What is CEFR Certified Levels?
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It is an international standard to describe the proficiency of all languages. In easy words, CEFR is a benchmark to assess, how well a student can communicate in a foreign language.
CEFR Levels: Studying abroad often requires a series of examinations which are often broadly classified into language proficiency (like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DSH, DELF, etc.) and aptitude tests (GRE, GMAT, SAT, etc.). While the aptitude tests may or may not be required depending on the country you are applying to, However, universities ask for language proficiency test scores at the time of admission.
They, however, differ in the degree of proficiency required for different courses and that is where CEFR comes into the picture. In fact, you would have come across the term pretty often. So what is CEFR and what are the various levels required for studying abroad? In this article, we will inform you everything about what is CEFR and what are CEFR Levels.
Check: Which Exam to Give for Which Course to Study Abroad
What is CEFR?
CEFR or the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching and Assessment is a reference standard, developed and set by the Council of Europe as part of a project called the “Language Learning for European Citizenship.” Developed to create a standard that can be used as a normal scale to measure proficiency in various languages spoken in the European continent, this is now widely used by universities abroad to set language proficiency markers. The system was designed as a validation of language ability for non-native speakers of the language.
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A student can understand CEFR as a guideline that measures a non-native speaker’s ability to communicate in a foreign language. This could be valid for any foreign language, namely German, French, English or Spanish.
Levels of CEFR
Broadly speaking the scale is divided into three levels of proficiency, on a six-point scale, – Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced (A1 is for beginners and C2 for those who have mastered a language). Here’s what they refer to:
CEFR Level Group |
Level |
Description |
|---|---|---|
| A - Basic User |
A1 - Beginner |
The level refers to a very basic understanding of the language wherein the person is able to understand the commonly used phrases, can introduce him/herself and describe where they live, etc. The person with an A1 level is often not able to speak well nor able to understand the language well until and unless spoken to very slowly and deliberately and with assistance. |
| A2 - Elementary |
A little improvement over A1, the A2 level refers to the ability to communicate about the everyday requirements in the language. The person is able to understand day-to-day expressions and describe the immediate environment and answer routine and direct questions. |
|
| B - Independent User |
B1 - Intermediate |
This level is more than the previous in terms of the ability of the person to communicate with relevant ease in the language. Can relatively travel with ease, communicate his/her requirements in a manner understandable and can communicate in relatively well-formed sentences in areas of interest...but not all areas. The person is also able to communicate his/her opinion in a better manner. |
| B2 - Upper Intermediate |
In terms of improvement over the B2 level, the basic understanding of the language remains the same but there is a relatively marked improvement in spontaneity and fluency of responses. The candidate can produce and use clear detailed sentences and communicate with the native speaker with ease. Also, the level also signifies an improvement in the manner of expressing his/her opinions. |
|
| C - Proficient User |
C1 - Advanced |
The C Level refers to the advanced levels of proficiency of the language and relates to a level which signifies the person can speak, write and converse in the foreign language with ease. The fluency is also highly improved and the vocabulary is also distinctively well developed. This level refers to the ability of a person to use the language in academic or professional settings with efficiency and ease. |
| C2 - Proficient |
This is the highest level of proficiency, referring to the candidates’ ability to communicate in a foreign language without any restrictions/ concerns. The fluency and vocabulary is further embellished with the person's ability to argue and present his/ her point of view and also discern the finer nuances of the language. In other words, this is as close as a person gets to speaking the language as a native. |
Check: Study Abroad Without IELTS
CEFR Certified Levels and Their Corresponding Score for Various Language Exams
As already mentioned above, the language requirements might vary from university to university and country to country. In fact, some universities in the same country might ask for a different level of proficiency. Also, often the degree of proficiency required might vary from course to course. For instance, a university in Germany requires you to clear the B2 level while another might ask for C1. Also, the same university might require a C1 level for its undergraduate courses and perhaps only a B2 level for a master’s program. This is due to the varying levels of understanding required. (Also read exams for Germany). Often universities require you to have a certain score. Here’s a list of the various levels the different language proficiency exams refer to.
Language |
Certificate |
A1 |
A2 |
B1 |
B2 |
C1 |
C2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English |
IELTS |
2.0 |
3.0 |
3.5-4.5 |
5.0-6.0 |
6.5-7.5 |
8.0-9.0 |
| English |
TOEFL (iBT) |
10-15 (speaking) |
42-71 (total) |
72-94 (total) |
95-120 (total) |
||
| English |
PTE Academic |
30 |
43 |
59 |
76 |
85 |
|
| French |
CIEP / Alliance Française Diplomas |
TCF A1 / DELFA1 |
TCF A2 / DELFA2 |
TCF B1 / DELF B1 |
TCF B2 / DELF B2 |
TCF C1 / DALF C1 |
TCF C2 / DALF C2 |
| German |
TestDaF |
TDN 3 — TDN 4 |
TDN 4 — TDN 5 |
In simpler words, say for instance a University suggests that they need a minimum of B2 level of CEFR proficiency, then for the English Language you would need a minimum of 59 in PTE Academic, 72 in TOEFL iBT or at least a 5.0 in IELTS. The same applies to French and German.
Read More: Questions before availing Shiksha Counseling Service
FAQs Related CEFR Level
Q.What is CEFR Level?
A. CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It is an international standard to describe the proficiency of all languages. In simple words, CEFR is a benchmark to assess, how well you can communicate in a foreign language. Top universities in the world often use CEFR levels to set requirements for admission and to ensures that students have the required language skills.
Q. What are CEFR levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2?
There are different levels of CEFR that represent proficiency in a language. They range from complete beginner (A1) to mastery (C2). Here is table that will help you to understand CEFR levels and their meaning:
Level Group |
Level |
|---|---|
| A - Basic User |
A1 - Beginner |
| A2 - Elementary |
|
| B - Independent User |
B1 - Intermediate |
| B2 - Upper Intermediate |
|
| C - Proficient User |
C1 - Advanced |
| C2 - Proficient |
Q: What is the IELTS exam passing score?
Q: What is a good IELTS score?
A good IELTS score can vary depending on your specific goals, such as study abroad requirements, visa applications, or employment opportunities. Different institutions and organizations may have different score requirements, so it is essential to research and understand the specific score expectations for your intended purpose. In general, a score of 6.5 or higher is considered a good IELTS score. However, this may differ based on the individual's needs and the requirements of the institution or organisation they are applying to.
Some universities and programs may have higher score requirements, especially for competitive programs or fields of study. It is crucial to review the score requirements of the institutions or organizations you are interested in and aim to achieve a score that meets their criteria. Additionally, consider your own personal goals and requirements when determining what constitutes a good IELTS score for you. Get more details at What is a good IELTS score?
Q: How can I prepare for IELTS exam?
Shiksha Study Abroad has introduced a new, 1-month free online IELTS course to help students prepare for their IELTS Exam. Students associated with Shiksha get complementary free IELTS training for a month. This programme aims to help students prepare for studying abroad without any additional costs.
Starting in early February 2024, the course has already attracted over 1,000+ participants. Shiksha Study Abroad reports impressive results: 80% of students have succeeded in their goals, with the average participant achieving an IELTS score of 7.0.
Key Features of Free IELTS Training
Some of the key features of the Shiksha Study Abroad Free IELTS Training programme typically include:
- Live online classes are accessible from anywhere and on any device
- 1 Month Free Training - Option to choose from Weekend and Weekday Batches
- Learn from experienced British Council and Cambridge-certified trainers
- Coverage of all IELTS modules: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking
- Option for students to retake classes if needed at 0 cost
- Mock Tests for the students to practice before the exam
Q: How can I know my IELTS test centre?
One can check their IELTS test centre details on the IELTS login account. Candidates ave to visit the official IDP IELTS website, enter the login credentials and check the details of test centres.
Q: Which is the best book for IELTS preparation?
Q: Is IELTS exam hard to crack?
The difficulty of the IELTS exam varies from person to person and largely depends on individual English proficiency levels and preparation strategies. Many candidates find certain sections, such as Writing and Speaking, to be challenging due to the need for well-structured responses and fluency.
However, with adequate preparation and practice, many test-takers find the exam manageable. Understanding the test format and focusing on weak areas can significantly improve performance, making it easier to achieve the desired band score.
Q: How to crack IELTS on the first attempt?
Yes, it is possible to clear the IELTS exam in the first attempt. Many test takers achieve their desired scores in their initial attempt with proper preparation, study, and understanding of the exam format. Success in the IELTS exam depends on various factors, including your existing English language skills, familiarity with the test format, preparation strategies, and overall test-day performance. By dedicating sufficient time and effort to study, practising with sample questions and mock tests, and familiarizing yourself with the test structure and timing, you can increase your chances of achieving your target score.
It is important to note that individual results may vary, and success in the IELTS exam depends on personal factors and preparation. Some test takers may require multiple attempts to reach their desired scores. Regardless of the outcome, treat each attempt as a learning opportunity and use the experience to identify areas for improvement. Seeking guidance from experienced tutors or attending preparatory courses can also be beneficial in enhancing your preparation and performance in the exam.
Q: Are two months enough for IELTS exam preparations?
The sufficiency of two months for IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam preparation depends on several factors, including your current English language proficiency level, the target band score you are aiming for, and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying. Two months can be a reasonable timeframe for focused and intensive preparation, especially if you already have a solid foundation in English. During this time, you can familiarize yourself with the test format, practice sample questions, develop test-taking strategies, and work on improving your skills in the specific sections of the exam: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
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2 years ago
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3 years ago
Hello Nikhil. Most universities in the US are looking for IELTS and TOEFL scores. However, the admission criteria are very university-specific and you can take a look at the popular universities in the US and know about their individual eligibility requirements here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com
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3 years ago
Hello Manjeet. Thank you for writing in. You can know more about Algoma University here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/canada/universities/algoma-university You can check out more universities in Ontario along with admission details here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/canada/universities-in-ont
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5 years ago
There is no pass or fail in the IELTS exam. Students taking the IELTS exam are graded on their performance in the IELTS test using Bands from 1 – 9 for each skill of the test: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. Candidates would also receive an overall band score which would be the average of all the individual scores received by the candidate and rounded to the nearest half band. The IELTS exam does not have a passing score. Universities abroad would have an IELTS minimum score requirement which is often referred to as the IELTS cut-off. This is the minimum score that candidates need to achieve to apply to the university. Candidates should note that getting the minimum IELTS score does not guarantee admission to the university. Candidates are required to score higher than the expected IELTS cut-off.