The Common European Framework is designed in a grid— like format divided into six separate levels from a basic to
proficient speaker. The grid analyzes proficiency based on understanding, speaking, and writing — all important
functions to determine fluency in a language. The Common European Framework range from levels A1 (Basic) to C2
(Proficient). Read through each description as it
relates to your English fluency and ask yourself the following questions. Then, narrow down which level applies to
you:
Six Levels of English
| Level |
Description |
| A1 — Basic |
You know you are in A1 Basic when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you use and understand familiar everyday expressions and phrases?
- Can you introduce yourself and others?
- Can you ask and respond to questions about personal details (i.e., where you live, people you
know, things you have, etc.)
- Can you interact in a simple way if English is spoken slowly, clearly and if they are prepared
to help?
|
| A2 — Basic |
You know you are in A1 Basic when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you understand sentences and common expressions to explain current information (e.g. basic
personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment)?
- Can you communicate about simple, familiar and routine tasks?
- Can describe in simple terms your background, immediate environment and matters in areas of
immediate need?
|
| B1 — Independent |
You know you are in B1 Intermediate when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you understand the main ideas of standard input on familiar matters that may occur in work,
school, leisure, etc.?
- Can you deal with most situations when traveling in a place where English is spoken?
- Can you write simple text on familiar topics?
- Can you describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions? Then, are you able to
give reasons, opinions, plans and explanations for them?
|
| B2 — Independent |
You know you are in B2 Intermediate when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics,
including technical discussions of your field?
- Can you fluidly interact with native speakers without the strain for either party?
- Can you produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a an
issue with the advantages and disadvantages?
|
| C1 — Proficient |
You know you are in C1 Proficient when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you understand a range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning?
- Can you express fluent and spontaneous thoughts without much searching for expressions?
- Can you use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes?
- Can you produce clear, well— structured, detailed texts on complex subjects, showing controlled
use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices?
|
| C2 — Proficient |
You know you are in C2 Proficient when you answer “yes” to the
following:
- Can you easily understand virtually everything heard or read?
- Can you summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing
arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation?
- Can you express yourself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer
shades of meaning even in the most complex situations?
|
Now that you know your level, you are on your way to improving your English skills. You can also check your language
fluency by taking one of the
CEFR-approved language exams that will test your abilities at that level.
