English levels of proficiency

English level descriptors (CEFR A1-C2).

What are the English levels?

English levels describe the different levels of proficiency in order to support language learning, language teaching and language assessment. The most common level descriptors are:

Classic levels: These divide language proficiency into three levels. Basic (Low), Intermediate (Medium) and Advanced (High).

CEFR levels: The Common European Framework of Reference for language learning (CEFR) divides language ability into six levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2) and gives an internationally-recognised description of each level.

English level descriptors

Each CEFR level has a detailed description of what language learners can do, and there are guidelines of the total study hours required to complete each level.

Click on each English level for an overview of the “Can do” targets.

BASIC

90-100
study hours

180-200
study hours

INTERMEDIATE

350-400
study hours

500-600
study hours

ADVANCED

700-800
study hours

1000-1200
study hours

Free online English test

Our free online test assesses your English level of proficiency.

Take one of the most detailed free English tests online with instant results that match the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR) which standardises assessment of languages.

You can order your English level of proficiency certificate after taking our free online English level test. The certificate gives a breakdown of your results and includes the CEFR descriptors for each English level.

A1 CEFR English level

At the end of English level A1, you can:

understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.
introduce yourself and others.
ask and answer questions about personal details (for example, where you live, people you know and things you have.
interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

Learn more about the study targets for English level A1 and try out some free English lessons.

A2 CEFR English level

At the end of English level A2, you can:

understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to common areas (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment).
communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information.
describe in simple terms aspects of your background and immediate matters.

Learn more about the study targets for English level A2 and try out some free English lessons.

Take an English course

Take your English skills to the next level with an English course that is designed for your individual needs. Study English with a qualified English trainer either online or face-to-face.

You can focus on developing English fluency for the workplace with Business English, Exam preparation for an official English proficiency certificate or General English to improve your overall communication skills.

B1 CEFR English level

At the end of English level B1, you can:

understand the main points on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.
deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an English-speaking area.
produce simple connected text on topics, which are familiar, or of personal interest.
describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

Learn more about the study targets for English level B1 and try out some free English lessons.

B2 CEFR English level

At the end of English level B2, you can:

understand the main ideas of complex text on a variety of topics, including technical discussions in your field of specialisation.
interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Learn more about the study targets for English level B2 and try out some free English lessons.

Get your English level certificate

C1 CEFR English level

At the end of English level C1, you can:

understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning.
express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.
use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.
produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, with controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.

Learn more about the study targets for English level C1 and try out some free English lessons.

C2 CEFR English level

At the end of English level C2, you can:

understand virtually everything heard or read with ease.
summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
express yourself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

Learn more about the study targets for English level C2 and try out some free English lessons.

Our English level descriptors are adapted from the international CEFR framework. This is set out by the Council of Europe (2001) Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: learning, teaching, assessment.