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A2 Key (KET) for Schools

Level:
A2
Language:
English
Frequency:
Multiple exam administrations

A2 Key (KET) for Schools is a Cambridge Assessment English Qualification targeted at the pre-intermediate level of the CEFR (A2 level). It is made up of three parts and designed to prove that students can successfully use the English language to communicate in simple situations. A2 Key (KET) for Schools is officially recognized by universities, employers, and governments around the world.

A2 Key (KET) for Schools, also known as KET for Schools, is a pre-intermediate qualification. It demonstrates that a person has achieved a good foundation in English and can use the language to communicate in simple situations.

It is targeted at Level A2 on the CEFR scale. Candidates can choose to take A2 Key (KET) for Schools as either a paper-based or a computer-based exam.

A2 Key (KET) for Schools is aimed at learners who want to:

  • understand and use basic phrases and expressions
  • introduce and answer basic questions about themselves
  • interact with English speakers who talk slowly and clearly
  • write short, simple notes.

A2 Key (KET) for Schools follows exactly the same format and level as A2 Key (KET), also known as Key English Test (KET). The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in the particular test have been particularly targeted to the interests and experience of school pupils.

A2 Key (KET) for Schools is recognized by the private sector. It is also officially recognized in Greece by the state (ASEP/Supreme Council for Civil Personnel Selection) as a B1 level certification of English language competence (Cambridge English Scale overall score: 120-139).

A2 Key (KET) for Schools is recognized by a wide range of companies and educational institutions around the world.



PAPER 1: READING AND WRITING

Duration: 1 hour

Number of parts: 7 parts

(Candidates write their answers in the answer sheet using pencil)

Number of questions: 32 questions in total

Marks: 50% of total

Part 1 - Reading (6 questions -1 mark for each correct answer)

Six short emails, notices, signs, or text messages and three sentences next to each one (A, B, C). Candidates have to choose which sentence matches the meaning of the email, notice, sign or text message.

Part 2 - Reading (7 questions -1 mark for each correct answer)

Seven questions and three short texts on the same topic. Candidates have to match each question to one of the texts.

Part 3 - Reading (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

A longer text, for example, a simplified newspaper or magazine article and five multiple-choice questions with three options (A, B, C). Candidates have to choose the correct answer.

Part 4 - Reading (6 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

A short text with six numbered spaces and three words provided for each gap. Candidates have to decide which of the three words belongs in each gap.

Part 5 - Reading (6 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

Candidates have to fill in six gaps in a text or texts using single words        

Part 6 - Writing (1 question - a maximum of 15 marks available)

Candidates have to write a message of 25 words or more (e.g. a note or email) in response to information given.   

Part 7 - Writing (1 question - a maximum of 15 marks available)

Candidates have to write a short story of 35 words or more based on three picture prompts.

PAPER 2: LISTENING

Duration: 30 minutes, including 6 minutes' transfer time

Number of parts: 5 parts

(Candidates write their answers in the answer sheet using pencil)

Number of questions: 25 questions

Marks: 25% of total

Part 1 (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer.)

There are five short recordings, each with a question and three images. Candidates listen to the text and choose the correct visual image.

Part 2 (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer.)

Candidates should listen to a longer text, identify specific information and only write down ONE word in the gaps (a number, date, or a time) in note form.      

Part 3 (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

An informal conversation and five 3-option questions. Candidates have to listen to the conversation and choose the right answer (A, B or C) for each question.   

Part 4 (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

Five short monologues or dialogues, each with a scene setter, a question and three options. Candidates listen to the recording and choose the option which best answers each question.

Part 5 (5 questions - 1 mark for each correct answer)

A longer conversation between two people who know each other. Candidates have to match two lists of items by identifying simple information in the conversation.

PAPER 3: SPEAKING

Duration: 8-10 minutes per pair of candidates

Format: 2 examiners - 2-3 candidates

Number of parts: 2 parts

Marks: 25% of total

Part 1

Conversation with the examiner. The examiner asks some general questions to each candidate in turn. Candidates respond to the examiner, giving factual or personal information.

Part 2

The examiner gives candidates some picture prompts on a topic, e.g. holidaysand candidates talk to each other, comparing, describing, and expressing opinions. 


Register online for your exams through ORFEAS, our online registration system. Find an examination center close to home from a choice of 100 locations throughout Greece and abroad, and complete your application online with your debit, pre-paid or credit card.

You will receive all the details for your upcoming exam via email in a single document that you can save, print and take with you on the day of your test. You will also be sent updates on the status of your application and useful support materials. Expect invitations to webinars for tips and strategies that will help you prepare effectively for the exam.

The ORFEAS registration system does away with print application forms and visits to the bank. Start and complete your registration online in a few simple steps. Use your home computer, tablet or smartphone to apply for your exam.


A2 Key results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale. Candidates will receive a separate score for each of the 4 skills (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) on their Statement of Results which give them a clear understanding of their performance. These four scores are averaged to give them an overall result for the exam. They will also be given a grade and Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level.

For A2 Key, the following scores will be used to report results:

Cambridge English Scale Score

Grade

CEFR level

140 -150

Grade A

B1

133–139

Grade B

A2

120–132

Grade C

A2

100–119

Level A1

A1

Scores between 100 and 119 are also reported for B1 Preliminary. Candidates will not receive a certificate, but their Cambridge English Scale score will be shown on their Statement of Results. Scores below 100 are not reported, so candidates will not receiver a certificate nor a score for this examination.

The following factsheet can be used as a guide to help teachers and candidates understand how Cambridge English scale works. This information is better applied when using official Cambridge English practice tests.


How can I apply?

Use this link to enter the ORFEAS online registration system. From there, follow the steps as suggested. Choose your exam, date and venue and then provide your personal details. In the last step you will be asked to pay with your card of choice. All the information you will need for the day of the exam will arrive in your inbox via email and SMS.

What if I have a question about the procedure?

If you have any questions about the procedure, even as you complete the steps in the process, contact us on 2103680000 for assistance. We have staff available from 9 am - 7 pm on weekdays to help you complete the registration process and answer your questions.

Can I see the status of my registration after I have applied?

Once you complete your registration you will be sent updates on the status of your application. For example, any changes to the date of the examination, if these occur, will be communicated to you via email, SMS or telephone by our support team.


Cambridge English Rescoring Procedure 

Candidates who wish to have their exam rescored may do so at a fee, as follows: 

Stage 1

1. Candidates submit the appropriate Rescoring Request Form requesting a full clerical re-check of all papers of the examination they participated in.

2. Requests are sent by the Hellenic American Union Center for Examinations and Certifications to Cambridge Assessment English.

3. Candidates receive by e-mail the result upon completion of the clerical re-check procedure.

Stage 2

4. In the case that their results do not change after the full clerical re-check, candidates may submit the appropriate Rescoring Request Form requesting a re-mark of papers.

5. Requests are sent by the Hellenic American Union Center for Examinations and Certifications to Cambridge Assessment English.

6. Candidates receive by e-mail the rescoring result upon completion of the rescoring procedure.

Please note the following:

  • Dates of submission of Rescoring Request Forms vary for each examinations administration period. After these dates, no rescore requests are accepted.
  • Candidates wishing to request Stage 2 rescoring (re-mark of papers) must have completed and received their results for Stage 1 (clerical re-check), before requesting  Stage 2 rescoring.
  • Stage 2 rescoring (re-mark of papers) includes a review of the listening paper where available but does not apply to any speaking test component. 
  • Any scores resulting after rescoring at Stage 2 are final and irrevocable.
  • In the case that a rescoring request leads to a change of result, rescore fees will be refunded. 
Cambridge English Rescoring Procedure (April-May-June 2024)

Please find information regarding the Cambridge examination results announcement expected dates here.



Schedule

  • Cambridge Assessment English
Exam Date: Exam Administration: Test Centers: Registration Period:
Registration Period:

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