Exam A2 Key – an overview
A2 Key is a basic level qualification that shows a candidate has achieved a good foundation in learning English. It is an ideal first exam for those new to learning English and gives learners confidence to study for higher Cambridge English Qualifications such as B1 Preliminary and B2 First.
A2 Key can be taken as either a paper-based or computer-based exam.
A2 Key is aimed at learners who need to show they can:
- understand and use basic phrases and expressions
- understand simple written English
- interact with English speakers at a basic level.
The A2 Key certificate is recognised around the world as a basic qualification in English.
Cambridge English Qualifications are accepted and trusted by thousands of organisations worldwide. For more information about recognition go to cambridgeenglish.org/recognition
A2 Key is targeted at Level A2 on the CEFR. Achieving a certificate at this level proves that a candidate can use English to communicate in simple situations.
The Statement of Results shows the candidate’s:
- Score on the Cambridge English Scale for their performance in each of the three exam papers (Reading and Writing, Listening and Speaking).
- Score on the Cambridge English Scale for their overall performance in the exam. The overall score is the average of their scores for the four skills.
- Grade – this is based on the candidate’s overall score.
- Level on the CEFR – this is also based on the overall score.
The certificate shows the candidate’s:
- score on the Cambridge English Scale for each of the three exam papers
- overall score on the Cambridge English Scale
- grade
- level on the CEFR
- level on the UK National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Cambridge English Qualifications are designed to be fair to all test takers. For more information about special circumstances, go to cambridgeenglish.org/help
Examen A2
