Key English Test (Cambridge)



KET is Cambridge ESOL's exam which recognizes the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken English at a basic level.

There are two versions of KET available: KET and KET for Schools. Both follow exactly the same format and the level of the question papers is identical. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in KET for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests and experience of school pupils.



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 this describes your skills now, or describes the level of skills you are working towards, then KET is the right exam for you.



What will KET do for you ?



Cambridge ESOL is a department of the world-famous and historic University of Cambridge. Attaining one of its certificates is an achievement and a reward in itself. However, there are many other benefits to taking KET:

  • A KET certificate is valid for life. You will not need to take the exam again
  • KET is a truly international certificate, recognized around the world for business and study purposes
  • Thousands of employers, universities and government departments officially recognize KET as a basic qualification in English
  • Although KET is a basic exam, it offers a chance to find out your strengths and weaknesses in using English, and gives you a pathway to higher qualifications such as the Preliminary English Test (PET) and First Certificate in English (FCE)
  • KET's 'Can Do' skills give you the confidence to use English in real situations.
What will taking KET help you do ?



KET is at Level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) ? an internationally recognized benchmark of language ability. The framework uses six levels to describe language ability from A1 to C2. 'Can Do' statements have been used to describe these levels in terms of real language skills.



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 involved in taking the KET exam ?



KET has three papers:



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.



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