What is the Starters certificate? What materials do children need to prepare for the Starters exam? Is there an effective way to prepare children for Starters at home? If parents are looking for a way to prepare your 6-8-year-old child for Starters at home and have these questions, check out FLYER’s informative article below
1. What is the Starters certificate?
The Starters certificate is the first level in the three-part examination system of the Cambridge Young Learners English (YLE) English language certificate. It is specifically designed for students aged 6 – 11. This certificate assesses a child’s English language proficiency comprehensively across all four skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing).
The three levels include Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers, and A2 Flyers. The exams focus on familiar topics and essential language skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing), enabling children to communicate effectively in English.
The exams’ placements within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which has six levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2), are indicated by the titles Pre-A1, A1, and A2. Starters is a level “before” A1, as denoted by the “Pre” in Pre-A1. The first test in the YLE English curriculum is the Pre A1 Starters certificate.
Both the Starters certificate and all YLE certificates have validity. Once candidates achieve their desired results there is no need to retake the exam as they can progress to levels.
2. Children’s abilities at Starters level
Children who have attained a Pre A1 Starters competency level can utilize English in conversational contexts. Among them are:
| Communicate with simple sentences | Spell their name and basic words |
| Respond to simple questions | Know basic nouns referring to people and objects |
| Understand simple storytelling | Comprehend short and concise dialogues |
| Listen and follow simple instructions | Copy words, phrases, and short sentences with accurate spelling |
| Understand descriptions of familiar objects | Recognize and write English alphabet letters |
3. When to begin studying Cambridge Starters?
Starters is designed for students who have never studied English before or have just started learning it. If children have never learned English before, parents can start with the Pre A1 Starters level to introduce them to simple vocabulary and English structures.
If children are between 6 – 8 years old but already have some experience in learning English, parents can assess their proficiency through a test. As soon as children submits the exam, the results will be visible, and the website will suggest the right level (Starters, Movers, or Flyers).
Typically, young students can take this certificate exam after approximately 90 hours of guided English instruction.
4. Cambridge Starters exam format
The Starters Cambridge exam lasts about 45 minutes and consists of three sections: Listening, Reading & Writing, and Speaking. The followings are the number of questions and the amount of time allocated for each section, based on the updated exam structure introduced in 2018:
Listening Test
| Section | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Look at a picture and listen to a conversation. Match the provided names to the corresponding individuals in the picture. |
| 2 | Section |
| 3 | Listen to a dialogue. Choose the image that corresponds to what you hear. This section comprises 5 questions, each containing a short dialogue and 3 pictures. |
| 4 | Listen to a dialogue and color in a picture according to the instructions in the dialogue. |
Reading and Writing Test
| Section | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Examine an image and read a phrase that explains what’s seen in it. If the sentence is correct, mark a check; if it’s incorrect, mark an X. |
| 2 | Look at a picture with 5 provided sentences. If the sentences accurately describe details in the picture, write “Yes”; if the sentences are incorrect, write “No”. |
| 3 | Sort the available letters into the appropriate words that describe the items in the side-by-side picture. |
| 4 | Read a text with 5 blanks, choose the appropriate words from the given options, and fill them in the blanks. |
| 5 | Look at 3 pictures, each with 1-2 questions. Based on the details in the pictures, use one word to answer the questions. |
Speaking Test
| Section | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Look at a large picture and point to the objects in the picture as directed by the examiner. Then, look at 8 small pictures and place 2 small pictures in the large picture at the location specified by the examiner. |
| 2 | The examiner asks the candidate questions about the large picture, and the candidate answers with one word or a simple sentence |
| 3 | The examiner shows the candidate 4 small pictures and asks questions. The candidate answers with one word. Example: The examiner points to a picture of a crocodile and asks, “What’s this?”-> The candidate answers: Crocodile |
| 4 | The examiner asks some questions about topics related to the candidate’s life, such as school, family, and friends. Example: What’s your friend’s name?/ Is your house/apartment big or small? This section also assesses the candidate’s ability to understand and answer personal information questions. |
Check out FLYER’s 5-episode series of sample Speaking Flyers Cambridge exam videos to understand how a speaking test will take place:
Check it out: Download FREE Cambridge Starters test papers with answers and audio + test prep books [UPDATED 2025]
Pre A1 Starters Digital
Cambridge has recently introduced a new digital format for the exam: Pre A1 Starters Digital. This updated version provides a fun and interactive experience for young learners, set in an engaging underwater world. As children take the test, they explore a turtle island map, complete tasks, and collect rewards. Official preparation materials for Pre A1 Starters Digital are available HERE
5. Why should children prepare for Starters?
Elementary school pupils are not required to prepare for Starters. On the other hand, parents should take into account the many advantages this certificate offers when organizing their child’s long-term educational development.
5.1. Global recognition of Cambridge Starters certificate
Cambridge English certificates, including Starters, are established by the University of Cambridge renowned globally as one of the prestigious universities. The tests are organized according to proficiency levels within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, reflecting the progression from basic language users to proficient users.
Cambridge has created specified progression levels that correspond to the cognitive and psychological maturation of different age groups. Cambridge Starters English certifications are internationally recognized, much as other English language credentials like IELTS or TOEFL.
5.2. Pre A1 Starters: A comprehensive assessment of 4 language skills
Pre A1 Starters comprehensively evaluate a child’s English language proficiency across all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Starters is an introductory level that provides children with basic vocabulary and grammar structures relating to everyday and familiar topics like school supplies, colors, family, friends, animals, etc., making it easier for them to communicate in English regularly.
5.3. Pre A1 Starters help children establish a fundamental English foundation
Upon completing the Pre A1 Starters level, children will have acquired approximately 300 vocabulary words and become familiar with common grammatical concepts (nouns, adjectives, verbs, determiners, present simple tense, present continuous tense, invitations, agreements, and refusals, etc.). This equips them to communicate in most everyday situations.
5.4. Starters exam results enable children to set study goals and monitor progress
The YLE exam series includes three levels: Pre A1 (Starters), A1 (Movers), and A2 (Flyers). With this level-based system, parents and children can easily set their English learning objectives and monitor their progress, making it easier to adjust their goals and learning trajectories.
6. Starters exam results and how to convert Starters scores into shields
Pre A1 Starters comprises three test sections, each of which can earn a maximum of 5 shields (Cambridge’s logo) illustrated on the certificate. Shields are emblematic of the royal knights and later became Cambridge’s logo, symbolizing victory. The maximum number of shields a candidate can achieve for each skill (Listening, Speaking, Reading & Writing) is 5 shields. The total number of shields a candidate can receive for one certificate is 15 shields.
Starters exam results do not distinguish between pass or fail. Each child who takes the test receives a certificate. This helps children have a more positive outlook on exams.
In addition to the certificate, children also receive a Statement of Results, which provides a detailed description of their English language proficiency corresponding to the number of shields they achieved.
7. Effective materials for preparing for the 2025 Cambridge Starters exam
7.1. 200+ Cambridge Starters practice tests on the virtual testing platform
Access 200+ Starters practice tests on the FLYER Virtual English Testing Platform to provide children with preparation for the Cambridge Starters exam.
- These exams have been carefully compiled to match the format (up to 90%) following Cambridge’s latest standards.
- The automatic scoring system and answer key will help students review and study effectively at home.
- Interactive exercises and game simulations stimulate children’s brain activity and interest in learning.
- It offers various fun learning features such as challenges with friends, short practice exercises, and vocabulary reviews.
Moreover, a helpful feature for parents is the Learning Report, which makes it easy to track the progress of their children’s studies. The system automatically stores all test results and uses them to provide feedback on the student’s current proficiency level, strengths, and areas that require improvement.
More significantly, parents who use FLYER’s virtual testing platform can save up to 80% on their kids’ exam preparation expenses!
7.2. FLYER AI-Powered Speaking tools
FLYER provides AI-powered speaking tools to help students improve pronunciation and communication skills:
- AI FLYER Bingo: An AI assistant that helps students develop a daily English-speaking habit while naturally improving their listening comprehension and pronunciation.
- FLYER AI Speaking allows students to practice speaking anytime, anywhere, enhancing their English reflexes. It evaluates pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary while providing detailed phonetic feedback and IPA-based corrections to ensure accurate pronunciation.
7.3. Cambridge Starters exam preparation materials for children
To help children prepare effectively for the Cambridge Starters exam, parents are encouraged to explore official study materials provided by Cambridge, as well as other trusted educational sources. Below are some high-quality resources designed for young learners:
- Pre A1 Starters Wordlist picture book
- Cambridge YLE Sample Papers Test (See the Starters sample test on page 3)
7.4. Other resources
Here are some Pre A1 Starters exam preparation books recommended by Cambridge:
- Fun for Starters (Buy HERE)
- Story fun (Buy HERE)
- Kid’s Box (Buy HERE)
- Power Up (Buy HERE)
- Fun Skills (Buy HERE)
8. Frequently asked questions about Cambridge Starters
8.1. How do I register my child for the Starters exam?
Parents can register children for the Starters exam through an authorized Cambridge exam center. To find the nearest test center, visit the official Cambridge English website and search by location. Please note that registration deadlines and test dates may vary between centers, so it is advisable to contact them in advance for specific details on the registration process, fees, and available test formats (paper-based or digital).
8.2. How long does it take to receive the Starters exam results?
For the paper-based exam, results are available within 4-6 weeks after the test date. For the digital exam, results are typically available within 2 weeks, thanks to the faster processing time of the online format.
8.3. What is the difference between Pre A1 Starters (paper-based) and Pre A1 Starters Digital?
Both versions assess the same skills and follow the same scoring system. The key differences are that Pre A1 Starters (paper-based) uses traditional question booklets and answer sheets, while Pre A1 Starters Digital is taken on a computer with interactive tasks, such as dragging and dropping answers. The digital version may feel more engaging for children who are familiar with digital learning tools.
8.4. Does the Starters certificate expire?
No, Cambridge certificates do not expire. The Pre A1 Starters certificate remains valid indefinitely and can serve as proof of a child’s foundational English skills.
Conclusion
Now parents are aware of the advantages this exam provides for primary school pupils and have comprehensive answers to the question “What is the Cambridge Starters certificate?”.
Following the Cambridge curriculum is a decision that takes work, but it pays off in the long run by giving kids a strong foundation in the language that will enable them to seek higher levels of English proficiency
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