Language proficiency levels according to the CEFR

Common European Framework of Reference

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) categorises language skills into proficiency levels, thereby making it easier to place learners in courses that match their language level. There is a broad division into three proficiency levels – A, B and C – each of which is further subdivided into two sub-levels (e.g. A1 and A2).

It is not usually possible to clearly distinguish between the first and second halves of a level (e.g. A2.1 and A2.2) for our courses, as a term is generally too short to complete half a level in full. We therefore include the term in the course title. Depending on the language, as well as the group size and the participants’ learning pace, it takes between three and five terms (60 to 100 teaching hours) to complete a level (e.g. the full A1 or A2 level).

Below is an overview of the proficiency levels according to the CEFR, together with the corresponding skills to be achieved at each level. The skills listed are therefore not prerequisites for taking a course at the relevant level, but rather the learning objectives.

If you would like to take a placement test, you will find a link at the bottom of the page where you can find information on tests for various languages.

Basic Language Use – Beginner Level

Level A1

By the end of Level A1, you will be able to:

x understand sentences and frequently used expressions relating to areas of immediate relevance (e.g. information about yourself and your family, shopping, work, the immediate surroundings),

x communicate in simple, routine situations involving a straightforward and direct exchange of information on familiar and everyday matters,

x describe, in simple terms, one’s own background and education, one’s immediate surroundings and matters relating to one’s immediate needs.

Level A2

By the end of Level A2, you will be able to:

x understand and use familiar, everyday expressions and very simple sentences aimed at meeting specific needs,

x introduce yourself and others, and ask other people questions about themselves – e.g. where they live, what sort of people they know or what sort of things they have – and answer questions of this kind,

x communicate easily, provided that the people they are talking to speak slowly and clearly and are willing to help.

Independent use of language – intermediate level

Level B1

By the end of Level B1, you will be able to:

x understand the main points when clear, standard language is used and when the subject is familiar matters relating to work, school, leisure, etc.,

x cope with most situations you might encounter whilst travelling in the language area,

x express themselves simply and coherently on familiar topics and personal interests,

x talk about experiences and events, describe dreams, hopes and goals, and give brief reasons or explanations for their plans and views

Level B2

By the end of the B2 level, you will be able to:

x understand the main points of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics; in your own field of specialisation, you will also be able to follow specialist discussions,

x communicate so spontaneously and fluently that a normal conversation with native speakers is perfectly possible without any great effort on either side,

x express themselves clearly and in detail on a wide range of topics, explain their viewpoint on a current issue, and outline the pros and cons of various options.

Competent use of language – Advanced

Level C1

By the end of the C1 level, you will be able to:

x understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and grasp even implicit meanings,

x express yourself spontaneously and fluently without having to search for words very often,

x use the language effectively and flexibly in social and professional contexts, or in further education and university studies,

x express themselves clearly, in a structured manner and in detail on complex issues, making appropriate use of various means of linking text elements.

Level C2

By the end of Level C2, you will be able to:

x understand practically everything you read or hear with ease,

x summarise information from various written and spoken sources, presenting reasons and explanations in a coherent manner.

x express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, and convey subtle nuances of meaning even when dealing with more complex issues.

Take the placement test

Find out about the options for taking a test in different languages.

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