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English Levels: CEFR Language Levels A1 to C2

CEFR language levels are the six steps of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the Council of Europe's scale for describing language ability, from A1 to C2. They fall into three bands: Basic User (A1, A2), Independent User (B1, B2) and Proficient User (C1, C2). Each level says what you can do in a language, not how many points you scored.

For how the framework was built and how levels are assessed, see our CEFR guide. To find your speaking level on this scale, take the English Speaking Test.

CEFR English Levels — A1 to C2 six-step scale
CEFR language levels A1 to C2 and what you can do at each
LevelDescription
A1BeginnerBasic UserUse everyday phrases, introduce yourself and ask simple questions about familiar things.
A2ElementaryBasic UserHandle routine exchanges such as shopping and directions, and describe your background.
B1IntermediateIndependent UserManage most travel situations, talk about familiar topics and describe experiences and plans.
B2Upper-IntermediateIndependent UserWrite detailed text on many subjects, discuss abstract topics and talk with native speakers without strain.
C1AdvancedProficient UserUnderstand demanding, longer texts and implicit meaning, and use English flexibly for work and study.
C2ProficientProficient UserUnderstand almost everything you read or hear, summarise sources and express fine shades of meaning.
Find your CEFR level →

Which level are you?

Three questions for a rough starting point.

Can you have a conversation about everyday topics without much difficulty?

Can you read longer articles and understand the main ideas and most details?

Can you discuss complex, abstract or technical topics fluently and precisely?

CEFR Levels

A1 Beginner English Level icon

A1 English Level

Beginner English for simple everyday expressions, introducing yourself and asking basic questions.

Learn more about A1 →Take the A1 test →
A2 Elementary English Level icon

A2 English Level

Elementary English for simple, familiar exchanges — shopping, directions and talking about your background.

Learn more about A2 →Take the A2 test →
B1 Intermediate English Level icon

B1 English Level

Intermediate English for everyday conversations, travel and familiar work or study situations.

Learn more about B1 →Take the B1 test →
B2 Upper-Intermediate English Level icon

B2 English Level

Upper-Intermediate English for complex ideas, abstract topics and professional contexts with fluency.

Learn more about B2 →Take the B2 test →
C1 Advanced English Level icon

C1 English Level

Advanced English for demanding texts, implicit meaning and precise, flexible use in academic or professional settings.

Learn more about C1 →Take the C1 test →
C2 Proficient English Level icon

C2 English Level

Proficient English — the highest CEFR level, with effortless comprehension and nuanced expression.

Learn more about C2 →Take the C2 test →

Language proficiency levels

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is one of the most widely used frameworks for language proficiency levels, and it includes six main levels:

  • A1

    A1 (Beginner)

    Basic language skills, able to understand and use simple expressions related to everyday life.

  • A2

    A2 (Elementary)

    Can handle straightforward communication in familiar situations and express simple ideas.

  • B1

    B1 (Intermediate)

    Competent in everyday interactions and can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling or living in a foreign country.

  • B2

    B2 (Upper Intermediate)

    Can communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity, and understand more complex texts on familiar topics.

  • C1

    C1 (Advanced)

    Proficient in a wide range of demanding tasks, understand complex texts, and express ideas with clarity and precision.

  • C2

    C2 (Proficient)

    Effortless, highly precise command of English across complex contexts, while remaining distinct from being a native speaker.

How does the CEFR scale work?The framework defines what a learner can actually do at each of the six levels, which is why an A1–C2 result means the same thing across countries and institutions.

Read the CEFR guide →

Get your English level certificate

  • ✓Get a personalized English level certificate
  • ✓Add your CEFR levels to your resume.
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FAQ: English Levels

What is English level?
The term “English level” typically refers to a person’s proficiency or skill level in the English language. English proficiency levels are commonly categorized using frameworks like the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or other language proficiency scales. The CEFR divides English proficiency into six main levels: Beginner (A1, A2), Intermediate (B1 B2), Advanced (C1, C2).
What are the three CEFR bands?
The CEFR groups its six levels into three bands: Basic User (A1 and A2), Independent User (B1 and B2) and Proficient User (C1 and C2).
What are the official names of the CEFR levels?
The Council of Europe calls them Breakthrough (A1), Waystage (A2), Threshold (B1), Vantage (B2), Effective Operational Proficiency (C1) and Mastery (C2). Most courses and tests use the simpler labels Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, Advanced and Proficient.
Is B2 or C1 the fluent level?
There is no single answer, because what counts as fluent varies by organisation. At B2 you can follow most conversations and speak with native speakers without strain on either side. At C1 you can use English flexibly and precisely for demanding work and study. Each organisation sets its own English requirements, so check what yours asks for.
What is A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2?
Language proficiency levels A1-C2 refer to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). They are; A1 – Beginner A2 – Elementary B1 – Intermediate B2 – Upper-Intermediate C1 – Advanced C2 – Proficient
How long does it take to move up an English level?
Roughly 150–200 hours of guided study for the early levels, and more at each step up — the jump from B2 to C1 is usually the longest. Progress depends far more on regular exposure and speaking practice than on total hours.
How can I check my English level?
Take the English Level Test: 60 questions, about 30 minutes, with a CEFR-aligned result at the end. A certificate is optional, from £12.99.
What is the difference between CEFR, ILR and ACTFL?
They are three different scales for the same idea. CEFR (A1–C2) is the European standard used across Europe and by many universities worldwide; ILR (0–5) is used by US government agencies; ACTFL (Novice to Distinguished) is common in US education. A CEFR level is the one most institutions outside the US ask for.