passive, reported speech, relative and participle clauses and inversion, and every test links to the grammar lessons it uses.
Combine these exercises with our grammar lessons, vocabulary quizzes, reading comprehension tests, and listening practice for well-rounded exam preparation at any level.
Use of English Exercise Types
Two question formats, both multiple choice with four options.
Single Sentences
Read a sentence with a gap and choose the right answer from four options. Each question tests one grammar point, such as a tense, a conditional or a modal verb.
Text with Gaps
Read a short passage with 15 gaps and choose the right answer for each from four options. This tests grammar in context, across a whole text.
Use of English — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Use of English part of a Cambridge exam?
The Use of English paper tests your ability to apply grammar and vocabulary accurately in context. It appears in Cambridge B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), and C2 Proficiency (CPE) exams. Instead of testing rules in isolation, the questions ask you to complete real sentences and passages — making it one of the most challenging sections for ESL learners.
What is the difference between the two test formats?
Both are multiple choice with four options. In single-sentence tests each question is a separate sentence with one gap. In text-with-gaps tests the 15 gaps are in one passage, so you also need to follow the context. There are no questions where you write the missing word yourself.
How do I know which CEFR level to choose for Use of English practice?
If you are unsure, take our free English Level Test first — the grammar test has a 30-minute time limit and places you on the CEFR scale (A1–C2). Our Use of English tests are at B1, B2 and C1: B1 covers structures like the present perfect, conditionals and the passive, B2 moves on to mixed conditionals, participle clauses and inversion, and C1 covers cleft sentences, the subjunctive and formal register.
Are these Use of English practice tests completely free?
Yes. Every Use of English test on ESL-Tests.com is 100% free with no registration required. You can practise as many times as you like, review your answers after each test, and retake exercises to track your improvement.
How can Use of English exercises help me prepare for IELTS or Cambridge FCE?
They train the grammar these exams rely on: reading a sentence or passage and choosing the form that fits. They are not in the Cambridge Use of English paper format, and IELTS has no separate grammar section, so use them alongside exam-format practice for your test.
What grammar topics are covered in Use of English tests?
The tests cover the grammar each level needs: at B1, for example, the present perfect, conditionals, modal verbs, the passive and reported questions; at B2, mixed conditionals, participle clauses, inversion and register; at C1, cleft sentences, the subjunctive and advanced passives. Each test lists the grammar topics it covers and links to the lessons.
How often should I practise Use of English exercises?
For steady improvement, aim for two to three short practice sessions per week. Combine Use of English tests with grammar lessons and vocabulary quizzes so you reinforce the rules you are applying in context. Consistent, spaced practice is far more effective than cramming before an exam.
Can I use these tests on my phone or tablet?
Yes. All tests on ESL-Tests.com are fully responsive and work on any device — desktop, tablet, or smartphone, so you can practise Use of English exercises on the go.
Continue Practising English
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