A2 Key (KET)

A2 Key shows that you can use English in simple, everyday situations. For pupils it is the first exam that tests all four skills, and it prepares them for B1 Preliminary and B2 First.

Apply for A2 Key See the dates

Level A1: 100–119
Grade C: 120–132
Grade B: 133–139
Grade A: 140–150

Grades A, B and C are passes.

Level: A2
Length: about 2 hours
Format: paper-based or digital
Speaking test: in a pair with one other candidate, with two examiners
Fee: €119
Results: digital exam: 5 to 10 working days; paper-based: 4 to 6 weeks
Recommended for: pupils aged 12 to 13 (grade 6 or 7 of primary school) and adults who are just starting

What the certificate shows

The A2 Key certificate is internationally recognised proof of basic communication skills in English. The exam tests reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Paper-based A2 Key is being withdrawn at the end of 2026. A2 Key Digital stays, and A2 Key for Schools can still be taken in both formats.

A candidate who passes the exam can

understand and use basic expressions and phrases
understand simple written English and write a short message
introduce themselves and answer basic questions about themselves
communicate with speakers of English at a basic level

What the exam consists of

Paper	Time	Content	Share of the result
Reading and Writing	60 minutes	7 parts, 32 questions	50 %
Listening	30 minutes	5 parts, 25 questions	25 %
Speaking	8–10 minutes per pair	2 parts	25 %

A2 Key for Schools

A2 Key for Schools is the same level and the same exam format, with topics suited to pupils. The certificate confirms the same level.

A pupil with glasses pinning her work to a board

Who we recommend it for

For pupils who have been learning English for a few years, A2 Key gives a first “grown-up” certificate and the experience of a real exam before the harder levels. For adults it confirms that they have mastered the basics.

The next step is B1 Preliminary.

How to prepare

Cambridge reckons on about 180 to 200 hours of guided learning from beginner level to reach A2. Sample tests are the easiest way to get to know the format.

Pupils usually prepare at their language school: find a preparation centre.
Not sure whether A2 is the right level? Check your level with the free test.

Official Cambridge pages: Exam page, Sample tests and preparation materials

Dates and applying

Applications are accepted until the closing date shown with each session. After the closing date you can still apply up to ten days before the exam, for a late entry fee of €33, if there are places left.

No session is open for this exam at the moment. Write to us and we will tell you when we expect the next one. Write to us

All dates and fees

Questions about the exam

What is the difference between A2 Key and A2 Key for Schools?

The level and the format are the same. The for Schools version has topics that are familiar to pupils, and the standard version is written for adults. The certificate confirms the same level.

What if my score is not high enough for level A2?

With a score of 100 to 119 you receive a certificate that confirms level A1. With a score of 140 to 150 the certificate confirms level B1.

When do the results arrive?

For the digital exam, results are available 5 to 10 working days after the exam. For the paper-based exam it is usually 4 to 6 weeks. You see your result on the Cambridge website for candidates, using the details from your Confirmation of Entry. More on the Results and certificates page.

How long is the certificate valid?

A Cambridge certificate does not expire. Even so, individual institutions decide for themselves how old a result they accept, so check with the place where you will hand in the certificate.