Pre A1 Starters: the start of a child’s language learning journey
The Pre A1 Starters exam is made up of three papers – Listening, Reading and Writing, and Speaking – developed to encourage and motivate young learners. You can see what’s in each paper below.
Cambridge Pre A1 Starters consists of 3 tests:
Listening
Listening
The Pre A1 Starters Listening paper has 4 parts and 20 questions. Each part begins with one or two examples. For all parts of the Reading and Writing test, children must spell their answers correctly. Children will hear each recording twice.
Candidates can gain a maximum of 5 shields.
Reading and Writing
Reading and Writing
The Pre A1 Starters Reading and Writing paper has 5 parts and 25 questions. Each part begins with one or two examples. For all parts of the Reading and Writing test, children must spell their answers correctly.
Candidates can gain a maximum of 5 shields.
Speaking
Speaking
The Pre A1 Starters Speaking test has 4 parts. Children take the test alone with the examiner, but someone they know who speaks their language (like their teacher) will introduce them to the examiner and explain what to do in their own language.
Candidates can gain a maximum of 5 shields.
Exams Owl: Your go-to portal for teacher and learner resources
Exams Owl is the official support site for Exams Catalunya, Exams Madrid, Exams Balears and Andorra. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or candidate, you will find a wide range of free resources to help you prepare for the Pre A1 Starters exam and understand your results.
The site includes:
- Pre A1 Starters sample tests and Speaking test videos
- Activities and printable resources for children
- Information and support for parents and Preparation Centres
- Guidance and materials for teachers.
Exams Owl offers everything you need to understand the Pre A1 Starters exam format and support young learners on their Cambridge English journey.