Key English Test (KET)

What is KET?

The Cambridge Key English Test (KET) is the first level of Cambridge exams in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). It is an elementary level exam, set at Level A2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework for modern languages. KET recognises the ability to cope with everyday written and spoken communications at a basic level.

KET enables candidates to demonstrate a level of English that is useful when travelling in English speaking countries. Successful candidates receive a certificate awarded by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. All candidates also receive a statement of results, showing how they have performed in each of the three papers.

KET is provided by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations - a department of the University of Cambridge in England. KET is part of the Main Suite of Cambridge English examinations, which is closely linked to the Council of Europe's Common European Framework for modern languages (CEF). 

Who is KET for?

KET is designed for learners who have basic English skills of the kind needed when travelling in a foreign country. Candidates should be able to understand the main points of simple texts, to communicate in the most familiar situations and to understand short, standard notices and simple spoken directions.

KET is taken by more than 40,000 people each year, in more than 60 countries. 

KET is based on language used in real life situations and covers the four language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking. It provides an assessment of practical skillsand encourages the development of abilities which can be used while travelling, as well as in study and working situations.

Although the KET examinations are at a relatively basic level, they provide a detailed assessment of the candidate's strengths and weaknesses. This allows further study to be plannedand provides a valuable introduction to language examinations.

KET is an ideal first step for those wishing to progress towards the Preliminary English Test and the other Cambridge ESOL exams. 

KET has three papers Reading and Writing | Listening | Speaking

Each paper is returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment, except the Speaking Test, which is conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face to face. All examiners are accredited by Cambridge ESOL.

Reading and Writing (Paper 1) 1 hour 10 minutes

The Reading and Writing paper assesses the ability to read and understand factual texts taken from signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. Candidates need to be able to understand the main messagesand have stratfor exampleies for dealing with unfamiliar words and structures.

Candidates are assessed on their ability to complete gaps in simple texts, transfer information to formsand complete an everyday writing task, such as writing a short note or message of around 20-25 words, to demonstrate control of structure, vocabulary, spelling and punctuation.

Listening (Paper 2) 25 minutes

The Listening paper assesses the ability to understand recorded material such as announcements and monologues, delivered at a moderate paceand to understand factual information in the recordings.

Speaking (Paper 3) 8-10 minutes

The Speaking Test assesses the ability to interact in conversational English with an examiner and with another candidate. Candidates need to be able to answer and ask questions about themselves and to talk freely about their likes and dislikes.

Candidates normally take the Speaking Test in pairs. 

What to do next...

Find out more about KET

Information is available from our centre for example, regarding publishers that produce textbooks and other resources that can help learners to prepare for the examination.

Talk to your teacher

Most candidates take a preparation course before entering for the exam, but this is not compulsory. If you are studying English at the moment, speak to your teacher about preparing for KET. If you are not studying at the moment, our centre will be able to advise you.

Register for the exam

If you wish to Register for the exam please click here (NB. entries cannot be made directly to Cambridge) 

Examination dates for 2008

How much does this exam cost and how can I apply for it?

From June 2008 the KET examination will cost £56.

The closing entry date for the KET exam in November is 10th October 2008 and the closing entry date for the exam in December is 24th October 2008 . Entries received after this date will be subject to a £12.00 Late Entry Fee.

To apply for this exam, please download and complete the application form and send it together with your payment to London Crest Open Centre. Please click here for contact details.

If you wish to pay by credit/debit card, please telephone us on +44 (0)20 8952 8040. Click here to download the application form (this may take a few minutes to download).

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