How to reach c2 level

How to reach c2 level

At this level you can understand:

Virtually everything heard or read with ease

All spoken language at a fast, native pace

Abstract, structurally complex text and literary writings

Virtually everything heard or read with ease

All spoken language at a fast, native pace

Abstract, structurally complex text and literary writings

Proficient

Proficient (EF SET score 71-100)

How to tell if you’re at an C2 level in English

The best way to tell if you are at a C2 level in English is to take a high-quality standardized test. Several standardized tests cannot measure the C2 level, so if you think you may be at a C2 level, choose a test that can measure that level accurately. See below for a list of major recognized tests and their corresponding C2 scores:

Score equivalent to the C2 level¹

For full score comparisons, please visit our English Score page

What can you do with a C2 level in English?

A C2 level of English is essentially a native level. It allows for reading and writing of any type on any subject, nuanced expression of emotions and opinions, and active participation in any academic or professional setting.

According to the official CEFR guidelines, someone at the C2 level in English:

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 him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.

C2 level English skills in detail

The official can-do statements are broken down into smaller chunks for teaching purposes. This more detailed skill breakdown can help you assess your own English level, or help a teacher assess a student’s level. For example, a student at the C2 level in English will be able to do all the things that a student in level C1 can do, and in addition he will be able to:

discuss issues related to science and technology, including robots and new inventions.

talk about celebrities, celebrity activism and gossip about celebrities.

use a variety of techniques for promoting creativity in your speech and writing.

discuss financial planning and give and understand advice about personal finance.

talk about stress in your life and the lives of friends and colleagues.

discuss techniques for doing research on a wide range of topics.

Although progress will depend on the type of course and the individual student, students can expect to reach the C2 level in English with 1000 hours of cumulative instruction.

Английский на уровне C2: реально ли его достичь и как это сделать

Кажется, изучение английского, как ремонт, — никогда не заканчивается. Хотя формальный предел существует — уровень C2 (Proficiency). Мы разобрались, реально ли его достичь, сколько это требует времени и действительно ли он нужен, если уровня С1 (Advanced) вполне вполне достаточно для жизни, учебы и работы за границей.

Какие есть уровни языка, и в чем принципиальное отличие C2

Общеевропейская шкала владения иностранным языком (Common European Framework of Reference, CEFR) выделяет шесть уровней: А1, А2, B1, B2, C1, C2.

Свободное владение языком начинается на уровне С1:

C1 — Уровень профессионального владения (Effective Operational Proficiency — Advanced)

C2 — Уровень владения в совершенстве (Mastery — Proficiency)

Proficiency — уровень, на котором человек говорит на английском так же хорошо, как на родном. Но чем он отличается от С1, который тоже вполне подходит и для работы, и для учебы?

Уровень С2 характеризует не столько словарный запас и грамматика (они мало отличаются от запаса на С1), сколько точность и художественность высказываний и количество задач, которые может решить на языке человек.

С2 — это владение практически как у носителя языка, то есть умение не только точно и развернуто высказать свое мнение, но и пользоваться разными стилями речи, выражать мысль художественно, понимать и передавать тонкие оттенки смысла.

Уровня С2 достигнуть можно, что подтверждают экзамены.

У любого уровня CEFR есть критерии, любого уровня можно достичь. Но список тем для общения и словарный запас увеличиваются неравномерно — перейти с А1 на А2 можно быстро, а с С1 на С2 и года не хватит. Но как человек, подтвердивший С2 Кембриджским сертификатом, могу точно сказать — С2 достижим после многих лет обучения с преподавателем и самостоятельного чтения, просмотра фильмов, прослушивания песен, аудиолекций и других внеклассных занятий.

Уровень Proficiency предполагает отличное знание формального английского. С ним вы можете не только смотреть онлайн-курсы или свободно вести рабочую переписку, но и учиться в англоязычной докторантуре, а также общаться в высокопрофессиональной среде, где даже не каждый носитель будет чувствовать себя уверенно.

Нужен ли C2, если вы не живете в англоязычной стране

Получается, что С2 нужен только для особых задач, например поступления на PhD. Возникает вопрос: действительно ли этот уровень необходим, если ты не живешь в стране, где язык используется ежедневно.

Даже когда живешь вне страны изучаемого языка, уровень С2 может требоваться в ряде профессий. Например, переводчику, бизнесмену, преподавателю — зависит от круга задач, которые человек решает. Замечательный преподаватель английского Полина Кордик из Санкт-Петербурга не только сама владеет несколькими языками и недавно в очередной раз сдала Кембриджский экзамен на уровне С2, но и ее ученики показывают очень высокие результаты на международных экзаменах. Таких результатов не достичь, если сам преподаватель не владеет языком на очень высоком уровне, так как ему надо понимать и уметь объяснить тонкости словоупотребления и других аспектов языка.

Также С2 может требоваться тем, кто любит сам язык, хочет полностью понимать фильмы, книги, понимать то, что носители языка подразумевают, даже когда они этого не говорят напрямую. Большинству людей, конечно, можно обойтись без уровня C2, но нужно исходить из того, чем человек занимается.

Тут дело не в том, живешь ты в этой стране или нет. Основной вопрос: для чего вам нужен C2? Любой уровень английского языка нужно поддерживать, но особенно высокий. Чтобы его достичь, нужно огромное количество времени и сил. Если язык вам нужен только для путешествий или командировок и у вас не нет цели сдавать международные экзамены, я не вижу особого смысла работать на C2.

Если живешь в стране языка, часто хочется иметь уровень C2, чтобы чувствовать себя увереннее — поскольку эта ступень больше про чувство и ощущение, контекст и культуру. И иногда всем нам хочется блеснуть умом. Даже в русском языке, когда мы знаем его хорошо, мы стараемся использовать сложные выражения, изысканные фразы, блистать цитатами из литературы в нашей речи. В этом случае C2 — то, что вам нужно, без него будет сложно.

Мне С2 нужен для учебы на англоязычных программах и для преподавания на высоких уровнях. Думаю, для остальных людей главные причины — учеба и работа. А бонусом идет удовольствие от фильмов и книг на английском — вы можете оценить юмор, исторические и культурные отсылки.

Какие проблемы возникают чаще всего на этапе перехода с С1 на С2

Профессор Кембриджского университета Джек Ричардс написал подробную статью «Moving Beyond the Plateau» о проблемах, с которыми люди сталкиваются при переходе с одного уровня языка на другой. Есть пять основных:

Зачастую проблема в лексике — на уровне C2 она сложная. Тут есть психологический момент: в повседневной речи мы используем простые выражения — это менее энергозатратно, и мы точно знаем, что нас поймут правильно. Заставить себя использовать более сложные версии простых слов — это отдельная работа.

Еще один важный момент — мотивация. Когда у вас уже уровень C1, вы можете подумать: «Я уже знаю английский на высоком уровне. Я не хочу сидеть и делать эти дурацкие упражнения на отработку грамматики».

К тому же, есть сложности с поддержанием уровня — здесь все упирается в возможности нашего мозга. Если мы не используем что-то ежедневно, мозг отправляет знания в архив. Есть хорошая метафора: достижение уровня похоже на подъем по ледяной горке — нужно очень сильно разогнаться и забраться с разбега. Чтобы перепрыгнуть с C1 на C2, вам придется усердно поработать. Смотрите фильмы, слушайте музыку, ищите интересные фразы — сделайте из изучения языка ежедневную рутину.

Какие есть подходы к достижению C2

Итак, достичь уровня С2 можно — нужно только очень постараться. Но как это сделать? Нужно ли покупать курсы, нанимать репетитора или можно справиться со всем самостоятельно? И на чем сделать акцент?

Если у вас уровень С1, то вы вполне можете справиться самостоятельно. Тут возникает вопрос мотивации и подбора материалов. Хотя бы на этапе выбора учебника или любого другого источника информации для подготовки не помешает обратиться к эксперту. А еще на С2 есть тонкости лексики и грамматики, которые лучше осваивать вместе с преподавателем.

Здесь подойдет подход с фокусом на лексике и аутентичными материалами (статьями, фильмами, сериалами, академическими текстами в оригинале). Можно выучить кучу грамматических правил и конструкций, но не зная слов, мы не сможем их использовать в общении.

Прежде чем выбрать свой вариант, спросите себя:

Это поможет вам определиться, нужен ли вам репетитор, или вы в состоянии учиться самостоятельно.

Сколько времени займет путь до С2

На сайте Кембриджских экзаменов по английскому есть таблица с примерным количеством часов, которые человек должен потратить для достижения разных уровней английского.

Для С2 нужно 1 000–1 200 часов активных занятий. Если заниматься три часа в неделю, понадобится около семи лет, пять часов в неделю — около четырех лет.

Для сравнения: уровня С1 можно достичь за 700–800 часов, то есть за пять лет при занятиях по три часа в неделю.

How to Reach C2 Level in English

Justlearn

Speaking a foreign language like a native sounds like a dream come true.

Every learner’s goal is to achieve this level.

Some succeed, but some find it difficult, almost impossible to reach that goal.

It is possible to reach the C2 level in English and there are many living proofs around you.

You can do it too.

It takes dedication and hard work, but you can do it if you want to.

Today we’ll help you get there by sharing some useful and proven tips.

Yes, you can reach C2 level in English with our tips!

How can I measure my language competence?

There is a system to measure the language competence and it’s quite easy to follow.

According to the CEFR, C2 in English is the sixth and final level of the English language.

Common European Framework of Reference (abbreviated CEFR) is a guideline that describes the achievements of foreign languages in Europe. It was established by the Council of Europe between 1989 and 1996.

Back in 2000, when talking about foreign languages, it was recommended that CEFR systems of validation become valuable.

So, the European standard has become widely accepted with six levels of language proficiency.

Language proficiency levels

The language proficiency levels are commonly known as CEFR levels.

According to CEFR, there are six levels of language proficiency.

The higher the number and the letter, the higher the language knowledge and competency.

Let’s take a glimpse at all six of them and their descriptions.

Source: Cambridge English

A1 Beginner

A person with A1 level can understand basic expressions and everyday phrases.

They can introduce themselves, answer elementary questions about some personal details such as their name, place to live, people they know.

So, a beginner can ask and answer the following questions:

A2 Elementary

When a learner reaches the A2 level, they can understand expressions that relate to family, shopping, local geography, work.

They can describe most of the previously mentioned topics.

The A2 speaker can cope with the following questions:

B1 Intermediate

An intermediate level speaker can easily describe events, ambitions, dreams, give explanations about plans, and deal well with conversations abroad. He can also explain, with simple words and phrases, topics that are familiar and or share some personal interests. If you want to be a tourist that travels to the country and speak their language, then you should be able to be at least at the B1 level.

B2 Upper-intermediate

The fourth level, or upper- intermediate’s achievements are: understanding some complex texts both on concrete and abstract topics; interaction with native speakers with ease; the possibility to explain a viewpoint giving the advantages and disadvantages of many possible options.

C1 Advanced

C level is marked as the level of a proficient user. An advanced speaker can understand long and well-structured sentences, express ideas and thoughts spontaneously, use the language fluently not only in conversations but in social and academic purposes as well. Learners that are on the C1 level don’t have to spend time searching for a suitable phrase or expression. They come kind of naturally.

C2 Proficiency

The last and the most demanding level of language proficiency is C2. Speakers can easily understand everything- from concrete to abstract topics, easily can lead any kind of conversation, and can express themselves with ease and spontaneously even in the most complex situations.

This is the highest level qualification which shows that you’ve mastered English to an outstanding level.

There is a belief that the C2 level equals native-like fluency. There is no learner who doesn’t want to achieve this point.

It sounds quite easy, doesn’t it?

Some would ask, where is the catch?

There is no specific catch.

The only one is taking the test along with learning and trying to achieve the C2 level before taking the test.

CEFR offers tests, so by taking one, you get your language proficiency.

But to get there, you have a lot of work to do.

Where can you take the test and get the certificate?

Cambridge English is certified for preparing and providing exams.

Their CPE, Certificate of Proficiency in English, corresponds to the C levels of CEFR.

On their site, you can find some practice materials.

And not only that, but you can also see when you can take the test.

Learn more: C2 Proficiency

What does the test look like?

When taking the test, you have to show various linguistic skills. Therefore, the test is divided into several parts:

Writing

The writing part usually consists of two parts where you have to write different texts like essays, letters, or reports.

Listening

The listening part of the test consists of listening materials such as interviews, speeches, etc. After listening to the audio, you need to answer some questions about the topic.

Reading

This part of the test shows how you can cope with different types of texts. Topics can be different: from manuals, across fiction books, to journals and newspapers.

Speaking

This part tests your ability to communicate. For the C2 level, you have to be able to effectively communicate face to face.

Tips on how to get C2 in English

As mentioned, you have to work a lot before you get to a satisfying level.

Now you know what the procedure looks like, where to find sample papers etc. But that’s not all.

English Proficiency Levels: A Guide to Determining Your Level

Understanding English Levels with CEFR

The Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for language ability and comprehension. This standard includes 6 distinct English levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Some institutions also recognize the pre-A1 level, though it is not as common. What do these designations actually mean about your English abilities?

All CEFR language levels were originally created by the Council of Europe in order to standardize language ability. These standards are used to determine language ability for speakers all over the world. Let’s take a closer look at each English level to see what they mean:

A1 – Beginner (Basic)

The A1 level refers to speakers who have a basic grasp of the English language. If you are at the A1 level, you can understand some common phrases and words in English. You can ask and answer simple questions (i.e. How old are you? Where do you live? What’s your favorite color?).

Your interactions will be relatively basic, and you may need other people to speak slowly with you in order to understand.

This level is common among those who have only been studying English for a short time (less than 6 months) or those who have not studied English for many years and do not practice regularly.

A2 – Beginner (Basic)

At the A2 level, you can speak in full sentences and phrases on simple topics. Your vocabulary covers a broader array of subjects than it did at the A1 level, but your interactions are still limited to direct exchanges of information.

You can likely have a full conversation about yourself and various parts of your life. While your listening comprehension has improved, you might still need others to speak slowly or repeat themselves from time to time.

This level is common among adults in their first year of study or those who have not studied English for many years.

B1 – Intermediate (Independent)

Once you reach B1 level English, your English abilities are at the “intermediate” level. This means that you can speak and understand English for matters related to your daily routine. You can also be much more descriptive about your life and experiences. Finally, you can talk (using relatively simple terms) about more abstract or subjective topics, like aspirations, dreams, or opinions.

This level is common among adults who have been continuously studying English for more than one year or those who have the opportunity to practice English on a semi-regular basis.

B2 – Intermediate (Independent)

The B2 level is often referred to as the “upper intermediate level.” As a B2 English speaker, you can take part in conversations on a variety of concrete and abstract topics. You may not know a lot of technical vocabulary, but you can still convey complex thoughts, explanations, experiences, or concepts with moderate accuracy.

This English proficiency level is common among adults who have been studying English for several years and practice regularly.

C1 – Advanced (Proficient)

Once you have reached the C2 level, you are considered an advanced student of the English language.

You now have a firmer grasp of more complex grammar structures, implicit meaning in both text and speech, as well as the ability to speak English fluently in almost any environment. Though you will naturally make some errors from time to time, they are likely small and infrequent.

In order to reach the C1 level, you will likely need to study English formally for several years and practice speaking or reading English on a regular basis. This level of English proficiency is common among those who have lived in an English-speaking country for an extended period of time.

C2 – Advanced (Proficient)

C2 is the highest assessment of all 6 CEFR levels.

At this level, you can understand the vast majority of English, spoken or written, that you encounter. Though you may make rare errors, your proficiency is near or equal to that of a native English speaker. You can understand the finer nuances of tone, pacing, and word choice, even in complex texts or situations.

C2 level speakers have likely been studying English for many years, practicing the language regularly or even on a daily basis with native speakers.

How to Determine your English Proficiency Level

Great! Now you know the 6 different English proficiency levels. But how can you determine your own English level? While the summaries above may give you a rough idea of where you are on a scale from A1 to C2, you’ll want to test your abilities in order to know for sure. You can easily check your English level with our free English speaking test.

Additionally, there are a number of free online resources and English proficiency tests to help you assess your English abilities:

We recommend using more than one source to test yourself, as no single test will give you a perfect assessment. Learning how many words you know is yet another fun way to find out your English level.

IETLS, TOEFL, and CEFR

You can also gauge your English level by evaluating your scores on the IETLS or TOEFL. Here’s a helpful chart to see what your scores mean for your English level:

That being said, these tests are designed to give you a general idea of where you stand on the CEFR English scale. Once you know your English level, you will be in a better position to develop a study plan that is right for you!

Few products in the market give you real human assessment of your speaking skills. Even when you take an expensive in-person test, say IELTS for example, and get your grades/level back, you still don’t know how to improve from where you are now. Today, we are bringing you two bonuses.

How much time will it take a beginner to reach a B2/C1 level Russian language proficiency by self-learning?

Is it possible to reach a B2/C1 in Russian in 4

5 years, when I have no prior experience with Russian or any related language?

I’m studying Russian 1 hour a day every single day. Is this enough? I’m currently using Duolingo and basic Russian books. How far can I go with this?

Also, once I’m done with the books, what else can I do?

Here are some of the books I’m currently reading:

My learning method (if you call it that) is basically listening, writing and repeating what’s in the book.

I’m planning to watch some Russian tv shows/movies once I get a decent understanding of the language.

3 Answers 3

I am going to assume that your native language is a Germanic language (English or German?). The CEFR or CEFRL describes skill levels for four skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing. At CEFR level B2 you should have the following abilities (quoted from Wikipedia):

The activities described in the question take care of the skills of listening, reading and writing, but don’t do a lot for speaking skills because repeating dialogues is insufficient. In order to practise oral skills, you need to find speakers of Russian you can interact with. This can be done by taking language classes (check in advance whether they are sufficiently oriented towards communication!), finding a private teachers (expensive, unless you find a group of four or five other people to share the expense) and/or finding a language partner (the cheapest solution, but do not treat tandem partners as teachers). Benny Lewis is the most outspoken advocate of practising oral skills and goes as far as saying that you should speak from day one. (This is not for everyone, even though Benny Lewis says it is.)

Finally: how long would this take? That depends on many factors, such as the efficiency of your learning method, your choice of learning materials (i.e. their quality and level), your study schedule (avoid 60-minute sessions; spread your learning over the day; use the Pomodoro technique to avoid long sessions) and possibly talent.

The Belgian language school where I learnt most of my Chinese offers 7 years of Russian language classes: the first three years take you to level A2; years 4-7 take you to level B1. Each «school year» has 120 classroom hours and you should spend 1-2 hours per week on the language at home. That’s roughly 7 times 180 hours, or 840 hours in total, to reach level B1 (not B2!). So 1100 classroom hours may be just enough to reach level B2, as Vitaly says in his answer, but you should add at least 400 hours of private study to that. So I guess that at a rate of 1 hour per day, you can reach level B2 in just over four years.