CEFR Levels Explained (A1 to C2): What They Mean and Which Level You Need
What each CEFR English level (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) means in practice, how the levels compare with IELTS and TOEFL scores, and how to find your own level for free.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the international standard for describing language ability. Universities, employers and exam boards use its six levels — from A1 to C2 — so knowing your level helps you choose the right course and set realistic goals.
The six levels
| Level | Name | What you can do |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Understand and use very basic expressions; introduce yourself and ask simple personal questions. |
| A2 | Elementary | Talk about familiar topics such as family, shopping and work in simple sentences; handle routine exchanges. |
| B1 | Intermediate | Deal with most travel situations; describe experiences and plans; understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar topics. |
| B2 | Upper-intermediate | Interact fluently with native speakers on a wide range of topics; understand the main ideas of complex texts; write clear, detailed texts and give opinions. |
| C1 | Advanced | Use English flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes; understand long, demanding texts and implicit meaning. |
| C2 | Proficient | Understand virtually everything; express yourself spontaneously and very precisely, even in complex situations. |
How CEFR compares with exam scores
The table below is an approximate guide. Official comparison tables are published by each exam provider, and requirements always depend on the institution.
| CEFR | IELTS | TOEFL iBT (1–6) |
|---|---|---|
| C2 | 8.5–9 | 6 |
| C1 | 7–8 | 5–5.5 |
| B2 | 5.5–6.5 | 4–4.5 |
| B1 | 4–5 | 3–3.5 |
| A2 | — | 2–2.5 |
Which level do you need?
- Travel and everyday life abroad: B1 is comfortable.
- Undergraduate study abroad: usually B2 to C1 (for example, IELTS 6.0–6.5).
- Postgraduate study: often C1 (for example, IELTS 6.5–7.0).
- Work in an international company: B2 for regular use; C1 for negotiation, presentations and client-facing roles.
- Specialist professions (law, medicine, engineering): C1, plus the vocabulary of your sector.
Common mistakes when judging your level
- Judging only by speaking. Many learners speak confidently at B2 but write at B1 — and exams test all four skills.
- Confusing vocabulary with level. Knowing many words doesn’t mean you can use them accurately.
- Starting an exam course too early. Exam preparation works best from B1 upwards. Below that, build general English first.
Find your level in 15 minutes
Our free level test adapts to your answers, includes listening questions, and gives you a CEFR level from A1 to C1 in about 15 minutes — with course recommendations for your level and your goal, whether that’s an exam, your career or your sector.
Frequently asked questions
What CEFR level do I need to study at a university abroad?
Most universities ask for B2 or C1, depending on the programme. Check the exact test score they require, for example IELTS 6.5 or a TOEFL band.
How long does it take to move up one CEFR level?
Often between 150 and 200 hours of guided study and practice per level, but it varies a lot with your starting level, how often you study and how much you use English.
Is B2 good enough for work?
B2 is enough for most jobs where English is used regularly: meetings, emails and calls on familiar topics. Roles that involve negotiation, presentations or legal and technical writing often need C1.
How can I find my CEFR level?
Take a placement test. Our free 15-minute level test gives you a CEFR level from A1 to C1 and recommends courses that match it.