The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. It’s widely used across Europe and increasingly worldwide to assess language proficiency. Whether you’re learning a new language, taking an exam, or applying for a job, understanding CEFR levels can be incredibly helpful.

The CEFR divides language learners into six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. These levels are grouped into three broader categories:

A: Basic User

A1 (Beginner): 

At this level, you can understand and use very basic everyday expressions and simple phrases aimed at the satisfaction of concrete needs. You can introduce yourself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where you live, people you know, and things you have.

A2 (Elementary): 

You can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). You can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

B: Independent User

B1 (Intermediate): 

You can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. You can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. You can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.

B2 (Upper Intermediate): 

You can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your field of specialization. You can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. You can 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.

C: Proficient User

C1 (Advanced): 

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

C2 (Mastery): 

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

Understanding your CEFR level can help you set realistic learning goals, choose appropriate learning materials, and effectively communicate your language proficiency to others.