A1 | Welcome to the Start of Your English Journey!

A1 | Welcome to the Start of Your English Journey!

Discover your English level, prepare with tailored resources, and achieve success with Cambridge English qualifications. Here’s a guide to help you understand what your level means and what you can do to improve.

What you will find

What Your Level Means: Understand your current abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

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Preparation Guidance: Get recommendations tailored to your score—whether you prefer self-study, coaching, or a course.

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Exam Options: Discover the Cambridge English exams that match your skills and learn how they can boost your future success.

What Your A1 Level Means

  • Listening & Speaking You can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and simple phrases. You can introduce yourself and ask basic questions about personal details, such as where you live or what you do.

  • Reading You can read and understand simple texts, like short notices, signs, or basic instructions.

  • Writing You can write simple sentences or fill out forms with basic personal information.

Taking the next step is simple: start preparing with tailored materials or coaching options and work towards your first Cambridge exam. Remember, each exam is a step closer to reaching your English goals!

Preparation Guidance

Students preparing for the Cambridge English exam

Based on your results, here are the Cambridge English exams best suited to show what you have learned and take the next step in your English journey. Explore different preparation resources and get recognized for your language skills to embark on new opportunities.

Cambridge | Pre A1-A2 Young Learners (YLE)

Start your child’s English journey with fun, activity-based language tests designed for primary and lower-secondary school students.

The Cambridge Pre A1-A2 Young Learners (YLE) exams are designed for children aged 6–12 to build confidence and introduce English through engaging assessments.

The exams are divided into three levels:

  • Starters (Pre A1): Basic vocabulary and sentence structures (ages 6–8)
  • Movers (A1): Simple phrases and personal expression (ages 8–10)
  • Flyers (A2): Everyday communication skills (ages 10–12)

Exam Information - Cambridge A1-A2 Young Learners

Preparation

Score 10-15 (Self-study or coaching)

Your skills are solid on this level, and you may want to consider self-studying for this exam as the likelihood of a successful passing grade is very high.

You may want to consider working with the following preparation material or course options: Preparation materials Exam registration

Score 16-19

Your skills are already very high on this level. It is recommended that you attempt the next higher level (Cambridge A2 Key for Schools) and prepare for the exam through a course.

Alternatively, you may want to go safe and consider taking the Cambridge A2 Key, self-studying with the following preparation material or coaching options: Preparation materials Exam registration

Transition to Higher Levels

Career - Swiss Exams - Benefits of a Cambridge English certificate

Upon completing one of the Young Learners exams, candidates are well-prepared to progress to Cambridge A2 Key for Schools (KET S). This progression ensures a smooth transition from beginner to intermediate English proficiency, reinforcing skills and preparing students for academic and social applications.

Cambridge | A2 Key for Schools (KET S)

This exam is ideal for teenagers between the age of 12 and 16 who intend to develop and prove their English skills during their SEK1 and SEK2 education. The A2 Key for Schools exam is typically taken in the second or third year of secondary school and is an excellent preparation and qualification for students going into apprenticeships. Cambridge qualifications and certificates are highly valued in the Swiss Economy and contribute to the competitiveness of successful candidates.

Cambridge A2 Key for Schools - Exam Registration

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