Cambridge | A2 Key for Schools

New information for candidates booklet

Download the Information for candidates booklet, with lots of exam preparation advice, tips and links to resources:

Free Computer-based sample tests - current sample tests

You will need to use the Firefox browser to access these sample tests. You can download Firefox for free. Once downloaded, open Firefox and use the links below to view the tests.

Watch the tutorial before you start to help you understand what you need to do.

Check your answers as you do the test. Once the test has finished you will not be able to check them.

• Reading and Writing sample test
• Listening sample test

Use the answer keys below

• Reading and Writing answer key (PDF)
• Listening answer key (PDF)

Free Digital sample tests - effective as of April 1, 2024

New sample tests will be implemented for exams beginning April 1, 2024. Cambridge will upgrade from computer-based exams to an improved digital platform - Cambridge English Qualifications Digital. Find out more about digital assessment and its many benefits.

Watch the tutorial to understand how to complete an A2 Key for Schools digital exam.

Listening Time: approximately 30 minutes

• A2 Key for Schools Digital Listening Sample Test (online)
• A2 Key for Schools Listening Sample 1 answer key (PDF)
• A2 Key for Schools Listening Sample 1 tapescript (PDF)

Reading and Writing Time: 1 hour

• A2 Key for Schools Digital Reading and Writing Sample Test (online)
• A2 Key for Schools Reading Sample 1 answer key (PDF)

Free Paper-based sample test

Download sample papers for A2 Key for Schools

Vocabulary resources

A guide to the vocabulary for the KEY and KEY for Schools exams (PDF)

Speaking resources

• A2 Key for Schools speaking test - Luca and Federica (video)
• Speaking test video examiner comments (PDF)

Free online activities

We have activities for reading, writing, listening, grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. Go to free online activities.

Games and social media

Games, videos and social networking are all great ways to improve your English. Find out what is available from Cambridge Assessment English.