The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a set of guidelines used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries. Developed by the Council of Europe, it provides a method of learning, teaching, and assessing which applies to all languages in Europe.
The CEFR has six levels: A1 and A2 (basic user), B1 and B2 (independent user), and C1 and C2 (proficient user). It’s widely accepted as a way of benchmarking language ability, from beginner to advanced, and it’s recognized by educational institutions and employers worldwide.
| Level | CEFR | Exam Equivalence to CEFR | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | A0 | IELTS 1 – 2 TOEIC 0 – 150 | Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. |
| Elementary | A1 | IELTS 2 – 3 CAMBRIDGE KET TOEIC 151 – 300 | You can understand language used in everyday situations if the speaker speaks slowly and clearly, improve by developing your listening and vocabulary. |
| Pre-Intermediate | A2 | IELTS 3 – 4 TOEIC 301 – 400 | You can communicate in a range of everyday social and travel contexts. Improve by developing your speaking, grammar and vocabulary. |
| Intermediate | B1 | IELTS 4 – 5 CAMBRIDGE PET TOEFL 30 – 35 / TOEIC 401 – 525 | You can speak English with some confidence. Improve by developing you fluency, your understanding of grammar and by widening your vocabulary. |
| Upper – Intermediate | B2 | IELTS 5 – 6 CAMBRIDGE FCE TOEFL 36 – 60 / TOEIC 528 – 750 | You can use English effectively, improve by learning to discuss, argue and express opinion in a culturally acceptable way. Refine your use of grammar and vocabulary. |
| Advanced | C1 | IELTS 6 – 7 CAMBRIDGE CAE TOEFL 61 – 94 / TOEIC 528 – 750 | You can use English in a range of culturally different ways. Improve by extending your vocabulary and refining your use of style and register. |
| Proficient | C2 | IELTS 7 – 8 CAMBRIDGE CPE TOEFL 95 – 110 / TOEIC 901+ | You can use English with ease and fluency, improve by increasing your understanding of the nuances of the language and engaging in independent reading to develop your vocabulary further. |
