The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard used to describe a person’s language ability. It divides English proficiency into six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).
| Level | Description | What you can typically do |
|---|---|---|
| A1 – Beginner | Can understand and use very basic English. | Introduce yourself, ask simple questions, understand familiar words and phrases, and communicate in basic everyday situations. |
| A2 – Elementary | Can communicate in simple, routine situations. | Talk about family, work, shopping, travel, and daily activities using basic vocabulary and grammar. |
| B1 – Intermediate | Can handle most familiar situations independently. | Understand the main points of everyday conversations, describe experiences, give opinions, and write simple connected texts. |
| B2 – Upper-Intermediate | Can communicate clearly and confidently on a wide range of topics. | Follow more complex discussions, express ideas in detail, understand most standard English, and write well-structured texts. |
| C1 – Advanced | Can use English effectively and flexibly for social, academic, and professional purposes. | Understand demanding texts, speak fluently, express ideas precisely, and adapt language to different situations. |
| C2 – Proficient | Can understand and communicate at a highly sophisticated level. | Understand virtually everything heard or read, express ideas precisely and naturally, and handle subtle differences in meaning and style. |
The four language skills
CEFR levels can be assessed across four main skills:
- Listening – understanding spoken English
- Reading – understanding written texts
- Speaking – communicating ideas and interacting with others
- Writing – producing clear and appropriate written English
A person may have different levels in different skills. For example, someone might have B2 speaking but C1 reading.
What do the levels mean in practice?
A1–A2: You can manage basic everyday communication.
B1–B2: You can communicate independently in most everyday, academic, or workplace situations.
C1–C2: You can use English confidently, accurately, and effectively in complex situations.
CEFR levels are used by schools, universities, employers, and language-testing organizations around the world to provide a common way of describing English proficiency.