YLE (Cambridge Young Learners English Tests)

These tests are an enjoyable and non-threatening way of assessing the English of children between the ages of 7 and 12. The tests are currently taken by over 310,000 children in about 55 countries around the world. There are three levels:

Why take YLE?

The tests provide a gentle introduction to public exams and research shows that children find the tests highly motivating. 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

The tests can act as a stepping stone to other Cambridge ESOL exams. As the highest level test, Flyers is roughly equivalent in language level to KET (Key English Test). It can serve as an appropriate bridge to KET or a step leading to PET (Preliminary English Test), as learners move into adolescence.

Young Learners English

Main Suite

Young Learners English

What do the tests involve?

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. Children perform simple operations such as selecting and ticking, writing words and phrases in gaps, or answering open-ended questions. Papers are sent to Cambridge ESOL for marking.

Listening

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

Speaking

This is a face-to-face test which lasts between 5 and 10 minutes with suitably qualified, experienced and trained Examiners. Children perform various activities in response to prompts from the examiner using visual prompts, and give simple information about themselves.

Results

There is no pass or fail. Every child who attempts all three components will receive an Award showing a number of shields (Cambridge crests) up to five for each component. For example, a child may obtain three shields for Reading and Writing, four shields for Listening and five shields for Speaking. The minimum Award for children who have attempted all three components is an Award with one shield for each component.

Marking is completed at Cambridge ESOL within two weeks of receiving the children's completed answer booklets. So children should receive their Awards within one month of taking their test, allowing for despatch time.

Once awarded Cambridge ESOL YLE certificates are valid for life.