What does A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2 correspond to ? Understanding CEFR English Language Levels.

Whether you are interested in learning English for work, travel, or personal growth, it may be important to help you identify your current level and set up objectives for your English course in London. In this article, we will explain what A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 mean, how each level is assessed, and how you can assess your English thanks to the CEFR scale.

A. What does CEFR English Language Levels mean? What do the letter and number refer to?

A1 to C2 attest language levels. They are determined and described in the so-called « Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) ». The CEFR serves as a standard recognized by educators and learners worldwide.

The CEFR divides English proficiency into three main categories, each with two sublevels:

A: Basic User
A1 (Beginner)
A2 (Elementary)

B: Independent User
B1 (Intermediate)
B2 (Upper Intermediate)

C: Proficient User
C1 (Advanced)
C2 (Proficiency)

Take the English Score test from the British Council to assess your current English level!

B. What does each main category correspond to?

We explain to you here what each letter and number corresponds to. You may also refer to the official CEFR description.

The letter A describes the Basic User level, subdivided into Beginner and Elementary levels. How do they differ from each other?

A1 (Beginner):

At this level, a student would usually be able to introduce themself and use simple sentences for daily life. Communication remains limited because the student lacks vocabulary and grammar knowledge. The student can understand a person who speaks slowly and clearly.

A2 (Elementary):

The student knows more common expressions and can speak about themself, and their work, go shopping, and describe a situation or an environment. They can talk about routine topics but can’t have a more developed conversation.

The letter B describes the intermediate level. Students are more independent users of the English language, but not yet proficient.

B1 (Intermediate):

Reaching this level, a student can understand more from a situation or a conversation and can also express himself with more input and details, especially if the topic is familiar. An intermediate level allows the student to use English for travelling for example or to have a basic conversation with an English speaker.

B2 (Upper Intermediate):

The student can now understand more complex texts and conversations. They can communicate fluently with native speakers and write more detailed texts as well as express opinions, feelings, and nuances.

The letter C corresponds to proficiency, from advanced proficiency to full proficiency.

C1 (Advanced):

The student speaks naturally, and spontaneously. The vocabulary is rich and diverse allowing deeper conversations and written production. The student can use English in all situations, personal or work-related.

C2 (Proficiency):

This is the highest level of language proficiency. A student reaching this level uses English at an almost native level, even in complex situations. The student feels comfortable writing and talking about any topic in English, using all resources of the language.

One tip for you: to help you assess your level without taking a test, use this free tool from the Council of Europe.

C. How can you assess and certify your English level?

English teachers can assess your level based on internal testing and assessment tools but you may also certify your English level thanks to standardized tests. You are usually assessed in four areas: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. There are various tests offered worldwide and you may attend a dedicated English course to prepare for your English exam :

• Cambridge English Exams (e.g., PET, FCE, CAE, CPE)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
• APTIS
• Trinity College London Exams
• Etc.

The score you receive after having taken the test uses the CEFR English Language Levels scale. For example, a score of 6.5 to 7.5 on the IELTS corresponds to a C1 level, while a score of 8.0 to 9.0 indicates a C2 level.

D. How can you reach a better level on the CEFR scale?

There are various methods to learn English and improve your proficiency level. You may :

• Study English in middle and high school in your country
• Take a summer English course
• Use an app
• Attend private English lessons

But one of the most efficient ways to learn English quickly and efficiently is to attend an English course in an English-speaking country. While you attend an English language course, you are fully immersed in the language, both at and outside of school. You not only learn English in class but also because you use it to communicate with teachers, other students and in your daily life.

Roberta, a Brazilian student from Nacel English School in London, explained her progress: « It was my first experience in London to study English. I wouldn´t choose better. Nacel English School has good localization, excellent teachers and staff, and the atmosphere is very friendly. The school made activities outside/extra: Camden Town, Ice Skating, Winter Wonderland, etc and a member from the school went together with the students – security for us. I loved my teacher Jonathan. After 4 weeks, I took a test and my level changed: from Intermediate (B1) to Intermediate Plus (B2). Nacel offered free Conversation Classes for some levels – it was amazing to keep in touch with students from other classes. »

Your level is assessed the first time when you start your English course at the language school. It is thus guaranteed that you attend the correct level course. You may then be assessed regularly by your teachers to monitor your progress and enrol you in the next level course. You are finally assessed at the end of your course. Your teacher can confirm the level you have reached. They may also advise you which English test is best for you to take.

Bruno, a French student who attended Nacel English School London back in 2022 commented: « Superb school with friendly and attentive staff. The social activities offered are interesting and diverse. The courses are interesting and well-structured. Personally, in 11 weeks of 21 hours/week, I went from a TOEIC score of 400 (=A2) to 850 (=B2). » Well done!

Conclusion

Understanding the CEFR English Language Levels is a good way to assess your current level and determine your objectives. Whether you’re a beginner at A1 or nearing proficiency at C2, there are numerous opportunities to improve your skills and prove your proficiency with recognized certifications. Remember, learning a language is a journey, and each step forward is an achievement worth celebrating!