The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): The meaning of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 levels.

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The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): The meaning of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 levels.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

There are no two identical persons, and this is also true for English learners. In order to provide a common framework to describe a language user's proficiency level, the European Union has established a framework of reference to describe the language ability of English users on a scale of levels from A1 (Beginners) up to C2 (Proficient users).

What is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)?

Why is it important to know my current level of English proficiency?

The University of Cambridge ESOL published the number of learning hours to advance a level of English language proficiency on the CEFR scale. [1]

CEFR level	Guided Learning Hours
C2	approximately 1,000–1,200 hours
C1	approximately 700–800 hours
B2	approximately 500–600 hours
B1	approximately 350–400 hours
A2	approximately 180–200 hours

How do I know my current English language level on the CEFR?

Cambridge Linguaskill General/Business English proficiency test is an online assessment tool to evaluate the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills of a candidate. The Cambridge Linguaskill test report shows the respective CEFR level of the four skills with a brief explanation of what the candidate can achieve at his/her current English proficiency level.

You may also estimate your current English proficiency level against CEFR by checking the Self-assessment Grids (CEFR) on the Council of Europe website.

What are the abilities that learners HAVE at different CEFR levels?

The Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE) developed a series of Can Do Statements for each of the CEFR levels, which are summarised at below:

CEFR levels	Listening/Speaking	Reading	Writing
C2	CAN advise on or talk about complex or sensitive issues, understand colloquial references and deal confidently with hostile questions.	CAN understand documents, correspondence and reports, including the finer points of complex texts.	CAN write letters on any subject and full notes of meetings or seminars with good expression and accuracy.
C1	CAN contribute effectively to meetings and seminars within own area of work or keep up a casual conversation with a good degree of fluency, coping with abstract expressions.	CAN read quickly enough to cope with an academic course, to read the media for information or to understand non-standard correspondence.	CAN prepare/draft professional correspondence, take reasonably accurate notes in meetings or write an essay which shows an ability to communicate.
B2	CAN follow or give a talk on a familiar topic or keep up a conversation on a fairly wide range of topics.	CAN scan texts for relevant information, and understand detailed instructions or advice.	CAN make notes while someone is talking or write a letter including non-standard requests.
B1	CAN express opinions on abstract/cultural matters in a limited way or offer advice within a known area, and understand instructions or public announcements.	CAN understand routine information and articles, and the general meaning of non-routine information within a familiar area.	CAN write letters or make notes on familiar or predictable matters.
A2	CAN express simple opinions or requirements in a familiar context.	CAN understand straightforward information within a known area, such as on products and signs and simple textbooks or reports on familiar matters.	CAN complete forms and write short, simple letters or postcards related to personal information
A1	CAN understand basic instructions or take part in a basic factual conversation on a predictable topic.	CAN understand basic notices, instructions or information.	CAN complete basic forms, and write notes including times, dates and places.

Source: https://web.archive.org/web/20111205075639/http://www.cambridgeesol.org/about/standards/can-do.html

Could you tell me my CEFR level if I got an IELTS 6.0 band?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English.

According to IELTS, an IELTS band score from 5.5 to 6.5 equals CEFR level B2.

CEFR level	IELTS band score
C2	9
C1	7.7 - 8.0
B2	5.5 - 6.5
B1	4 .0 - 5.0
A2	Nil.
A1	Nil.

Source: https://ielts.org/organisations/ielts-for-organisations/compare-ielts/ielts-and-the-cefr

How do I know which HKU SPACE English course fits my current level of English proficiency?

Please contact HKU SPACE English Language Team (Tell. 3762 0930 / english-info@hkuspace.hku.hk) for programme details, Linguaskill assessments or consult with our English subject programme leaders about the pathway of English trainings.

We Study • We Practise • We Master 《活學英語創展未來》

ENGLISH@HKU SPACE