English guide
CEFR Levels Explained: What A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 Mean
Updated 27 September 2026 · 3 min read
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the international standard for describing language ability. Schools, employers, universities and exams around the world use its six levels — from A1 for beginners to C2 for near-native mastery. Here is what each level really means in everyday terms.
The six levels
A1 — Beginner
You can introduce yourself, ask and answer simple questions about where you live and people you know, and understand very slow, clear speech. Start with A1 English.
A2 — Elementary
You can handle routine tasks such as shopping, ordering food and asking for directions, and describe your background and immediate needs in simple terms. See A2 English.
B1 — Intermediate
You can deal with most situations while travelling, talk about experiences, plans and opinions, and write simple connected text on familiar topics. See B1 English.
B2 — Upper intermediate
You can follow the main ideas of complex texts, take part in discussions with native speakers without much strain, and write clear, detailed text arguing a point of view. B2 is often the minimum for working or studying in English. See B2 English.
C1 — Advanced
You can understand long, demanding texts including implicit meaning, express yourself fluently without searching for words, and use English flexibly for social, academic and professional purposes. See C1 English.
C2 — Proficient
You can understand virtually everything you hear or read, summarise information from different sources, and express yourself precisely, distinguishing fine shades of meaning. See C2 English.
How long does each level take?
A common estimate is that each level takes somewhere between 100 and 250 hours of guided study, with the higher levels taking longer. Reaching B2 from zero often takes around 500–600 hours in total. Your first language, how much English you hear every day and how regularly you practise all make a big difference.
CEFR compared with IELTS
| CEFR | Approximate IELTS band |
|---|---|
| C2 | 8.5–9 |
| C1 | 7–8 |
| B2 | 5.5–6.5 |
| B1 | 4–5 |
These are approximate comparisons. An exam score measures performance on one day in a particular format, while CEFR describes what you can do in real situations. Learn more in IELTS band scores explained.
The four skills can be at different levels
It is normal to read at B2 while speaking at B1, or to understand far more than you can say. Many learners find their listening and speaking lag behind reading because they get less practice. Target your weakest skill with listening, speaking, reading and writing practice.
How to find your level
Take the free English level test: 30 questions that estimate your level on the A1–C2 scale and recommend where to start. No sign-up is needed.
What level do you need?
- Travel and everyday life: A2–B1.
- Most office jobs in English: B2.
- University study in English: usually B2–C1, often shown through an exam such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Teaching, law, medicine and professional writing: C1–C2.