Cambridge English: Key (KET)

Cambridge English : Key (KET)

Cambridge English: Key (KET) for Schools is elementary level exam and the first level of the University of Cambridge exams in general English. The test demonstrates that pupils are able to communicate at a basic level in English. This exam is set at Level A2 of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework for modern languages.

Preparing for the test equips learners with real-life language skills that can be used in everyday communication. The exam has been designed for students aged between 11 and 14 and uses topics specifically targeted at the interests and experience of school pupils.

Key English Test (KET) for Schools can provide pupils with an elementary level English language qualification that shows the learner can understand basic written English, communicate in familiar situations and ask and respond to questions about simple spoken directions.

At Level A2, typical users can be expected to:

  • Understand and use everyday expressions and basic phrases.
  • Introduce themselves and answer basic questions about their personal details.
  • Interact with English speakers who talk slowly and clearly -write short, simple notes.

How is Cambridge English: Key for Schools (KET) recognised?

As Cambridge English: Key for Schools (KET) is mainly taken by teenagers and young adults and shows their ability and determination of striving and working towards a goal. Therefore, holding a Cambridge English: Key for Schools (KET) certificate will enhance any CV or application for an apprenticeship or job.

Format of the exam

Paper Content Marks (% of Total) Purpose
Reading and Writing
(1 hour and 10 minutes)
9 parts / 56 questions 50% Shows a student can understand simple written information such as signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. They will also have to fill gaps in simple sentences and write a short message or note.
Listening
(30 minutes, including 8 minutes' transer time)
5 parts / 25 questions 25% Requires a student to be able to understand announcements and other spoken material when people speak reasonably slowly.speak reasonably slowly
Speaking
(8-10 minutes per pair of candidates)
2 parts 25% Tests a student’s ability to take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. Their Speaking test will be conducted face to face with one or two other students. This makes their test more realistic and more reliable

Result :

You will receive a separate score for each of the four skills (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking). These scores are averaged to give you an overall result for the exam.

Grade Score
Pass with Distinction Between 140 and 150
Pass with Merit Between 133 and 139
Pass Between 120 and 132
Council of Europe Level A2 Between 100 and 119