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Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)- Level equivalence table

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Oct 18th
CEFR

CEFR

CEFR, (The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment) is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe. Its main aim is to provide a method of assessing and teaching which applies to all languages in Europe. The six reference levels (see below) are becoming widely accepted as the European standard for grading an individual’s language proficiency. However, existing examination boards have retained their own naming conventions, so the following chart can give you an idea of the level equivalences among them.

 CEFR

 Click on the table to enlarge (PDF)

 

The CEFR describes what a learner is supposed to be able to do in reading, listening, speaking and writing at each level.

Level

Description
A1 Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. 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.
A2 Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.
B1 Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
B2 Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
C1 Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
C2 Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.

 

Further information:

• CEFR

• Escuelas Oficiales de Idiomas

• Cambridge ESOL

• IELTS

• TOEFL

• TOEIC

• ALTE

• BULATS

 

Key words and abbreviations: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, Breakthrough, Waystage, Threshold, Vantage, Effective, Operational, Proficiency, Mastery, EOI (Escuela Oficial de Idiomas), Nivel Básico, Nivel Intermedio, Nivel Avanzado, Ciclo superior, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages – University of Cambridge), KET (Key English Test), PET (Preliminary English Test), FCE (First Certificate in English), CAE (Certificate in Advanced English), CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English), IELTS (International English Language Testing System – British Council), TOEFL IBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet Based Test), TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication), ALTE (Association of Language Testers in Europe), BULATS (Business Language Testing System).

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