KET Overview
KET and CEFR
The KET, or Key English Test, is a beginner-level English exam designed by Cambridge in correspondence to the A2 English level outlined in the Common
European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR outlines six levels of language proficiency, ranging from A1 to C2. The KET is considered
the second test in a sequence of assessments that measure English aptitude in the CEFR framework.
A1
A1 Movers
(YLE Movers)
A2
A2 Key
(KET)
B1
B1 Preliminary
(PET)
B2
B2 First
(FCE)
C1
C1 Advanced
(CAE)
C2
C2 Proficiency
(CPE)
For the A2 KET, students can be expected to do the following:
•
Understand use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type
•
Introduce themselves and others and can ask and understand questions about personal details such as where someone lives, people they know
and things they have
•
Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help
A2 Key
The A2 Key consists of three components:
1. Reading and Writing: 60 minutes
Candidates need to be able to understand simple written information such as signs and newspapers, and produce simple written English.
2. Listening: approximately 30 minutes
Candidates need to show they can follow and understand a range of spoken materials such as announcements, when people speak reasonably
slowly.
3. Speaking: 8 to 10 minutes
Candidates take the Speaking test with another candidate or in a group of three. They are tested on their ability to take part in different types of
interaction: with the examiner, with the other candidate and by themselves.
Overall Length
60 minutes
30 minutes
8 to 10 minutes
1 hour 40 minutes
Reading and Writing
Listening
Speaking
Total
Number of Tasks/Parts
7
5
2
Number of Items
32
25
—
The A2 Key is graded on the Cambridge English Scale score of 0 to 150. Candidates whose performance ranges between 100 to 150 will also receive a
Cambridge Assessment English certificate.
Grade A: Cambridge English Scale scores of 140 to 150 (A2 Certification)
Candidates sometimes show ability beyond Level A2. If a candidate achieves a Grade A in their exam, they will receive the Key English Test certificate stating
that they demonstrated ability at Level B1.
Grade B and C: Cambridge English Scale scores of 120 to 139 (A2 Certification)
If a candidate achieves a Grade B or Grade C in their exam, they will receive the Key English Test certificate at Level A2.
CEFR Level A1: Cambridge English Scale scores of 100 to 119 (A1 Certification)
If a candidate’s performance is below Level A2, but falls within Level A1, they will receive a Cambridge English certificate stating that they demonstrated
ability at Level A1
Proficiency and Expectations
Students are expected demonstrate proficiency in the following domains:
Reading and Writing
Understand straightforward information within a known area
Listening and Speaking
Understand simple questions and instructions
Complete forms and write short, simple letters or postcards
related to personal information
Express simple opinions or requirements in a familiar context.
Social and Tourist
Understand straightforward information on food, standard menus,
road signs and messages on automatic cash machines
Complete most forms related to personal information
Understand straightforward directions, provided that these are not
lengthy or complex
Express likes and dislikes in familiar contexts using simple language
Work
Understand most short reports or manuals of a predictable nature
within his/her own area of expertise
Write a short, comprehensible note of request to a colleague or a
known contact in another company
Understand the general meaning of a presentation made at a
conference if the language is simple and backed up by visuals or video
State simple requirements within own job area
Study
Understand the general meaning of a simplified textbook or
article, reading very slowly
Write a very short, simple narrative or description
Understand basic instructions on class time, dates and room numbers
Express simple opinions using expressions such as 'I don’t agree'
Overall