A2 Key for Schools

They are at the same CEFR level and follow the same format, so the tasks and timing are identical. The difference is the audience: A2 Key for Schools is tailored to the interests and experience of school-age learners, while A2 Key is designed for adults. Choose the one that matches the candidate.

About two hours across three papers. Reading and Writing takes 1 hour, Listening takes 30 minutes including 6 minutes' transfer time, and Speaking takes 8–10 minutes per pair of candidates, or 13–15 minutes per group of three. Speaking is usually scheduled separately from the written papers.

Results are reported on the Cambridge English Scale in the range 120–139 for this level. Cambridge does not publish a single pass mark in the material summarised here, so check the results guidance for your exam session rather than relying on a remembered figure. Your statement of results shows your scale score and profile.

It tests basic everyday English, so the language itself is not advanced. Most lost marks come from task handling rather than vocabulary: not reading signs carefully in Reading Part 1, missing the word limit in the writing tasks, or losing focus during the second listening playback. Steady practice with timed papers closes most of that gap.

Cambridge does not state a retake limit in the source material for this page, so there is no confirmed rule to quote here. In practice you register for a later session through an exam centre and sit the whole exam again. Ask your centre about the next available dates and any waiting period.

Two writing tasks in Reading and Writing. Part 6 asks for a short email or note of 25 words or more, and Part 7 asks for a short story of 35 words or more based on three picture prompts. Each is worth a maximum of 15 marks, so writing is a large share of that paper.

Build reading and vocabulary first, because the same core words feed listening, writing and speaking. Then add timed listening practice, since each recording is heard twice and learners often need training to use the second playback for checking. Leave speaking practice until you can answer simple personal questions fluently.

Both. The test format is digital or paper-based, and the formats are the same for both. One timing point matters: the A2 Key paper-based exam will be withdrawn after the last session in December 2026 and will then be digital only, while A2 Key for Schools will still be available in both formats.

Two parts, taken with one or two other candidates and two examiners. One examiner talks to you and the other listens; both give marks. Part 1 is an interview of 3–4 minutes where you give factual or personal information. Part 2 is a discussion of 5–6 minutes where you talk about likes and dislikes and give reasons.

It shows you can communicate in simple situations and interact with English speakers at a basic level. It is a worldwide qualification and gives learners confidence to go on and study for higher-level exams such as B1 Preliminary for Schools and B1 Preliminary. Check with any school or employer about their specific requirements.