A2 Key Certificate (KET) – Cambridge A2 Level Exam in Bratislava
The A2 Key Cambridge exam (formerly known as KET – Key English Test) is an internationally recognised English language exam that certifies a language level of A2 on the CEFR scale. The A2 Key exam is designed for adult candidates as well as pupils aged 11 and over (the A2 Key for Schools version) who wish to obtain their first Cambridge English certificate.
IH Bratislava is an authorised Cambridge exam centre in Slovakia. You can take the A2 Key (KET) Cambridge exam with us in a professional environment, with regular exam dates throughout the year. We also offer Cambridge exam preparation courses with qualified teachers.
A2 Key exam preparation course
How does a Cambridge exam work – step by step
General terms and conditions for registration (PDF)
Why get the A2 Key (KET) Cambridge certificate?
The A2 Key Cambridge certificate is one of the most widely taken A2-level English exams in the world. Why choose it?
- Lifetime validity – the A2 Key Cambridge certificate never needs to be renewed. Unlike IELTS or TOEFL, it is valid for life.
- International recognition – the A2 Key certificate is recognised by employers, schools and institutions worldwide, including in Slovakia.
- Comprehensive testing – the A2 Key exam tests all language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking at A2 level.
- A stepping stone – the KET exam is ideal preparation for higher-level Cambridge exams, particularly B1 Preliminary (PET). Candidates become familiar with the Cambridge exam format.
- Detailed assessment – every candidate receives a Statement of Results with scores for each part of the exam, along with a Cambridge certificate.
The A2 Key exam can easily be integrated into English language teaching curricula.
A2 Key vs. A2 Key for Schools – Cambridge exam for children
Cambridge offers two versions of the A2-level English exam. Both have the same level of difficulty and lead to the same certificate.
- A2 Key for Schools – a Cambridge exam for children and primary school pupils aged 11–14. The topics and materials are based on the interests and experiences of younger candidates.
- A2 Key – the version for adult candidates and older students. The topics focus on everyday life situations.
- The certificate is identical – regardless of which version of the Cambridge exam you choose, the certificate confirms the same level of English.
- The A2 Key for Schools Cambridge exam can also be organised directly at your school.
For more information about Cambridge exams for children, visit our Cambridge exams for children and pupils page.
Format and content of the A2 Key (KET) exam
The A2 Key exam consists of three parts.
Reading and Writing
- Duration: 1 hour
- Number of parts / questions: 7 parts / 32 questions
- Content: Understanding signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. Writing two short texts (140–190 words).
- Weighting in overall score: 50%
Listening
- Duration: approx. 30 minutes
- Number of parts / questions: 5 parts / 25 questions
- Content: Understanding announcements and recordings in English where people speak at a reasonably slow pace.
- Weighting in overall score: 25%
Speaking
- Duration: 8–10 minutes
- Number of parts: 2 parts
- Content: A conversation with the examiner and another candidate in English.
- Weighting in overall score: 25%
The Cambridge exam format is the same for both the computer-based and paper-based versions.
Scoring and grading of the A2 Key exam
Each part of the A2 Key Cambridge exam is scored separately. Your overall score determines your result and the level of English shown on your certificate.
| Score achieved | Grade | CEFR English level |
|---|---|---|
| 140–150 | A (exceptional result) | B1 |
| 133–139 | B | A2 |
| 120–132 | C | A2 |
| 100–119 | Level A1 | A1 |
- Grade "A" – the candidate demonstrated exceptional English knowledge beyond A2 level. The Cambridge certificate will show the higher level of B1.
- Grade "B" or "C" – a successful pass of the KET exam at A2 level.
- Score 100–119 – the candidate receives a Cambridge certificate showing A1 level.
When will the Cambridge exam results be available?
- Computer-based A2 Key exam: 5–10 working days
- Paper-based A2 Key exam: 4–6 weeks
You can check your results via the online results service, where you will find your detailed Statement of Results.
Registration for the A2 Key exam in Bratislava – process and fees
How to register for the A2 Key (KET) Cambridge exam at the IH Bratislava exam centre:
- Choose your exam date – you can find the current dates and fees for the A2 Key exam on the A2 Key exam dates page.
- Complete the application form – the online registration form will guide you through the entire Cambridge exam enrolment process.
- Pay the exam fee – payment must be made by the deadline stated in the registration confirmation.
- Receive your confirmation – we will send you all the details about the exam day in Bratislava by email.
For details about the exam day, visit our How does a Cambridge exam work page.
Computer-based vs. paper-based A2 Key exam – comparison
The A2 Key (KET) Cambridge exam can be taken in two formats. The content, difficulty and Cambridge certificate are exactly the same.
| Computer-based A2 Key | Paper-based A2 Key | |
|---|---|---|
| Method | On a computer at the exam centre in Bratislava | Written on paper |
| Results | 5–10 working days | 4–6 weeks |
| Speaking | Face to face with an examiner | Face to face with an examiner |
| Certificate | Identical Cambridge certificate | Identical Cambridge certificate |
Advantages of the computer-based Cambridge exam: faster results, the ability to edit your answers before submitting, and a clear interface. The Speaking part of the A2 Key exam takes place face to face in both cases.
A2 Key sample tests – Cambridge exam preparation
The best way to prepare for the A2 Key (KET) exam is to practise with sample tests. Below you will find official materials from Cambridge.
A2 Key for Schools sample tests
Computer-based version
- Digital Listening Sample Test – A2 Key for Schools
- Digital Reading and Writing Sample Test – A2 Key for Schools
Paper-based version
- Reading and Writing, Listening, Speaking – A2 Key for Schools (.zip)
- Speaking A2 Key for Schools – sample 1 (YouTube)
- Speaking A2 Key for Schools – sample 2 (YouTube)
- KET for Schools Speaking exam assessment (PDF)
Answer keys
- A2 Key for Schools Listening – answer key (PDF)
- A2 Key for Schools Listening – tapescript (PDF)
- A2 Key for Schools Reading – answer key (PDF)
A2 Key sample tests
Computer-based version
Paper-based version (valid until June 2026)
- Reading and Writing, Listening, Speaking – A2 Key (.zip)
- Speaking A2 Key – Speaking exam sample (YouTube)
Answer keys
- A2 Key Listening – answer key (PDF)
- A2 Key Listening – tapescript (PDF)
- A2 Key Reading – answer key (PDF)
The Speaking test is the same for both the computer-based and paper-based versions of the Cambridge exam.
Vocabulary for the A2 Key exam – KET vocabulary list (PDF)
Would you like to prepare for the A2 Key Cambridge exam with a teacher? Take a look at our A2 Key exam preparation courses in Bratislava.
Frequently asked questions about the A2 Key (KET) Cambridge exam
How long is the A2 Key Cambridge certificate valid for?
The A2 Key Cambridge certificate has lifetime validity. Unlike IELTS or TOEFL, you never need to renew it – it is valid for life.
How long does it take to prepare for the A2 Key (KET) exam?
It depends on your current level of English. If you are at A1 level, we recommend a minimum of 3–6 months of regular study or completing a Cambridge exam preparation course at IH Bratislava. If you already have A2-level English, it is enough to familiarise yourself with the KET exam format using sample tests.
What if I do not pass the A2 Key Cambridge exam?
Even candidates with a score of 100–119 points receive a Cambridge certificate showing A1 level. The A2 Key exam can be retaken at any subsequent exam date – there is no limit on the number of attempts.
Is the A2 Key Cambridge exam suitable for children?
Yes. For pupils aged 11–14, we recommend the A2 Key for Schools version, which has the same level of difficulty but with topics tailored to children's interests. For younger children at A2 level, the A2 Flyers exam is available. Find out more on our Cambridge exams for children page.
What is the next step after the A2 Key exam?
The natural progression is the B1 Preliminary (PET) Cambridge exam, which certifies an intermediate level of English. After that, you can continue with B2 First (FCE).
Where can I take the A2 Key Cambridge exam in Bratislava?
At IH Bratislava – an authorised Cambridge exam centre in Slovakia. We run Cambridge exams regularly throughout the year. You can find the current dates and fees for the A2 Key exam on the A2 Key exam dates page.
Have more questions? See our FAQ:
Cambridge exams – Questions and answers
How can I test my level of English before the exam?
Try our free online English level test to find out whether you are ready for the A2 Key Cambridge exam.
Further information for A2 Key exam candidates
- Information for A2 Key candidates (PDF)
- Information for A2 Key for Schools candidates (PDF)
- Summary regulations for candidates
- A2 Key – digital tutorial for candidates (YouTube)
Have questions about the A2 Key Cambridge exam in Bratislava? Contact us – we will be happy to help.
A2 Key (KET) exam dates and fees
What is the next step after the A2 Key Cambridge exam? Take a look at B1 Preliminary (PET) or test your level of English online.
