KET stands for Key English Test. It’s a basic English language test for both written and spoken English administered by Cambridge ESOL.
KET is at level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. At level A2 candidates will be able 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.
2 What are the benefits of taking the KET exam?
KET is ideal for people who want to get an internationally recognised certificate of competence in basic English communication skills.
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's 'Can Do' skills give you the confidence to use English in real situations.
3 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.
4 How do I prepare for the KET?
In addition to following a KET course with an English language teacher, it is also useful to take some KET practice tests so that you will know what to expect in the real exam. If you practise the different parts of the exam individually and check your scores, you can then see the exam parts which you need to practise most. Overall scores on practice exams can also help to give you an idea of how you might perform in the red exam.
Interactive practice tests on iTests follow the same format, questions and timing as the real exam so that you get a realistic exam experience. iTests practice tests are divided into small parts so you can choose which exam parts you need to practise. Your personal score chart shows your performance so you can check your own performance. There are even some writing questions with automatic marking allowing you to practise for the writing part of the exam and receive your grades immediately.
5 How do I sign up for KET?
Speak to your teacher or language school about how to enrol for the KET. If you're not studying English at the moment you can sign up for the KET exam at your nearest Cambridge ESOL test centre. There are more than 2000 of these test centres all over the world. To find the one nearest to you visit the Cambridge ESOL website.
6 How much does it cost?
KET fees can vary from country to country. To find out more information, contact your nearest Cambridge ESOL test centre.
7 Where can I take KET?
You can take the KET at any authorised Cambridge ESOL test centre. There are more than 2000 of these test centres all over the world. To find the one nearest to you, visit the Cambridge ESOL website.