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Pre A1 Starters is one of the Cambridge English Qualifications, and is the start of a child’s language learning journey.

Pre A1 Starters is the first of three Cambridge English Qualifications designed for young learners. These tests introduce children to everyday written and spoken English and are an excellent way for them to gain confidence and improve their English.

The tests are written around familiar topics and focus on the skills needed to communicate effectively in English through listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Pre A1 Starters

Exam updates

Cambridge regularly reviews the exams to make sure they are up to date with the latest research in language learning and teaching. Pre A1 Starters was updated and the revised test started being used for exam sessions in January 2018.

Pre A1 Starters is made up of three papers developed to encourage and motivate young learners. You can see exactly what’s in each paper below.

Speaking
(3-5 minutes)

4 parts

a maximum of five shields 

Listening
(about 20 minutes) 

4 parts/ 20 questions

a maximum of five shields 

Reading and Writing
(20 minutes)

5 parts/ 25 questions 

a maximum of five shields

Linked to the CEFR, Can Do statements show what a learner can do at each level. Please read the following pdf file for more information: 

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