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 ESOL 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. 

Test Schedule and Fees

Cambridge ESOL Exam Schedule for 2011
Session:    Mid-year 2011
Exam Dates:   28 May to 12 June 2011
Speaking Test Window:    04 June to 19 June 2011 
Session:    Year-end 2011
Exam Dates:   19 Nov to 08 Dec 2011
Speaking Test Window:    19 Nov to 08 Dec 2011 

All components (RWLS) of the Cambridge Young Learners English (YLE) Tests are tested on the same day. The actual test dates are, however, set at the discretion of CEFL Headquarters, taking into account the needs and conditions of CEFL Member Institutions.  

Click here to contact the Cambridge ESOL Centre Exams Manager for the actual test dates and the latest fees if you are a walk-in/external candidate or feeder school representative.

Registration

Candidates can register with CEFL Headquarters via CEFL Member Institutions because the YLE Tests can only be taken at an Authorised Centre for the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, and entries, which must be accompanied by fees, cannot be sent directly to Cambridge ESOL.  

There must be a minimum of 10 candidates for any level at each sitting. 

The closing date for registration is at least 10 weeks before the actual test date to ensure that test entry arrangements and Special Arrangements for candidates with a disability or specific learning difficulty can be made in strict accordance with the requirements of the Cambridge ESOL examination board. It should be noted that your nearest authorised Cambridge ESOL exam centre may set registration deadlines that are earlier than those published. 

Click here to contact the Cambridge ESOL Centre Exams Manager for the actual closing dates for entries, test registration and other arrangements if you are a walk-in/external candidate or feeder school representative.

Results

All written test papers are sent to Cambridge ESOL for marking, which is completed within two weeks. Results are issued within one month of the test dates, allowing for despatch time. 

Every candidate who sits for all three components of a Cambridge Young Learners English Test receives an award, which has a maximum of five shields (Cambridge shields) for each test component.

Click here for general information on Cambridge ESOL Examinations. 

Click here for further information on the CEFL YLE course. 

Click here to find your nearest CEFL Centre if you want to take a preparatory course for the YLE Tests.