Cambridge YLE

Resource centre - ESL exams - Cambridge YLE

YLE (Young Learners English Tests) assess English language proficiency in young learners aged 7-12. They are designed as an introduction for young learners to public exams, and to be a stepping stone to other Cambridge ESOL exams.

Who administers YLE?

YLE is administered by Cambridge ESOL.

How is YLE structured?

There are 3 levels, Starters, Movers and Flyers. Each test has 3 sections, Reading and Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

Question types in the reading and writing test include selecting and ticking, writing words and phrases in gaps and answering open-ended questions. The reading and writing test is 20 minutes (Starters), 30 minutes (Movers) or 40 minutes (Flyers).

Question types in the listening test include drawing lines, selecting, matching and colouring, in response to short dialogues. The listening test is 20 minutes (Starters) or 25 minutes (Movers and Flyers). In the speaking test, learners perform activities in response to prompts and give information about themselves. it lasts from 5 to 10 minutes.