Cambridge KET / A2 Key
A2 Key is a Cambridge English qualification at elementary level (CEFR A2). This page outlines its structure, components, weightings, and practical test-day notes.
Quick facts
- CEFR level: A2 (elementary)
- Papers: 3 (Reading & Writing, Listening, Speaking)
- Total time: ~1 hour 40 minutes (excluding Speaking scheduling)
- Format: Paper-based and digital; paper-based A2 Key (adult version) is withdrawn after the last session in June 2026. A2 Key for Schools remains available in both formats.
Components
Reading and Writing are assessed together in one paper. Separate cards below describe what each skill tests, plus timing, weightings, and task types.
Reading
Tests understanding of short notices, signs, and simple factual texts in everyday contexts.
Timing: 1 hour (combined with Writing) · Weighting: 50% (R+W combined)
Parts: 9 parts, 56 questions. Examples: matching sentences to notices, multiple-choice on short texts, multiple-matching, spelling tasks.
Writing
Tests ability to produce short texts such as notes, emails, and postcards with given information.
Timing: 1 hour (combined with Reading) · Weighting: 50% (R+W combined)
Parts: Open-cloze (gap-filling), information-transfer, and guided writing tasks.
Listening
Tests understanding of announcements, short conversations, and monologues at slower speeds.
Timing: ~30 minutes (includes transfer time) · Weighting: 25%
Parts: 5 parts, 25 questions. Examples: multiple-choice on short recordings, matching people to information, form-filling while listening.
Speaking
Tests ability to take part in basic interaction: answering questions and exchanging information with a partner.
Timing: 8–10 minutes per pair · Weighting: 25%
Parts: 2 parts. Part 1: examiner-led questions. Part 2: candidates exchange information.
Scoring & results
Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. You do not need to pass each paper separately; the overall grade is based on the weighted average. Individual skill scores (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) are provided. Digital exams typically return results more quickly than paper-based.
Common candidate weakness patterns
Typical patterns observed at A2 Key level:
- Misreading short notices or signs; focusing on one word instead of the full message
- Spelling errors in gap-fill and writing tasks; confusion between similar words
- Missing key information in listening due to distraction or unfamiliar accents
- Short or incomplete written responses; failing to include all required points
- Speaking: one-word answers or failure to expand when prompted
- Time pressure on Reading & Writing; rushing through the combined paper
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