Key English Test (KET)

The first of the Cambridge ESOL general English exams, KET recognises that you have the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken English at a basic level.

Is KET for you?

• Do you have basic English skills?
• Can you understand simple written English?
• Can you communicate in familiar situations?
• Can you understand short notices and simple spoken directions?

If you are working towards acquiring those skills and your level of English currently permits you to do approximately those things, then KET is probably the right exam for you.

What level is KET?

KET is at Level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

At A2 level, typical users can be expected to:

• understand and use everyday expressions and basic phrases
• introduce themselves and answer basic questions about your personal details
• interact with English speakers who talk slowly and clearly.

Your preparation for KET will give you these kinds of practical language skills.

What is on the KET exam?

There are three papers on the KET exam:

Reading and Writing 1 hour 10 minutes
You will need to be able to understand simple written information such as signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. You will also have to fill gaps in simple sentences and write a short piece of around 25 words.

Listening 30 minutes
You need to show your ability to understand announcements and other spoken material when spoken reasonably slowly.

Speaking Up to 10 minutes
You will need to demonstrate you can take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. Speaking tests are normally held with two candidates.

Find out more

Past papers, etc | FAQs about KET | KET resources for teachers