Understanding CEFR Language Levels: A Guide to Language Proficiency

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a globally recognized system used to assess and describe language ability. From beginners who know just a few words to advanced learners who can communicate fluently and with nuance, the CEFR breaks down language proficiency into six levels. This guide covers what each level means, how they differ, and why the CEFR can be helpful for learners, educators, and even employers.

The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is a valuable tool for language learners, providing a structured framework with six proficiency levels—A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. This framework helps learners assess their current abilities and set realistic goals for advancement. Language learning products like Assimil often use these levels as a benchmark, helping learners understand what they can achieve with consistent study.

For those new to Assimil, my post on How to Use Assimil offers practical tips on maximizing this resource, which is designed to guide learners through gradual steps toward proficiency. By following its structured lessons, learners can work towards specific CEFR levels. You might see this used in marketing for other language learning products probably more so in Europe where the use of CEFR is more common.

Each CEFR level is grouped into three broad categories: Basic User (A1 and A2), Independent User (B1 and B2), and Proficient User (C1 and C2). Here’s a breakdown of each level:

• Description: Answer simple questions about personal details, such as where you live, your age, and your family. Your vocabulary is very limited, and your grammar is minimal, but sufficient for short, basic interactions where the other person is speaking slowly and clearly. This level focuses on functional language for everyday needs, allowing you to perform essential tasks with simple language structures.
• What You Can Do: You can understand and use familiar, everyday expressions and simple phrases. You can ask and respond to basic questions and understand simple greetings and polite expressions. A1 speakers can also give simple information about themselves and follow slow, clear speech, though they may need others to repeat or rephrase. Reading at this level allows for understanding of signs, labels, and short, familiar words.
• Real-World Example: At this level, you might be able to say hello, introduce yourself, and use basic phrases like “please” and “thank you” when travelling. In a store, you could ask for items or prices and understand straightforward responses, provided they’re given slowly. In a social context, you could say a few words about yourself, like your name, nationality, or occupation, but you’d likely struggle with anything more detailed. Writing-wise, you can fill out forms with personal information or leave brief notes with simple phrases. At this level, your language skills are very limited, but you can manage fundamental tasks in everyday situations.

• Description: At the A2 level, you have a basic but practical command of the language, allowing you to handle everyday tasks that involve simple exchanges of information. You can understand sentences and common expressions related to topics such as personal background, shopping, local geography, and employment. A2 speakers can communicate in routine, straightforward situations and can describe aspects of their life, like family, work, and immediate needs, in basic terms. Although your vocabulary is limited, it is sufficient for meeting immediate needs, and your grammar allows for simple but effective communication.
• What You Can Do: You can ask and answer questions about familiar topics and handle short, clear exchanges that do not require fast or complex speech. You’re able to understand phrases and high-frequency vocabulary related to areas of personal relevance and can follow basic directions, instructions, and signs. You can also express simple ideas about your routine, immediate surroundings, and direct personal needs.
• Real-World Example: At this level, you might be able to introduce yourself to others, ask for directions in a foreign city, and make basic purchases while travelling. In a work setting, you could share information about your role, handle basic inquiries, or respond to straightforward requests. Socially, you might manage to talk about your hobbies, family, or the weather in simple terms, though you might struggle with more detailed conversations. Writing-wise, you could compose brief messages, fill out forms with personal details, or write short, simple notes, which can be very functional for daily situations.

• Description: At the B1 level, you are considered an independent user with a practical grasp of the language that allows you to manage most day-to-day situations. You can understand and discuss straightforward topics related to work, school, leisure, and family, handling familiar contexts with ease. While you may still find it challenging to express yourself in more abstract or unfamiliar areas, you can generally make yourself understood in routine situations, offering explanations, sharing experiences, and describing events. Your vocabulary is suitable for most basic interactions, and your grammar is effective enough for clear, if sometimes imperfect, communication.
• What You Can Do: You can take part in conversations about everyday activities and personal interests, ask and answer questions, and describe dreams, plans, or past events. You’re able to understand the main points of messages or announcements, and you can follow general information from news articles, TV shows, or radio programmes. You’re also able to produce simple, connected text on familiar subjects and share your views on common topics.
• Real-World Example: At this level, you might be able to travel abroad with confidence, making arrangements, ordering food, and handling basic shopping interactions. In a work setting, you could describe your job, explain a simple process, or ask for and follow instructions. Socially, you could participate in conversations about family, hobbies, or local events, even if you may need some help to follow along with faster speakers. Your writing skills would enable you to draft short emails, make notes, or write brief paragraphs on familiar topics, making you quite functional in everyday, routine interactions.

• Description: At the B2 level, you are considered an independent language user who can confidently handle conversations on a range of topics, including technical or abstract ones within your area of expertise. You can understand the main ideas of complex texts and discussions, especially on subjects that are familiar or of personal interest. A B2 speaker can interact with native speakers with relative fluency, making it possible to have detailed conversations without much strain for either party. Your vocabulary is well-developed, and you can express opinions, argue points, and respond to differing viewpoints effectively. Writing at this level is generally clear and well-organised, allowing you to convey detailed information on familiar topics.
• What You Can Do: You can participate in discussions about everyday topics as well as more specialised subjects, comfortably expressing ideas, giving advice, and supporting arguments. You can follow news broadcasts, podcasts, and films in the target language, even if they contain occasional idioms or slang. Additionally, you can summarise information from various sources and produce written content that is organised and clear.
• Real-World Example: At this level, you might feel at ease giving a presentation on a familiar topic, debating viewpoints with friends, or leading a meeting. You could participate actively in a work meeting or a university seminar, understanding the main points and responding appropriately. In a social context, you can follow conversations with groups of native speakers, even if they are lively or fast-paced, and contribute without feeling out of depth. Your writing skills would allow you to draft emails, reports, or essays that are detailed and coherent, ideal for a range of professional and academic situations.

• Description: At the C1 level, learners demonstrate an advanced command of the language, allowing them to communicate fluently, accurately, and spontaneously on a wide range of complex topics. They can understand long texts, discerning both explicit information and implied meanings, and they’re able to handle demanding academic or professional environments with confidence. A C1 speaker can engage in detailed discussions, express themselves clearly, and adjust their tone and style to suit formal or informal contexts. Writing at this level shows a well-developed vocabulary, accurate grammar, and the ability to structure arguments or narrate experiences with nuance.
• What You Can Do: You can contribute to conversations on abstract, complex, or specialised subjects, using the language flexibly and effectively. You’ll be able to hold discussions with native speakers comfortably, articulating thoughts on a broad spectrum of topics, including professional and academic issues, without much search for words. You can read sophisticated material, such as literary texts, reports, and research papers, and produce detailed, well-structured writing on topics that are intellectually or emotionally significant.
• Real-World Example: At this level, you might read and discuss current affairs articles, scientific journals, or novels with ease, and you can participate fully in meetings, seminars, and presentations, making a solid impression. In the workplace, you could negotiate terms, conduct interviews, or contribute to high-level projects, all while conveying ideas with clarity and subtlety. Socially, you can join in on fast-paced conversations, even if they include humour, idioms, or cultural references, allowing you to navigate diverse settings comfortably.

• Description: At the C2 level, you have achieved mastery in the language and can use it as effectively as a highly educated native speaker. Learners at this level understand virtually everything they hear or read, even when it involves complex or abstract language. You can express ideas with precision, adapting your speech or writing to any situation, whether it’s informal or highly formal. Additionally, you’re adept at interpreting nuance, tone, and implicit meaning, which enables you to pick up on subtleties and implied context in conversations or written texts. In professional and academic environments, you’re able to summarise and synthesise detailed, technical information from various sources, and you can produce clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex subjects.
• What You Can Do: You’re capable of engaging in spontaneous, fluent conversations with ease, switching between different registers or styles depending on the context. In discussions, you can articulate ideas on abstract, complex, or technical topics, responding with clarity and depth. You’re able to follow and contribute to fast-paced dialogues, even those that include idiomatic or culturally specific expressions. Your writing is nuanced, allowing you to create persuasive arguments, detailed explanations, and critiques, whether drafting a report, an article, or creative writing.
• Real-World Examples: You might read academic papers or advanced literature with ease, extracting meaning and critiquing different points of view. In a workplace setting, you could prepare and present a detailed report on a specialised subject to a diverse audience, adapting language to ensure everyone understands. In social contexts, you could comfortably join a discussion about a film, play, or political event, contributing informed opinions and engaging with the subtleties of the topic. You might even translate or interpret between languages without losing nuanced meaning, demonstrating complete mastery and flexibility in your language use.

• The CEFR levels are more than just labels—they offer clear benefits:
  1. For Learners: Knowing your CEFR level helps set realistic goals. By understanding where you are on the scale, you can focus on what’s needed to reach the next level, ensuring efficient and targeted learning.
  2. For Educators and Test Providers: The CEFR gives teachers a structured way to design courses and exams. Many standardized tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, and DELF, align with CEFR levels, making it easier to prepare students for these exams.
  3. For Employers and Academic Institutions: Companies and universities often require certain CEFR levels for international applicants. This standardization allows employers and admissions offices to make informed decisions about a candidate’s language abilities.

You can determine your CEFR level in several ways:

• • Self-assessment: The CEFR provides “can-do” statements for each level. By going over these statements, you can get a rough sense of your abilities. See the image below for an example.
  • Online Tests: Many online language schools and platforms offer free assessments based on CEFR guidelines.
  • Teacher: If you have a teacher who is familiar with the CEFR they can provide a good estimate of your level based on your performance in class. They can assess your strengths and areas for improvement across the different language skills (like listening, speaking, reading, and writing) and give you a realistic view of where you stand on the CEFR scale.
  • Certified Exams: Official language exams like IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, and Goethe Zertifikat provide formal certification of your CEFR level.

The CEFR provides a clear, reliable framework for assessing language proficiency. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to perfect your language skills, understanding these levels can make learning a language feel more structured and achievable. With each level you reach, you’ll find yourself more capable, confident, and ready to engage in richer, more meaningful conversations in your target language.