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What is A2 Key (KET)?
A2 Key (KET) is an official Cambridge English qualification at pre-intermediate level. It is targeted at Level A2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework for languages.
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
Who takes the official A2 Key (KET) Cambridge exam in Switzerland?
In Switzerland the official A2 Key (KET) is mainly used by secondary school students which usually take it at the end of the 3rd year at secondary school. In some cases, strong primary school students with the necessary background take A2 Key (KET) at the end of primary school. However, teenagers and younger children usually opt for the “for Schools” version of the test. There are also adults who decide to prepare for and take the A2 Key (KET) Exam, mainly if they have not acquired any English language skills during their school time or career.
How is A2 Key (KET) recognised?
As A2 Key (KET) is mainly taken by teenagers and young adults, it shows their ability and determination of striving and working towards a goal. Therefore, holding an official A2 Key (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 |
9 parts/ 56 questions |
50% | Shows you can understand simple written information such as signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. |
|
Listening |
5 parts/ 25 questions |
25% | Requires you to be able to understand announcements and other spoken material when people speak reasonably slowly. |
|
Speaking |
2 parts | 25% | Shows you can take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. Your Speaking test will be conducted face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable. |
Please click here for further details about the exam format.
A2 Key (KET) has undergone a thorough review to ensure that the exams continue to remain relevant to the needs of schools and learners. Have a look at the summary. The revision is now complete and the updated exam will start being used for exam sessions in January 2020.
Flexible Test Options
The A2 Key (KET) exam can be taken as a paper-based (PB) or computer-based (CB) exam. The exam content is exactly the same, it is only the delivery mode (paper-based / computer-based) which is different. The exam dates and locations vary between CB and PB exams.
Registration, Dates and Prices
Exams are offered all over Switzerland, however, locations and dates may vary. Please check all available A2 Key (KET) exam dates and prices by clicking on the following link:
Overview exam dates and prices
How can a student prepare for A2 Key (KET)?
There are many schools across Switzerland which offer preparation courses for Cambridge English exams. These schools can be found on our recommended school list.
In our online shop there are various preparation materials which can enhance the exam preparation and support any student in his/her endeavour to succeed when taking a Cambridge English Exam.
Supporting Material
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Key Handbook for Teacher order here The focus is on each paper, including content and advice on preparation. |
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Common mistakes at KET order here Based on real mistakes identified in analysis of over 10,000 exam showing students how to avoid the most common mistakes |
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Key 6 Authentic Examination Papers order here This set of tests provides exam preparation, allowing candidates to familiarise themselves with the content of the Cambridge English Key exam and to practise exam techniques. |
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Speaking Test Preparation Pack order here The Speaking Test Preparation Pack provides an introduction to the particular exam and shows one complete exam |
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Official Past Papers order here These official Past Papers are made of original exam papers from previous years and can be used in order to practise for the KET exam. |
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Online Practice Test order here Authentic pratice tests now available online using all new test material from the organisation that produces the exams, Cambridge English Language Assessment. |