A2 Key: a great first step in learning English
The A2 Key exam is made up of three papers – Listening, Reading and Writing, and Speaking – developed to test your English skills. You can see exactly what is included in each paper below, with the same formats applying to both the paper-based and Digital exams.
Cambridge A2 Key consists of 3 tests:
Reading and Writing
Reading and Writing
The A2 Key Reading and Writing paper has 7 parts and 32 questions. Parts 1–5 are about reading and Parts 6–7 are mainly about writing.
This paper accounts for 50% of the total mark.
Listening
Listening
The A2 Key Listening paper has 5 parts and 25 questions. For each part you have to listen to a recorded text or texts and answer some questions. You hear each recording twice.
This paper accounts for 25% of the total mark.
Speaking
Speaking
The A2 Key Speaking paper shows you can take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. Your Speaking test will be conducted usually face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. One of the examiners (who could be online, examining remotely) talks to you and the other examiner listens. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable.
The Speaking test accounts for 25% of the total mark.
Exams Owl: Your go-to portal for teacher and learner resources
Exams Owl is the official support site for Exams Catalunya, Exams Madrid, Exams Balears, and Andorra. Whether you are a teacher or candidate, you will find a wide range of free resources to help you prepare for the A2 Key exam and understand your results.
The site includes:
- A2 Key sample tests and Speaking test videos
- Exam day tips and preparation advice
- Support and materials for teachers and Preparation Centres.
Exams Owl offers everything you need to understand the A2 Key exam format and support your Cambridge English journey.