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CEFR levels: What does they mean?

You have seen in some of our descriptions the CEFR definition and you wonder what they mean? How are the CEFR levels defined? You ask also what CEFR level do you have?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages abbreviated with CEFR sometimes also abbreviated with or CEFRL, is an international standard for proving your ability of a language. It was established by the Council of Europe and aims to validate your language ability in a international standard and therefore comparable way.

Table of Contents

  1. CEFR level A1 (Beginner)
  2. CEFR level A2 (Elementary)
  3. CEFR level B1 (Intermediate)
  4. CEFR level B2 (Upper Intermediate)
  5. CEFR level C1 (Advanced)
  6. CEFR level C2 (Proficiency)

There are six levels within the CEFR. They are A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. With these levels, you can easily prove your language skills in around 40 different languages.
Sometimes you also see CEFR 0, which is not a real level but means the person has no ability at all in what particular language. Sometimes you may also see CEFR C2+ or CEFR C3, which often means that the person is nearly or even a native speaking person.

Often the levels are used explain the individual ability of the language. But if you aren't a native speaker you should to prove your skill level by taking the exams and certifications for the particular language. Especially if you are B2 or below. This will help you and of course your credibility to prove your level of speaking, writing and of course the most crucial thing: understanding.

Let us take a deeper look into the CEFR levels:

1. CEFR level A1 (Beginner)

At the CEFR level A1, you can:

  • Understand and use very basic expressions to satisfy concrete needs.
  • Introduce themselves and ask others questions about personal details.
  • Interact simply as long as the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

2. CEFR level A2 (Elementary)

At the CEFR level A2, you can:

  • Understand frequently used expressions in most intermediate areas such as shopping, family, employment, etc.
  • Complete tasks that are routine and involve a direct exchange of information.
  • Describe matters of immediate need in simple terms.

3. CEFR level B1 (Intermediate)

At the CEFR level B1, you can:

  • Understand points regarding family, work, school or leisure-related topics.
  • Deal with most travel situations in areas where the language is spoken.
  • Create simple texts on topics of personal interest.
  • Describe experiences, events, dreams, and ambitions, as well as opinions or plans in brief.

4. CEFR level B2 (Upper Intermediate)

This level is mostly the minimum and entry level which is needed for a full-time employment. At the CEFR level B2, you can:

  • Understand the main ideas of a complex text such as a technical piece related to their field.
  • Spontaneously interact without too much strain for either the learner or the native speaker.
  • Produce a detailed text on a wide range of subjects.

5. CEFR level C1 (Advanced)

At the CEFR level C1, you can:

  • Understand a wide range of longer and more demanding texts or conversations.
  • Express ideas without too much searching.
  • Effectively use the language for social, academic or professional situations.
  • Create well-structured and detailed texts on complex topics.

6. CEFR level C2 (Proficiency)

At the CEFR level C2, you can:

  • Understand almost everything read or heard with ease.
  • Summarize information from a variety of sources into a coherent presentation.
  • Express themselves using precise meaning in complex scenarios.