Working on improving your English? Whether it’s for school or for work, each learner has their own level of ability when it comes to speaking and writing. 

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language. It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered the language. Through this scale, learners and teachers can more easily track your present ability and growth. 

Here are the different levels used in the CEFR:

A1 – BEGINNER

An A1 level learner is able to engage in conversations that use familiar, everyday expressions and very basic phrases. They can also introduce and share personal details about themselves and others in conversations. 

A2 – ELEMENTARY

When you’ve achieved A2 level, you can respond to matters that have an immediate reference to them but are expressed in a more familiar context and routine manner. You can communicate with frequently used expressions and are able to describe aspects of yourself in simple terms. 

B1 – INTERMEDIATE

The B1 learner understands and expresses topics that are familiar or of personal interest to them. They can handle certain situations that may be encountered while traveling in a particular area. 

B2 – UPPER INTERMEDIATE

If you’re a B2 learner, that means you can understand and discuss a wide range of topics both concrete and abstract. You are also able to explain your stance on certain topical issues. In addition, you can converse with native speakers spontaneously and fluently to a certain degree.

C1 – ADVANCED

A C1 learner engages in conversations that use familiar, everyday expressions and very basic phrases. They can introduce and share personal details about himself and others in conversation. 

C2 – PROFICIENCY

Finally, a C2 learner can respond to matters that have immediate relevance to them but also expressed in a more familiar context and routine manner. Like the A2 learner, they can communicate with frequently used expressions and describe aspects of themselves in simple terms. 

Level up on your CEFR Proficiency!

English learning platforms such as I Speak Better use the CEFR. With the CEFR, you can easily determine your current skill level and know how much you’ve learned.