English levels

Talk to our advisors to understand your English level and register for a course

Book a consultation

If you are trying to determine your level of English proficiency, you may be familiar with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). But do you know what it is? Well, it is a way of describing language ability and is often used to help language learners choose learning materials and courses at the right level.

The CEFR has six levels, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for users who are proficient in the language. Levels are divided into three blocks: A or basic user, B or independent user and C or proficient user. For each level, the CEFR describes what a learner can do when speaking, reading, listening, and writing in English.

If you need to prove your level of English for study, work, or moving to another country, the CEFR allows you to compare the results or level obtained in examinations such as IELTS, Aptis or Cambridge with those required by educational or other institutions and organisations.

Level and equivalence	IELTS
A1 - Elementary	-
A2 - Pre-Intermediate	3.5
B1 - Intermediate	4-5
B2 - Upper intermediate	5.5-6.5
C1 - Advanced	7-8
C2 - Proficiency	8.5-9

A1 English level

At the A1 level, you communicate using familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases. You can introduce yourself and others and ask and answer simple questions about personal details.

A2 English level

At the A2 level, you communicate with frequently used expressions in everyday situations. You interact in simple information exchanges and describe things around you and what you need.

B1 English level

At the B1 level, you understand information about familiar topics. You communicate in most situations while traveling in an English-speaking area and write simple texts on familiar topics.

B2 English level

At the B2 level, you understand the main ideas of complex texts, interact with some fluency, and communicate easily. You write texts on a wide range of topics and express your opinions

C1 English level

At the C1 level, you understand long and complex texts, interact, and express yourself fluently and spontaneously, and use language flexibly and effectively in several situations.

C2 English level

The highest level is C2, which allows you to easily understand almost everything you hear or read. You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously with precision in complex situations.