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Why take the KET exam
- It will help you assess your progress in English. By taking the Key (KET) exam you will become familiar with the format of other Cambridge English exams, which will help you when taking higher level exams.
- The Key tests your practical knowledge of English at a basic level and tests all four language skills - reading, listening, writing and speaking. Grammar and vocabulary skills are also assessed. This knowledge is tested using materials based on everyday situations.
- Each candidate receives a written report showing the results achieved in each part of the examination. If you pass the exam, you will receive a Cambridge English Language Assessment certificate that is valid for life.
- Many institutions in the Czech Republic also require or take into account the KET certificate in the CV:
list of institutions -
Content of the exam
Reading and Writing (60 minutes)
The candidate's ability to read and understand texts of various types, such as signs, brochures, newspapers or magazines is tested, in which he/she should be able to understand the main meaning of the text. In addition, candidates fill in the gaps in simple sentences and write 2 short texts, one of about 25 words (an email) and the other of 35 words (a story). Reading and writing correspond to 50% of the total score.
Listening (30 minutes)
This part of the exam assesses the understanding of the main idea of the recordings, such as monologues, dialogues or advertisements with topics from everyday life, which are always delivered at a moderate pace.
Speaking (8-10 minutes)
The candidate's reaction, expression of agreement or disagreement and ability to reason with the examiner and the other candidate in an interview on simple topics are tested.
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Rating
The threshold for passing the exam is 100 points out of 150 in all parts of the exam. Candidates who achieve a score of 100 - 119 will be awarded an A1 level certificate.
140 - 150 = Grade A (Corresponds to B1 level)
120 - 139 = Grade B a C
100 - 119 = CEFR Level A1
0 - 99 = FailSee this document for more
- Information materials and sample test
A2 Key
Cambridge English Key (KET) confirms basic English proficiency and is therefore designed for more advanced beginners. A candidate for the Key exam can use the English language in a limited way in basic life situations. The exam can be taken after 180 - 200 hours of instruction.
Successful completion of the test confirms proficiency in English at A2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The exam is also available in a "FOR SCHOOLS" version.
New exam format in 2020: here
From 2026 the paper-based A2 KEY will be withdrawn and only A2 Key Digital will remain available.
Candidates can still take the A2 KEY for Schools in a paper-based version.