KET is the first level Cambridge ESOL exam, at level A2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework. KET recognises your ability to cope with everyday written and spoken communications at a basic level. This exam presents real life situations and it is designed for learners who have basic English skills, of the kind needed when travelling in English speaking countries.

Test format
KET has three papers:

• Reading & 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.

Paper 1 – Reading and Writing (70 minutes)
This paper tests your ability to understand basic newspaper articles, messages, notes and signs. You will be asked to complete gaps in simple texts, fill in forms and write a short note (20-25 words) where your vocabulary will be tested.

Paper 2 – Listening (30 minutes)
This paper tests your ability to understand factual information from a recorded announcement or monologue that will be played for you in the examination.

Paper 3 – Speaking (8-10 minutes)
Together with another candidate and an examiner you will be asked simple questions about yourself, what you like to do and similar questions. This part of the exam tests your basic communication skills.

Results
Each skill carries 25% of the total marks. There are two pass grades (Pass with merit and Pass) and certificates are awarded to candidates who achieve these grades. Candidates who achieve a grade Narrow Fail or Fail are judged not to have reached the required standard for KET.

Where to find Cambridge ESOL preparation materials?
The British Council Library and  Information Centre has an extensive and carefully selected collection of Cambridge ESOL preparation sets. These sets usually include:

• Exam preparation book
• Workbook
• Audio material (audio cassette or CD)
• Answer key book

How do I benefit from using the sets from the library?

• You are guaranteed original and authorised materials published by prominent UK publishers
• You can choose from a variety of sets that cover practice in the different language skills tested
• The price of a single set in local bookstores is higher than the library annual membership fee

For more information about Cambridge ESOL exams please contact our Examination team.