CEFR Levels in English

The CEFR levels in English are a system used to measure a person’s ability to speak and understand English. They go from A1, which is the beginning level, to C2, which is the most advanced. The full list of levels is A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. CEFR stands for the Common European Framework of Reference. This system originated in Europe, but it is used in many countries around the world.

The “A” Levels: Basic User

The A1 and A2 levels are for people who are just beginning to learn English. If you are at one of these levels, you can:

• Understand and use very basic phrases and sentences.
• Introduce yourself and ask simple questions about other people.
• Talk about simple, everyday topics.
• Write short, simple texts.

The “B” Levels: Independent User

The B1 and B2 levels are for people who can use English independently. In this context, the word “independently” means that you can do things without help from others (you are able to use English without help).

You can communicate in most everyday situations. You can talk about what you know, and ask questions when you don’t understand.

If you are at one of these levels, you can:

• Understand the main points of information on familiar topics that come up often at work, school, social circumstances, etc.
• Handle most things that might come up while traveling.
• Write clear, detailed text on a wide range of topics and explain points of view on different issues, describing the advantages and disadvantages.

The “C” Levels: Proficient User

The C1 and C2 levels are for people who can use English proficiently. The word “proficiently” means that you can use English very well, even as well as a native speaker.

If you are at one of these levels, you can:

• Understand a wide range of difficult, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning.
• Express yourself fluently and naturally, without looking for words too much.
• Use English flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.
• Write clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and literary techniques.

What Are the 6 Levels of CEFR?

CEFR-Level A1 (Beginners)

1) Communicate in a simple way

2) Ask and answer simple questions

CEFR-Level A1 is the beginning level. This means that a person knows just a few words and phrases in English, and can only use these to communicate very basic information. For example, they may be able to say “Hello, my name is Sarah,” or “Coffee, please”.

Some more examples: learners are able to greet people, introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions, talk about where they are from, what they like or do not like, and order food and drinks in a restaurant.

In terms of grammar, learners are typically limited to using present tense verb forms. They may have difficulty with more complex structures. Sentences will typically be very short.

In terms of vocabulary, they only know a few hundred words, and so need to rely heavily on context clues to understand what someone is saying.

In terms of listening, they can only understand very simple, slow speech.

In terms of speaking, they may speak slowly and carefully and may use a lot of fillers (um, uh).

Average Time to Reach CEFR Level A1: around 70-150 hours.

Some examples of sentences learners at the CEFR Level A1 may be able to say:

• “I come from Japan.”
• “I live in Amsterdam.”
• “My name is Mia.”
• “What’s your name?”
• “How are you?”
• “I’m fine, thank you.”
• “Where do you work?”
• “I work in an office.”
• “What do you do?”
• “I’m a manager.”
• “Do you like sushi?”
• “Yes, I like it.” / “No, I don’t like it.”
• “What’s this?”
• “It’s a pen.”
• “What color is it?”
• “It’s blue.”
• “How much does it cost?”
• “It costs 5 dollars.”

CEFR-Level A2 (Pre-Intermediate)

1) Greet people, ask how they are doing, and respond to news.

2) Deal with very short conversations.

3) Talk about what to do, where to go, and make plans.

4) Simple interactions in stores, banks, and other places.

5) Get simple travel information.

CEFR-Level A2 is the next level up from CEFR-Level A1. This means that a person knows more words and phrases in English, and can use these to communicate more information.

Learners are able to understand and use common expressions and basic phrases. They can introduce themselves or someone else, ask and answer simple questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have. They can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

Some examples of sentences learners may be able to say:

• “I’m from Italy.”
• “This is my first time in London.”
• “What’s your name?”
• “How are you?”
• “I live near the station.”
• “Here are your keys.”
• “Where’s the post office, please?”
• “How much is this?”
• “I need help with my suitcase.”
• “Do you have any change for the bus?”
• “Where is the first aid kit?”
• “What does this word mean?”
• “Can I ask you for some directions to the museum, please?”
• “Do you know where these shoes are from?”
• “You’re going too fast!”

In terms of grammar, learners at this level can use basic verb forms in the present, past, and future tense. However, they often make mistakes. Sentences are still typically very short.

In terms of vocabulary, learners at CEFR level A2 know around 1,000 words. This means they can talk about a wider range of topics, and are less reliant on context clues to understand what someone is saying.

CEFR level A2 is the level where learners start to be able to use more complex grammar structures. They may be able to use conditional sentences or compound verb tenses.

In terms of listening, they can understand everyday phrases and the highest frequency vocabulary if they are spoken slowly and clearly. They can follow simple directions and requests.

In terms of speaking, they speak in short, simple sentences. They often have to ask for clarification.

Average Time to Reach from CEFR Level A1 to A2: around 150-200 hours.

CEFR-Level B1 (Intermediate)

1) Talk about experiences, events, dreams, and hopes, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

2) Express themselves on a range of topics in more detail.

3) Understand the main points of regular matters encountered in work, school, free time activities, etc.

4) Write clear, detailed text on different subjects.

Level B1 is the next level up from Level A2. CEFR level B1 speakers are considered independent. This means that they can communicate in English without much difficulty, even on more abstract subjects. They can have longer conversations and write texts on different topics. Additionally, they can describe experiences and events, and give reasons and explanations for their opinions and plans.

Some examples of sentences learners may be able to say:

• “I was really surprised when I found out that my best friend had got the job.”
• “I’m not sure whether I should go on holiday or save the money.”
• “I can’t stand people who are always late.”
• “I was worried that I wouldn’t understand the film, but actually it was quite easy to follow.”
• “I’m really looking forward to the weekend.”
• “Could you tell me how to get to the station, please?”
• “What time does the bank open?”
• “I’m sorry, I don’t have any change.”
• “Can you recommend a good restaurant around here?”
• “Do you have any idea what the time is?”
• “I’m afraid I don’t understand what you mean.”
• “Could you explain it again, please?”

In terms of grammar, learners at this level can use a range of verb tenses and sentence structures. However, they may still make mistakes.

In terms of vocabulary, learners at level B1 know around 2,000 words. This allows them to talk about a wider range of topics in more detail. They can also use more complex grammar structures.

In terms of speaking, they can communicate quite fluently and naturally. They can use a range of sentence structures and vocabulary.

Average Time to Reach from CEFR Level A2 to B1: around 300-400 hours.

CEFR-Level B2 (Upper-Intermediate)

1) Understand the main points of a complicated text, like a piece of technical writing about their field.

2) Write an in-depth text about a wide range of topics.

3) Interact in a natural manner that can maintain a normal conversation with a native speaker, without too much effort.

4) Express themselves on various types of subjects with little effort to find the right words.

Level B2 is the next level up from B1. CEFR level B2 speakers are considered upper-intermediate. This means that they can communicate in English quite fluently and naturally, and can use different kinds of sentence structures and vocabulary.

Some examples of sentences learners may be able to say:

• “I can’t believe it’s already December, time flies!”
• “By the time we got to the restaurant, we were both starving.”
• “I’m not sure what to make of his strange behavior.”
• “College can be challenging, but it is also a great time to meet new people and learn more about yourself.”
• “I have many plans for the future, but the one that is most important to me is to finish my degree. I want to get a degree in accounting so that I can get a good job and have a successful career. I also want to travel the world and see new places.”

In terms of grammar, learners at this level can use a wide range of verb tenses and sentence structures. They make very few mistakes.

In terms of vocabulary, learners at level B2 know around 3,000 words. This means that they can talk about a wide range of topics in depth. For example, they can discuss abstract concepts, give opinions, and explain their point of view.

In terms of listening, they can follow a wide range of different types of conversations and lectures. They can also follow more complicated talks.

In terms of speaking, they can communicate quite fluently and naturally. They can use a wide range of sentence structures and vocabulary.

Average Time to Reach from CEFR Level B1 to B2: around 200-300 hours.

CEFR-Level C1 (Advanced)

1) Write clear, smoothly-flowing, well-structured text, including figurative speech and different literary methods.

2) Understand lengthy and complicated texts, such as lectures or political speeches.

3) Express self almost effortlessly in English.

4) Handle subtlety and nuance in language. For example, making a joke or giving criticism.

Level C1 is the next level up from B2. CEFR level C1 speakers are considered advanced. This means that they can write clear, well-structured texts. They can also understand lengthy and complicated texts. In addition, they can express themselves almost effortlessly in English. They can also read between the lines and communicate shades of meaning.

Some examples of sentences learners may be able to say:

• “The data doesn’t lie, we need to act now.”
• “I’m not sure I follow your line of reasoning.”
• “I’m afraid I don’t have the time to go into detail.”
• “His behavior was completely out of line.”
• “She’s always putting her foot in her mouth.” (Meaning, she always says things that are silly or embarrassing.)
• “I’m not sure what the right course of action is, but I’ll trust my gut.”
• “The novel is a work of fiction, but it has a lot of truth in it.”
• “In physics, space and time are considered to be two separate dimensions. Space is the three-dimensional area in which objects can exist, and time is the measure of how long it takes for an event to happen. Together, space and time create the fabric of the universe.”

In terms of grammar, learners at this level can use a wide range of verb tenses and sentence structures. They make very few mistakes.

In terms of vocabulary, C1 level learners know around 5,000 words. This means that they can understand and use a wide range of words in both written and spoken English. They also know a lot of idiomatic expressions and slang words. For example, they might say “I’m beat” instead of “I’m tired”. (“Beat” is a slang word that means “extremely tired”.)

In terms of listening, they can follow lengthy and complicated conversations and almost any type of lecture. They can pick up on subtleties and nuances (and understand different accents). For instance, they can understand when someone is joking or being critical.

In terms of speaking, they can communicate almost effortlessly. They can use a wide range of sentence structures and vocabulary. They can also use idiomatic expressions and slang words. An example of an idiomatic expression they could use is “I’m pulling your leg”. This means “I’m joking with you”.

Average Time to Reach from CEFR Level B2 to C1: around 200-300 hours.

CEFR-Level C2 (Proficiency)

1) Write texts which are logically structured and express ideas fluently and precisely.

2) Easily understand everything they read or hear.

3) Express themselves spontaneously, fluently and precisely, differentiating the finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

4) A native level.

At CEFR level C2, learners are considered proficient. As a result, they can produce texts that are effectively organized and communicate thoughts clearly and precisely. They truly get what they read or hear. They communicate with ease. In academic or professional settings, they can follow complex discussions and contribute to them effectively. They can also use language flexibly and accurately to achieve their communicative aims.

Basically, their level of English is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker.

Some examples of sentences a C2 level speaker might write:

• “The lab results show that the patient has a low white blood cell count and is also experiencing anemia. The patient is likely to experience a weakened immune system and may be susceptible to infection. Additionally, the patient’s anemia is causing them to feel tired and weak. A course of treatment involving rest, a balanced diet, and iron supplements is recommended.”
• “Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity is a scientific theory that explains the physical laws governing how objects move. It is based on the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. This means the speed of light is always the same, regardless of the observer’s relative motion. The theory of relativity has led to the development of many new technologies, such as GPS and nuclear power.”
• “The 18th century was a time of great political change. The monarchies of Europe were challenged by new ideas about government and democracy, and the people began to demand more say in how they were ruled. Many countries saw revolutions, or uprisings against the government, in this period. The American Revolution, which led to the creation of the United States, was one of the most significant political changes of the 18th century.”
• “The professor’s research indicates that the current economic model is not sustainable in the long term. He suggests that we need to find a new way of doing things if we want to avoid an environmental and economic catastrophe.”
• “The government’s proposal to raise the retirement age is causing a lot of controversy. Some people say that we need to do this to ensure the sustainability of our pension system, but others argue that it would be unfair to those who have already paid into the system.”

As you can see, C2 level speakers are able to write texts that are well-organized and communicate ideas clearly and precisely. They have a deep understanding of the language and can use it flexibly and accurately to achieve their communicative aims. They can communicate about the most advanced topics effortlessly.

In terms of grammar, proficient learners can use the full range of sentence structures and tenses. They can also use idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms. Some examples of idiomatic expressions they might use are “to kill two birds with one stone” or “to cost an arm and a leg”. These expressions mean “to accomplish two things with one action” and “to be very expensive”, respectively.

In terms of vocabulary, proficient learners have a large and varied vocabulary (around 10,000 words). They can easily find the right word to express their ideas, even if it is a rare or technical term. They are also familiar with a variety of idiomatic expressions and slang. Language registrar is also not a problem for them – they can use language appropriately in different social situations. Some examples of social situations include a casual conversation with friends, giving a presentation at work, or writing an email to a professor.

In terms of listening, proficient learners can understand extended speech, even when it is not clearly structured and when delivered quickly. They can follow lectures and talks in academic settings, and can fully understand television programs and movies. They can also understand the ideas and details of complex audio recordings on both concrete and abstract topics.

In terms of speaking, proficient learners can fluently and spontaneously speak without any effort to find the right words. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. They can produce clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on a wide range of topics. They can also interact with native speakers effortlessly.

In terms of reading, proficient learners can read a wide variety of challenging texts quickly and accurately. They can extract information from complex academic texts and understand the main ideas, even if they are not familiar with the topic.

In terms of writing, proficient learners can write clear, detailed texts on a wide range of topics. They can express their ideas fluently and naturally. They can use a variety of written genres for different purposes, and they can adapt their style to the audience and purpose.

CEFR level C2 speakers often sound like native speakers of English. This is because they have a native level of mastery of the language.

Average Time to Reach from CEFR Level C1 to C2: around 200-300 hours.

English Word Lists for Each CEFR Level

All Word Lists in Searchable Form

All Word Lists in Searchable Form (by Oxford)

CEFR Level Pre-A1 Word List (Picture Book) by Cambridge English
(Level Pre-A1 or Level A0 is the level before A1. It is used for children who are just starting to learn English, and have no prior knowledge of English.)

CEFR Level A1 Word List (Picture Book) by Cambridge English

CEFR Level A2 Word List by Cambridge English

CEFR Level B1 Word List by Cambridge English

Oxford CEFR Level Text Checker

CEFR Frequently Asked Questions

What CEFR Level Is Fluent?

CEFR level C2 is considered fluent. Fluent means that you can easily understand and use the language for any purpose, including academic, professional, and personal purposes.

What Is the Difference Between CEFR Levels C1 and C2?

CEFR level C1 is considered advanced. This means that you can understand and use the language for most purposes, including academic, professional, and personal purposes. CEFR level C2 is considered fluent. This means that you can use the language easily, quickly, and without errors.

Are Native Speakers C1 or C2?

Due to the constant decline in the education level of the general population, many native speakers of English would not be able to pass a C2 exam. However, in general, most native speakers would be able to reach at least a C1 level of proficiency.

What Is the Best CEFR Level?

The best CEFR level is C2, as this is the level that is considered fluent. However, depending on your needs, you may not be required to reach the level of fluency. For example, to immigrate to the UK, you must prove you can use English to at least level B1. So it is important to determine your needs before deciding on a goal CEFR level.

What Is a Good CEFR Level?

A good CEFR level depends on your needs. For example, if you want to study at an English-speaking university, you will need to reach at least level B2. However, if your goal is to be able to communicate with English speakers on a basic level for travel, then A2 may be sufficient.

Is CEFR Level B1 Good?

CEFR level B1 is considered intermediate. This means that you can use the language for most purposes, but you may make some mistakes. If your goal is to be able to communicate with English speakers on a basic level, then B1 may be sufficient.

How Can I Find Out My CEFR Level?

There are a few ways to find out your CEFR level. You can take placement tests, such as the Cambridge English Scale tests. You can also use online tests to help evaluate your current level, such as our English Proficiency Level test.

How to Improve My CEFR Level?

If you want to improve your CEFR level, there are a few things you can do:

• Take a placement test to assess your current level and find out which level is right for you.
• Choose a course that matches your level. If you’re not sure which level to pick, try a beginner’s course or an intensive course.
• Make sure you do the homework and practice what you’ve learned in class.
• Take advantage of resources like online dictionaries and grammar guides.
• Use English as often as you can, both in and out of class.
• Practice, practice, practice! The more you use English, the better you’ll become at it.

How Can I Get to B2 Level in English?

If you want to reach the B2 level in English, we recommend the following:

• Find a language partner or tutor to practice with on a regular basis.
• Take a course or attend a language school.
• Practice at home using resources such as eBooks and websites in English.
• Take tests and quizzes to measure your progress.
• Use English as often as you can in your everyday life.
• Be patient and persistent! Learning a language takes time, but it’s definitely possible to reach your goal.

What Is the Difference Between B2 and C1?

The main difference between B2 and C1 is that B2 is considered a “high intermediate” level while C1 is considered an “advanced” level. This means that at the B2 level, you can already communicate relatively well in English but there are still some areas that need improvement. At the C1 level, you have a very good command of the language and can communicate fluently and accurately on a wide range of topics.

Other differences between B2 and C1 include:

• Grammar: At the B2 level, you already have a good understanding of grammar but may still make some mistakes. At the C1 level, you can use a wide range of grammar structures correctly and fluently.
• Vocabulary: At the B2 level, you know around 3,000 words. At the C1 level, you know around 5,000 words.
• Reading: At the B2 level, you can read texts that are reasonably challenging. At the C1 level, you can read complex texts with ease.
• Writing: At the B2 level, you can write clear, detailed texts on a wide range of topics. At the C1 level, you can write fluently and flexibly for a variety of purposes.
• Speaking: At the B2 level, you can communicate relatively well in English but there may still be some areas that need improvement. At the C1 level, you can communicate fluently and accurately on a wide range of topics.

What Is the Difference Between C1 and C2?

The main difference between C1 and C2 is that C1 is considered an “advanced” level while C2 is considered a “mastery” or “native speaker” level. This means that at the C1 level, you have a very good command of the language and can communicate fluently and accurately on a wide range of topics. At the C2 level, you have the same level of proficiency as a native speaker of English.

Other differences between C1 and C2 include:

• Grammar: At the C1 level, you can use a wide range of grammar structures correctly and fluently. At the C2 level, you can use the language accurately and effectively for all situations.
• Vocabulary: At the C1 level, you know around 5,000 words. At the C2 level, you know around 10,000 words.
• Reading: At the C1 level, you can read complex texts with ease. At the C2 level, you can read and understand practically anything written in English.
• Writing: At the C1 level, you can write fluently and flexibly for a variety of purposes. At the C2 level, you can write accurately and effectively for all purposes.
• Speaking: At the C1 level, you can communicate fluently and accurately on a wide range of topics. At the C2 level, you can communicate naturally and effectively on all topics.

Free Practice Tests for English Learners

How Can CEFR Be Useful for Teachers?

The CEFR can be extremely useful for teachers as it provides a common framework (foundation) that can be used to plan lessons and track student progress. It can also be used to develop course materials and assess students’ level of English.

Some of the ways in which the CEFR can be used by teachers include:

• Planning lessons: The CEFR can be used to identify the specific grammar, vocabulary, and skills that need to be taught at each level.
• Tracking student progress: The CEFR can be used to track students’ progress and identify areas that need improvement.
• Developing course materials: The CEFR can be used to develop course materials that are appropriate for each level.
• Assessing students: The CEFR can be used to assess students’ level of English and identify areas that need improvement.

How to Use CEFR in the Classroom

There are a number of ways in which you can use the CEFR in your classroom. Here are a few ideas:

• Use the CEFR to plan your lessons. By identifying the specific grammar, vocabulary, and skills that need to be taught at each level, you can ensure that your lessons are well-rounded and targeted.
• Use the CEFR to track student progress. By assessing students regularly, you can identify areas that need improvement and help students to progress through the levels.
• Use the CEFR to develop course materials. By creating materials that are appropriate for each level, you can ensure that your students are challenged and engaged.
• Use the CEFR to assess students. By using the CEFR to assess students’ level of English, you can identify areas that need improvement and help students to progress through the levels.

Comparisons between CEFR and Other Scales

There are a number of other scales that are used to measure English language proficiency, such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). In addition, there are Cambridge English Exams, which correspond to The CEFR. These are:

• Cambridge Key English Test (KET) => A2 Level
• Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET) => B1 Level
• Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) => B2 Level
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) => C1 Level
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) => C2 Level

IELTS, TOEFL, and CEFR

CEFR Background Information

The CEFR was created by the Council of Europe as a way to standardize the assessment of language ability. It is now used by governments, schools, and language testing organizations around the world.

Where Did the CEFR Come From?

The CEFR was created by the Council of Europe as a way to standardize the assessment of language ability. It is based on the work of the Language Learning for European Citizenship project, which was launched in 1989.

Who Uses the CEFR?

The CEFR has been widely adopted by schools, colleges, and universities across the world for the teaching of foreign languages. The framework is also used by government agencies, testing centers, and publishers of language learning materials.

Why is the CEFR important?

The CEFR is important because it provides a common foundation for language learners and educators to use when planning language learning goals and activities. It also allows language learners to compare their own proficiency level to others learners, and to see how their proficiency level has changed over time.

Employers, schools, and immigration authorities often use the CEFR to assess English language proficiency. This allows them to compare the level of English of job applicants, students, and visa applicants from different countries. That way, they can ensure that everyone is being assessed fairly and equally.

When do the Different CEFR Levels Matter?

CEFR levels are important in places like schools, universities, and the workplace.

CEFR levels can help schools figure out which level of class is best for a student. They may also look at a student’s progress over the course of their studies using CEFR levels.

Universities may look at the CEFR levels of students who want to get in. They may also use CEFR levels to decide if a student is ready to move on to the next level of study.

CEFR levels may be used to evaluate job applicants at work. They might also be used to figure out if an employee is ready to move up in their career.

When do CEFR Levels not Matter?

CEFR levels do not always matter. For example, if you are just learning English for fun, you may not need to worry about which level you are at. You can just focus on enjoying the language and learning as much as you can.

You may also not need to worry about CEFR levels if you are already proficient in English. In this case, you can just focus on using and improving your skills.

Another example is if you are applying for a job that does not require a high level of English. In this case, your potential employer might be more interested in your ability to communicate effectively in English than your ability to write long, complicated texts and essays.

In general, CEFR levels are most important for people who are learning English as a second language and who want to use English in an academic or professional setting, or who wish to immigrate to an English-speaking country.

Final Thoughts

The CEFR is a helpful tool for assessing and measuring English language proficiency. It is used by schools, universities, employers, and government agencies around the world. If you are learning English, it is important to be aware of the CEFR levels and what they mean. Knowing your level can help you set realistic goals and track your progress.

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