What are the Cambridge Young Learners English (YLE) tests?

Young Learners English (YLE) is a reliable and consistent measure of how well your child is doing in the skills of listening, speaking and reading and writing. Tests are designed to make learning fun and children are encouraged by working towards certificates and earning the 'shields' that record their progress.

There are three levels for children to work through, Starters, Movers and Flyers, with Starters being the first, aimed at young children with very basic skills who are aged 5 or above. As children develop and work their way up to the Flyers certificate, they reach a level that will enable them to aim for the Key English Test (KET) or the Preliminary English Test (PET) in our General English range of certificates – qualifications which will be of value for further study.

			Starters		for children from the age of 5		usually K3 - P2
			Movers		for children between 8 and 11		usually P3 - P4*
			Flyers		for children between 9 and 12		usually P5 - P6*

*suggestions only

Why should your child take Cambridge ESOL tests?

Clear progress - Whatever your child's current age, ability, or reason for studying, Cambridge ESOL has an examination which will be appropriate for him or her to work towards. Attaining each certificate is a step that leads naturally to taking a more challenging test.

Recognition - A qualification in English is an important asset for your child to take full advantage of the opportunities that tomorrow's world of work will offer. YLE and Cambridge ESOL tests are recognised by thousands of educational organisations and employers throughout the world.

When will you receive the results?

Results are available about one month after the test, to be sent to the address provided on the application form by local courier.

What conditions are there?

No change of test date is permitted unless on medical grounds. A request for a change of test date has to be supported by medical proof dated on the test date and parents have to put such requests in writing within 3 working days of the test with an administration fee of HK$100 for this service.

Changing the test level is not premitted.

Awards are printed according to the name provided on the application form. An administration fee of HK$350 will be charged for replacement or lost awards. Misprinted awards will be replaced free of charge within six months of the awards being issued.

Please note that the test fee is not refundable under any circumstances.

More about the tests

A video interview with Chris Defty, Teacher Trainer and Examiner of University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations