A2 Key for Schools: a good start for young learners and for school-age students

The A2 Key for Schools 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 for Schools consists of 3 tests:

Reading and Writing

1 hour

The A2 Key for Schools Reading and Writing paper has 7 parts and 32 questions. Parts 1–5 are about reading and Parts 6–7 are mainly about writing.

The test accounts for 50% of the total mark.

Listening

30 minutes

The A2 Key for Schools 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

8-10 minutes per pair of candidates

The A2 Key for Schools Speaking test has two parts and you take it with another candidate. There are two examiners. One examiner talks to you and the other examiner listens. Both examiners give marks for your performance.

The test accounts for 25% of the total mark.

Exams Owl

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, parent, or candidate, you will find a wide range of free resources to help you prepare for the A2 Key for Schools exam and understand your results.

The site includes:

  • A2 Key for Schools sample tests and Speaking test videos
  • Activities and printable resources for children
  • Information and support for parents and Preparation Centres
  • Guidance and materials for teachers.

Exams Owl offers everything you need to understand the A2 Key for Schools exam format and support young learners on their Cambridge English journey.

On-the-go practice with Test & Train

Test & Train is an easy-to-use practice tool to help you get ready for your A2 Key for Schools exam through short, sharp workouts. With over 300 practice questions, you can use it anytime, anywhere and as many times as your like!

You can buy Test & Train when you register for your A2 Key for Schools exam.

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