Eligibility

The Cambridge Young Learners English (YLE) Tests are aimed at assessing in a non-threatening way the level of English of children between the ages of 7 and 12. They aim to:

• sample relevant and meaningful language use
• measure ability accurately and fairly
• present a positive impression of international tests
• promote and encourage effective learning and teaching 

Working up through three key levels – Starters, Movers and Flyers – the tests provide a gentle introduction to the Cambridge English Language Assessment Main Suite examinations as young learners move into adolescence.

Test Components (revised from January 2007)

Reading and Writing

This is a paper-and-pencil test which lasts 20 minutes (Starters), 30 minutes (Movers) and 40 minutes (Flyers). Texts are short and constrained by a specified set of words and structures. Candidates perform simple operations such as selecting and ticking, writing words and phrases in gaps, or answering open-ended questions.

Listening

This is also a paper-and-pencil test which lasts approximately 20 minutes (Starters) and 25 minutes (Movers and Flyers). As with the Reading and Writing paper, texts are limited in the language assessed to what is specified in the test specifications. Candidates listen to short recorded dialogues involving both child and adult speakers, and perform simple operations such as drawing lines, selecting, matching and colouring.

Speaking

This is a face-to-face test which lasts 5 minutes (Starters), 7 minutes (Movers) and 9 minutes (Flyers) with one suitably qualified, experienced and trained examiner to one candidate. Candidates perform various activities in response to visual prompts from the examiner, and they also give simple information about themselves.