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A2 Key, formerly known as the Key English Test (KET), is the elementary level qualification in the Cambridge English Qualifications. It demonstrates that you can communicate in basic English in everyday situations and is the ideal foundation for building your language skills for future work or study.

What is the Cambridge A2 Key exam?

The A2 Key is an elementary level qualification (Level A2 on the CEFR). It proves you have mastered the basics of English and are ready to move toward more advanced certifications.

Recognition in Romania: This exam is a vital asset for students. It is recognized as a linguistic competency for those applying to bilingual and intensive classes if passed with a grade of Pass, Pass with Merit, or Pass with Distinction.

Two Versions, One Certificate:

  • A2 Key: Suitable for adults and professionals looking to prove their basic English proficiency.
  • A2 Key for Schools: Specifically designed for school-age learners with topics tailored to their interests, leading to the exact same international certificate.

What skills will you develop?

Preparing for your Cambridge A2 Key path helps you gain the confidence to handle basic interactions in an English speaking environment. By reaching the A2 level English, you will learn how to:

  • Ask and answer simple questions about yourself and others.
  • Understand announcements and instructions when people speak slowly and clearly.
  • Express your opinion about something you have read or heard.
  • Write short, basic texts and understand simple written messages.

A2 Key exam format and duration

The A2 Key exam structure is designed to provide a clear and fair assessment of your ability through three papers. At the British Council, we offer the A2 Key in both paper based and digital formats. We recommend the Digital format for candidates who want faster results available in just two weeks and a modern testing experience on our secure computers. Check A2 Key current pricing, specific dates and more.

Reading, Writing, and Listening papers are taken on the same day. To ensure a natural and professional assessment, the Speaking exam is conducted face to face with two examiners and one other candidate.

Unlike the Young Learners suite, the A2 Key is a graded exam. Your performance is reported on the Cambridge English Scale. A score of 120 or above is required to pass and receive an A2 certificate. High achievers may receive a certificate stating they demonstrated ability at the B1 level. Learn more at Your Cambridge results.

Part Time allowed Marks (% of total) Focus
Reading and Writing 60 min 50% Understanding main points and structure.
Listening 30 min 25% Following spoken material.
Speaking 8-10 min per pair 25% Face-to-face interaction.

Expert preparation and support for A2 Key

Registering for your exam with the British Council ensures you have the high quality guidance needed for a successful result. We offer a suite of resources designed for top performance, whether you are an adult learner or a school age student:

  • Official Sample Papers: Familiarise yourself with the A2 Key exam format and timing using our free A2 Key exam past papers and A2 Key for schools practice materials.
  • The Parents Guide: Review  our parents guide for advice on how to support school age learners as they take their first steps into formal English qualifications and manage exam stress.
  • Digital Resources: Improve your A2 level English skills 24/7 with our LearnEnglish websites and mobile apps featuring over 2,000 interactive activities.

Explore A2 Key preparation materials

Frequently Asked Questions about Cambridge A2 KET

The A2 Key and A2 Key for Schools exam structure, level of difficulty, and final certificate are the same. The only difference is that the A2 Key for Schools version uses topics specifically tailored to the interests of school age candidates. Both are equally recognised by universities and employers worldwide.

No. Your A2 Key scoring is an average of the scores you achieve in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. If you perform very well in one area, it can balance out a lower score in another, provided your overall average reaches 120 on the Cambridge English Scale.

A passing grade for the A2 Key starts at 120. Scores are reported as follows:

  • 140–150 (Pass with Distinction): You demonstrated ability at Level B1.
  • 133–139 (Pass with Merit) or 120–132 (Pass): You have successfully achieved the A2 level.
  • 100–119 (Level A1): You will receive a certificate recognising English ability at Level A1.
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