WHAT IS KET/PET? ALL ABOUT THE EXAM INFORMATION & CERTIFICATE BENEFITS (UPDATED 2024)
The Cambridge KET/PET certificates are language proficiency exams that assess basic and intermediate English language skills. Both certificates are awarded by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.
The Cambridge KET/PET are internationally recognized qualifications accepted by many institutions and schools around the world. KET aligns with level A2, while PET is at level B1 of the CEFR (Common European Framework.
What are Cambridge KET/PET certificates?
The General English exam is the next level for students of all ages and adults after Young Learners (YLE), organized and certified by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.
- KET (Key English Test) is an English exam at the A2 level of CEFR. While A2 Key is for adults, A2 Key for Schools (or KET for Schools) is a Cambridge exam specifically tailored for students aged 10 to 14.
- PET (Preliminary English Test) is equivalent to level B1 of CEFR. B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools (or PET for Schools) have the same exam format, difficulty level, as well as value. PET for Schools is designed for students aged 12 to 16.
Common European Framework (CEFR)
Exam Format
Cambridge KET Exam Format
KET Exam Format
The KET English exam assesses 4 skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The reading and writing skills account for 50% of the total score, while each of the remaining parts accounts for 25%.
| Section | Duration | Questions | Content |
| Reading and Writing | 60 mins | 7 parts – 32 questions | Evaluation of the ability to read and comprehend symbols, ads, and magazine content. |
| Listening | 30 mins | 5 parts – 25 questions | Evaluation of the ability to understand spoken announcements at a relatively slow speed. |
| Speaking | 8-10 mins | 2 parts – 2 questions | Evaluation of the ability to communicate in English through basic questions. The candidates will take a speaking test with a partner or in a group of three. |
Cambridge PET Exam Format
PET Exam Format
The PET English exam consists of 4 parts covering listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with each worth 25% of the total score.
| Section | Duration | Questions | Content |
| Listening | 30 mins (including 6-min transfer time) | 4 parts – 25 questions | Evaluation of the ability to listen and comprehend everyday life situations. |
| Speaking | 12 mins | 4 parts | Evaluation of the ability to communicate in English through a question-and-answer conversation. |
| Reading | 45 mins | 6 parts – 32 questions | Evaluation of the ability to read and comprehend the meaning of signs, articles, and magazines. |
| Writing | 45 mins | 2 parts – 2 questions | Evaluation of the ability to use vocabulary and grammar accurately. |
SCORING
Cambridge PET Scoring Scale
PET scores are calculated using the Cambridge English Scale.
To earn a certificate, candidates must score 140 or higher (that’s B1 level). If you score between 102 and 119, you will only get a report card showing your score.
- 120 – 139 points: Candidate achieves A2 level.
- 140 – 152 points (Grade C – Pass): Achieves B1 level.
- 153 – 159 points (Grade B – Merit): Achieves B1 level.
- 160 – 170 points (Grade A – Distinction): Achieves B2 level.
Cambridge KET Scoring Scale
All tests scoring between 100 and 150 points will be awarded a certificate. However, there is a difference among the grading, specifically:
- 100 – 119 points: Candidate achieves A1 level.
- 120 – 132 points (Grade C – Pass): Achieves A2 level.
- 133 – 139 points (Grade B – Merit): Achieves A2 level.
- 140 – 150 points (Grade A – Distinction): Achieves B1 level.
Exam Registration Venue
Parents and students in Ho Chi Minh City can register for Cambridge exams at these official locations:
- Department of Education and Training of Ho Chi Minh City: 66-68 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Ton Duc Thang University (Cambridge Exams: PET, FCE, CAE, CPE): 19 Nguyen Huu Tho, Tan Phong Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Foreign Languages and Computing Center: 94 Tran Quang Khai, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Benefits of taking Cambridge KET/PET Exam
- English Proficiency Assessment: Cambridge certificates serve as a standardized measure of basic to intermediate English language proficiency, enabling students to evaluate their abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
- Higher Education and Study Abroad Opportunities: Cambridge certificates are widely recognized by universities and international educational institutions, giving students a competitive edge when applying for scholarships or international programs.
- English Skills Development: The process of preparing for English proficiency exams helps students to practice and consolidate their comprehensive English knowledge, thereby improving their ability to use the language for study, work, and life.
Preparation for Cambridge KET/PET Exam
- Create a study plan by setting specific target scores for each exam section. This plan should include different study phases and specific topics, with dedicated time for each skill.
- Utilize appropriate study materials, such as official Cambridge textbooks and exam preparation resources.
- Practice various exam question types using practice tests and sample papers.
- Develop comprehensive skills in English listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
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