Key English Test
WHAT IS KET?
The Key English Test is an Elementary level exam and the first level of Cambridge exams in general English. This exam is set at Level A2 of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework for modern languages
WHO IS THE KET EXAM FOR AND WHY SHOULD I TAKE IT?
The KET exam is suitable for learners with an elementary level of English. Candidates should be able to understand the context of simple texts, understand notices and simple directions and communicate in familiar situations.
KET is based on language used in real life and most social situations, such as travelling.
KET is helpful for anyone who wishes to take PET or FCE at a later stage.
a KET certificate is valid for life. You will not need to take the exam again
KET is a truly international certificate, recognised around the world for business and study purposes
thousands of employers, universities and government departments officially recognise KET as a basic qualification in English
WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE EXAM?
KET has 3 papers:
Reeading 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.
YOUR RESULT
Reading and Writing carries 50% of the total marks for KET, while Listening and Speaking both carry 25% of the marks each.
Candidates can access their results through the Cambridge ESOL Results Online website 8 weeks after the exam.
There are two Pass grades, Pass and Pass with Merit and two Fail grades Narrow Fail and Fail.
There is no minimum pass mark for individual papers. The grade is based on the total score of all 3 papers.
Certificates are awarded to candidates who achieve Pass grades and are despatch approximately 4 weeks after the results are issued.
