Today we’ll look at English Levels A1 – C2 and the Equivalents. Let’s find out what the English levels by European framework are! The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages includes what each level involves, what its equivalents are in Cambridge exams and other options.
English Levels (A1 – C2) According to the Common European Framework
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) was established by the European Council. It aims to standardize the levels of language exams in each country. Today, it establishes a common framework for forty different languages.
How important are CEFR levels?
CEFR levels are useful in professional and academic fields. You may need a level certification to:
- School admissions
- Requirements for university courses
- Access to professional positions
- Access to the Spanish Administration
What does each English level (A1 – C2) mean?
All languages have six. But what people really want to know is “what” they mean.
What exams can I take in English to give me a CEFR reference?
The most common exams you can take in English to give you a CEFR level are the Cambridge exams, but other alternatives, such as the TOEFL, TOEIC and Military SLP exams, are also available.
You can get a description of each exam HERE.
The easiest way to see each level and their equivalent is in TABLE FORM.
A1 (Typical Elementary Level)
A student with CEFR level A1 can:
- Understand and frequently use everyday expressions without thinking.
- Introduce yourself and ask others for personal information.
- Respond at an elemetary level when someone speaks slowly and clearly.
A2 (Typical Basic Level)
A student with CEFR level A2 can:
- Understand frequently used expressions in relevant areas of expertise, such as shopping, family, occupation, etc.
- Carry out everyday tasks that require nothing more than simple exchanges of information.
- Describe in simple terms issues related to your immediate needs.
B1 (Typical Intermediate Level)
A student with CEFR level B1 can:
- Understand points related to family, work or leisure issues.
- Participate when you travel in areas where the language is spoken.
- Produce simple texts on topics of personal interest.
- Describe experiences, events, dreams and ambitions, as well as briefly justify your opinions and plans.
B2 Advanced
A student with CEFR level B2 can:
- Understand the main ideas of complex texts, such as technical content related to their field of expertise.
- Relate effortlessly and naturally with other speakers.
- Produce detailed texts on various topics.
C1 (Advanced Typical Level)
A student with CEFR level C1 can:
- Understand a wider range of more complicated and extensive texts and conversations.
- Express ideas without obvious signs of effort.
- Make effective use of the language for social, academic and professional purposes.
- Produce well-structured and detailed texts on topics of some complexity.
C2 Mastery (Typical Level of Full Competence)
A student with CEFR level C2 can:
- Easily understand virtually everything you hear or read.
- Summarize information from a variety of sources and present it consistently.
- Express yourself accurately in more complex situations.
What official English exams certify me with CEFR levels in reference to English Levels A1 – C2 and what are the equivalents?
The most common English level exams are the official Cambridge exams. However, there are other alternatives, such as the TOEFL exam, the TOEIC exam and the SLP military examinations.
In this table you will find each level and its equivalent.
MCERL level | Cambridge level | IELTS score | TOEFL score | TOEIC score | SLP rating |
A1 | Movers | Na | Na | Na | Between 0 and 1 |
A2 | Ket | Na | Na | Listening and reading 225 Speaking and writing 160 | Between 1 and 2. Mainly 1 |
B1 | Pet | 4 – 4,5 | 57-86 | Listening and reading 550 Speaking and writing 240 | Between 1 and 2, mainly 2 |
B2 | First Certificate | 5- 6,5 | 87-109 | Listening and reading 785 Speaking and writing 310 | Between 2 and 3, mainly 2 |
C1 | Advanced | 7-8 | 110-120 | Listening and reading 945 Speaking and writing 360 | Between 2 and 3, mainly 3 |
C2 | Proficiency | 8,5-9 | Na | Na | Between 3 and 4, mainly 4 |
How can I study for an English exam?
Don’t miss our post with Tips for Passing Oral English Exams. We’ll update our blog with information about other skills, so subscribe and don’t miss anything!
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