How many levels are there in cefr

Таблица уровней английского языка

Согласно общеевропейской компетенции владения иностранным языком (Common European Framework of Reference, CEFR), которая была разработана в конце 20-го века, владение иностранным языком принято делить на 6 уровней. В 2001 году Совет Европы принял решение использовать CEFR для оценивания языковой компетенции в любом языке, который изучается в качестве иностранного. Согласно системе CEFR, знания иностранного языка учащихся разделяют на 3 группы, каждая из которых в свою очередь делится на 2 группы. Так выглядят уровни владения английским языком по шкале CEFR:

В этой таблице вы сможете ознакомиться со всеми аспектами английского языка, которые изучаются на различных ступенях обучения. По вертикали расположены столбцы с видами речевой деятельности (Аудирование, Говорение, Чтение, Письмо), два крайних столбца отображают, какой грамматический материал и вокабуляр изучается на каждом этапе. По горизонтали приведены уровни обучения, от Beginner до Proficiency. На пересечении строки и столбца вы сможете найти описание того, какие навыки и умения формируются и развиваются на каждом этапе.

С помощью таблицы вы сможете определить уровень своих знаний и узнать, что вы будете изучать на каждой ступени обучения.

Щелкните по изображению, чтобы посмотреть таблицу уровней английского языка на русском, или скачайте полное изображение на компьютер.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

The CEFR Levels

Some of the instruments produced within the Council of Europe have played a decisive role in the teaching of so-called “foreign” languages by promoting methodological innovations and new approaches to designing teaching programmes, notably the development of a communicative approach.

They have facilitated a fresh approach to communicating these teaching methods in a manner potentially more conducive to operational appropriation of unknown languages. By thus identifying language needs, they were able to pinpoint the knowledge and know-how required for attaining this communication “threshold.

The CEFR organises language proficiency in six levels, A1 to C2, which can be regrouped into three broad levels: Basic User, Independent User and Proficient User, and that can be further subdivided according to the needs of the local context. The levels are defined through ‘can-do’ descriptors. The levels did not suddenly appear from nowhere in 2001, but were a development over a period of time, as described below.

The CEFR: a turning point

The first specification of this “threshold level” was formulated for the English language (Threshold level, 1975), quickly followed by French (Un Niveau Seuil, 1976). These two instruments have been used de facto as models for the same type of reference instruments that were produced subsequently for other languages, but they were adapted to suit the peculiar features of each language.

In order to meet the teaching and certification requirements, the level concept as defined was extended to cover specification of levels lying immediately below and above the threshold level. In the light of the developments in this field, particularly as regards the CEFR, other levels were developed for a number of languages. These proficiency levels constitute one of the origins of the six-level scale of the CEFR.

Launched in 2001, the CEFR marked a major turning point as it can be adapted and used for multiple contexts and applied for all languages.

The CEFR is based on all these achievements and has developed a description of the process of mastering an unknown language by type of competence and sub-competence, using descriptors for each competence or sub-competence, on which we shall not go into further detail here. These descriptors were created without reference to any specific language, which guarantees their relevance and across-the-board applicability. The descriptors specify progressive mastery of each skill, which is graded on a six-level scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2).

However, for textbook authors, teachers and other professionals, the specification set out in the CEFR may appear excessively broad, particularly since individual languages are not addressed. The Reference Level Descriptions (RLD) for national and regional languages, which provide detailed content specifications for different CEFR levels, have been developed to address this issue.

CEFR : three tables used to introduce the Common Reference Levels

The following three tables, which are used to introduce the Common Reference Levels, are summarised from the original bank of “illustrative descriptors” developed and validated for the CEFR in the Swiss National Research project described in Appendix B of the volume. These formulations have been mathematically scaled to these levels by analysing the way in which they have been interpreted in the assessment of large numbers of learners.

CEFR Levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2

Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR): what are they? Why are they important? How to test your level in Italian?

CEFR Levels

In the language-learning community in Europe, we often hear people talking about their level in the language. They can say: “I speak French at a B1 level” or “I am attending an Italian language course, I am in A2 grammar and conversation class”.

But what B1 or A2 mean?
These heading are skill levels in the Common European Framework of References for Languages system, abbreviated in English as CEFR, and they are used by language learners to measure their ability in a language. CEFR is a guideline used to describe the achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries.
CEFR was established by the Council of Europe between 1966 and 1989, it aims to provide a method of learning, teaching, and assessing which applies to all languages in Europe. In November 2001 the European Council recommended using the CEFR to set up systems of validation of language ability.

What are the Different CEFR Levels?

The six levels within the CEFR are A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. These six reference levels are widely accepted as the European standard for grading an individual’s proficiency in around forty different languages. Each level is divided into four kinds of competencies (language skills), describing what a learner is supposed to be able to do in reading, listening, speaking and writing.

The A Levels: Basic User

A1 beginners:

At the A1 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand and use very basic expressions to satisfy concrete needs.
– Can introduce themselves and others, ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people they know and things they have.
– Can interact simply as long as the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

A2 elementary:

At the A2 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most intermediate areas, such as shopping, family, employment, etc.
– 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 their background, immediate environment, and matters in areas of immediate need.

The B Levels: Independent User

B1 Intermediate:

At the B1 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school or leisure-related topics.
– Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken.
– Can produce simple connected texts on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
– Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions, as well as opinions or plans in brief.

B2 Upper Intermediate:

At the B2 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand the main ideas of a complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization.
– 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.

The C Levels: Proficient User

C1 Advanced:

At the C1 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer clauses, and recognize implicit meaning.
– Can express ideas 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 organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices.

C2 Proficiency:

At the C1 CEFR level, a language learner:

– Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.
– Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
– Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.

The levels are often used casually by language learners to explain their ability at speaking, reading, writing and understanding a language. But there are also exams and certificates available to those who want to make their level official.

When do you need a CEFR levels certificates?

The CEFR is often used by employers and in academic settings.

You may need a CEFR certificate for:

– School admissions. Before you start a school course, you should test your level.
– University course requirements. To enroll in a University course in Italy you need at least a B1 level certificate.
– Employment. To work in Italy or abroad you may need from A2 to B2 level certificate, it depends on the job you are applying for.
A CEFR certificate is very useful for your CV, and they often don’t expire.

Some of your options for official examinations (or for courses with certification).

Language learners use CEFR levels for self-assessment so that they can more clearly define what they need to work on and work out, what they would like to achieve in their target language.
Some options for official examinations include:

– CELI, CILS, Dante Alighieri Society for Italian.
– IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge Exam for English.
– DELF, DALF for French.
– DELE, SIELE for Spanish.
– TestDaF, Göethe-Zertifikat for German.
– European Consortium for the Certificate of Attainment in Modern Languages for many other languages.

Is it necessary only for the professional and academic fields?

A CEFR level certificate is necessary for the professional or academic fields. Anyway, they are also very important if you want to define where you are at with your target language. If you are planning a vacation throughout Italy, for example, you may need to be at least an A2 level. This will help you to ask for a coffee, to do some shopping, to have a simple conversation with local people. CEFR levels are an important tool in a more casual language-learning environment, or if you are learning languages because you enjoy them.

How you can test your CEFR level?

You can test your Italian language level that our teacher prepared to check the Italian level of those who enroll in courses and on-line courses in our school

After you have completed the test, you will receive the results directly through your email.

Book now your next course! Just write to europass@europass.it or send a message to WhatsApp +39 339 840 4773 and we will send you all details!

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All about the CEFR

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The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is a system for measuring and describing language levels. If you would like to find out your CEFR level for English, take our 20 minute free Online English Level Test.

What is the CEFR?

The CEFR is a system that is used to measure and describe language levels for foreign language learners. It is ‘language neutral’ so it can be used for any language. It is useful to know about CEFR if you are studying English because it is often used in language schools, in educational materials such as textbooks, and exams.

It was first published in 2001 and was designed for use in Europe, to promote educational transparency (making education clear and easy to understand) and to allow movement between countries in the EU for work or study. Since then it has been translated into 37 languages and is now used all over the world, not just in Europe.

How many levels are there?

There are six levels in CEFR: A1 (lowest), A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 (highest). The “A” levels mean “basic user”, the “B” levels mean “intermediate user” and the “C” levels mean “proficient user”.

The levels are based on a series of ‘can do’ statements that describe the things you can do in the language you are learning (in this case, English). For example, at level A1 a learner ‘can introduce themselves’ and at level B2 they ‘can speak about a wide range of subjects’. The can-do statements cover five language skills: spoken interaction (having a conversation), spoken production (what you can say), listening, reading and writing.

How long does it take to move up the levels?

Of course, every learner is different, but the Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE) have created a rough guide to the number of hours of ‘guided learning’ that are needed to progress through the levels. ‘Guided learning’ means help with a teacher – this includes homework.

As you can see, the higher levels require more learning hours than the lower levels. This is why it can sometimes seem like your progress slows down as your English level increases.

What does my exam score mean on the CEFR scale?

Different English language exams have different scoring systems, but all the well-known ones can be measured on the CEFR scale. The CEFR scale is very useful in this way, because no matter which exam you take, you can always explain your result in a standard way that everyone can understand. This is helpful if you are applying for a job or to study at university, for example.

Improve your confidence in spoken English with our General English course or Individual English training in our centre in London or online.

Things to remember about levels

As a language learner, you will be keen to make progress and so of course you will want to measure your English level often. This can be a good idea – BUT there are a few things to remember when checking your level:

People make progress at different speeds, for different reasons. Your journey as an English language learner is unique to you, and so sometimes it is not helpful to keep comparing yourself to other people or continually check your level.

Try to set yourself realistic goals. Becoming fluent in a foreign language takes a long time. Don’t be too disappointed if you don’t move up the levels as fast as you expect. As long as you are practising English regularly you will be making progress.

Your level of English can go up and down over time, depending on how much you are using it in your everyday life. For example, if you get a job where you speak English every day to colleagues, your level will obviously increase. But if you move to a different job and stop using English every day, your level will probably go down. This is normal, and if you start to study or use English again you will quickly return to your previous level and even go beyond it.

You can improve your level by doing things outside the classroom. Socialising with English-speaking friends, reading the newspaper and watching films and TV in English will all help to improve your level. Find something you are really interested in, and use English as a way to learn more about it. Learning will feel like fun, instead of hard work!

This blog post was written by Harriet, one of our trainers at The London School of English

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Posted: 8 November 2018

Categories: Communication skills, Working internationally

CEFR Levels in English: Everything you need to know (and why they matter)

Updated October 13, 2021

If you are a learner of English there is no doubt you will be familiar with the CEFR. One of the most commonly used grading systems both in Europe and abroad, it can help teachers and schools to ensure that the material they are teaching is at just the right level for their students. For you, the learner, they can be a great motivator, filling you with a sense of achievement as you climb the language ladder.

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CEFR… what?

Every journey is marked by the stops you make along the way – let’s take a peek at the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, and get our heads around what they are all about!

What does CEFR level mean?

The CEFR can greatly assist us in the task of language learning. The levels clearly represent the skills that need to be mastered at each level, allowing students to better focus their time and resources in order to progress in the most time-efficient way. The levels can be daunting to a new reader.

So, let’s take another approach, and find out how the different levels can help you if you’re lonely and looking for love!

The CEFR A1 Level: Every language journey starts somewhere

Language learners at the A level are considered beginners. A1 is the very beginning – consider it the first rung of the ladder! At A1 it is possible to understand and recognise common and familiar everyday expressions, and use phrases to satisfy the most basic of needs.

You can introduce yourself, but beyond that, communication can get difficult fast! Anyone who has ever played the dating game in another language will know how frustrating, rewarding, and sometimes hilarious the experience can be.

If you’re going on a date at A1, you might be able to introduce yourself and tell your crush you like them, but not much else… good luck! But don’t worry too much… natural charm can go a long way!

The CEFR A2 Level: Seeing improvements in your language skills

Reaching A2 reflects a more confident and advanced use of language. While still at the beginner level, you can comprehend and express yourself in a more detailed way. You can tell your date a little about your opinions and interests, and talk about things happening in the present.

A2 speakers should take their date to a place where there is a lot of action happening, or something to watch– that way you’ll find a lot to talk about, and won’t get stuck as easily.

Safe topics at this level include basic conversation your family, shopping or job status, or talking about familiar aspects of your routine.

The CEFR B1 Level: Intermediate language learner

B level represents an intermediate user of language – someone who is becoming more independent in their command and deployment of the tongue. At B1, you can definitely start to flirt with confidence, although you might not be at the level yet where you realise if it’s working! This can be an exciting and productive level for learners, as the increased confidence and command of the language gives them a greater freedom to comprehend and engage with native speakers.

You can begin to use humour and tell jokes, it can be exciting and liberating to realise the freedoms that conversation can bring!

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The CEFR B2 Level: Increasing independence

B2 is the advanced-intermediate stage of the CEFR levels. At this stage, learners can take part in conversations on a range of topics, and confidently express their own opinions on more complex topics.

A B2 speaker could aim to impress with their specific technical knowledge (don’t go overboard, no one likes a know-it-all…), and explain in greater detail what they like to do. You’ll also be a lot better at figuring out how much chemistry is going on between you and your date.

At this level, there is an increasing confidence in the use of colloquialisms, informal language, and slang too, helping you sound a little more casual and relaxed.

The CEFR C1 Level: Fluent conversation

The C level represents advanced users of language – those who have the ability to take part in conversations at a more complex level. At C1, you are really starting to lay the charm on! At this point, you should be good at telling some funny stories, and using humour to lighten the mood!

If you’re more interested in learning rather than love, C1 is also advanced enough to allow for participation in an academic course, and users at this level are capable of writing on a range of subjects with good accuracy and expression.

Speakers at this level have a much higher chance of connecting and finding love! Why? Because they can express their emotions and listen to their date’s wild stories and opinions.

The CEFR C2 Level: We made it!

Finally, we come to the highest level of the CEFR, and likely the goal of most students of a foreign language, C2. Users at C2 can understand virtually everything they hear or read. At C2, you really have all the language ingredients you need for successful romance – conversation would flow more smoothly, and with the right words and just a little charm, you can be sure to make a success of your romantic encounters.

C2 speakers can express themselves with fluency and spontaneity. It can be inspiring to talk with learners who have achieved this lofty goal. With regular practice, anything is possible!

As an estimate, it takes over 1000 hours of practice to reach C2 level – talk about commitment.

CEFR Language levels – the great motivator

Research shows that the clearly defined levels of the CEFR increase the motivation of learners who enjoy progressing one step at a time up the ladder.