Understanding English Levels with CEFR

The Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for language ability and comprehension. This standard includes 6 distinct English levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Some institutions also recognize the pre-A1 level, though it is not as common. What do these designations actually mean about your English abilities?

All CEFR language levels were originally created by the Council of Europe in order to standardize language ability. These standards are used to determine language ability for speakers all over the world. Let’s take a closer look at each English level to see what they mean:

A1 – Beginner (Basic)

Average Time to Reach A1	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
1-3 months	Simple questions and answers, information about oneself, very common and familiar topics	60 WPM or less	Very basic knowledge with frequent errors	Situation-specific

The A1 level refers to speakers who have a basic grasp of the English language. If you are at the A1 level, you can understand some common phrases and words in English. You can ask and answer simple questions (i.e. How old are you? Where do you live? What’s your favorite color?).

Your interactions will be relatively basic, and you may need other people to speak slowly with you in order to understand.

This level is common among those who have only been studying English for a short time (less than 6 months) or those who have not studied English for many years and do not practice regularly.

A2 – Beginner (Basic)

Average Time to Reach A2	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
6-12 months	The same topics as Level A1 plus expanded social interactions like varied greetings, hobbies, future arrangements, etc.	80 WPM or less	Basic knowledge with frequent errors	Situation-specific

At the A2 level, you can speak in full sentences and phrases on simple topics. Your vocabulary covers a broader array of subjects than it did at the A1 level, but your interactions are still limited to direct exchanges of information.

You can likely have a full conversation about yourself and various parts of your life. While your listening comprehension has improved, you might still need others to speak slowly or repeat themselves from time to time.

This level is common among adults in their first year of study or those who have not studied English for many years.

B1 – Intermediate (Independent)

Average Time to Reach B1	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
1-2 years	The same topics as Level A2 plus maintained speech in a wider range of contexts, including personal opinions and other informal discussions	100 WPM or less	Frequent errors with new or complex words	Adapted to a broad range of circumstances

Once you reach B1 level English, your English abilities are at the “intermediate” level. This means that you can speak and understand English for matters related to your daily routine. You can also be much more descriptive about your life and experiences. Finally, you can talk (using relatively simple terms) about more abstract or subjective topics, like aspirations, dreams, or opinions.

This level is common among adults who have been continuously studying English for more than one year or those who have the opportunity to practice English on a semi-regular basis.

B2 – Intermediate (Independent)

Average Time to Reach B2	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
2-4 years	The same topics as Level B1 plus the ability to express more complex viewpoints, arguments, and hypothetical situations	120 WPM or less	Occasional errors with new or complex words	Extensive knowledge of conversational English plus some basic technical vocabulary related to work or personal hobbies

The B2 level is often referred to as the “upper intermediate level.” As a B2 English speaker, you can take part in conversations on a variety of concrete and abstract topics. You may not know a lot of technical vocabulary, but you can still convey complex thoughts, explanations, experiences, or concepts with moderate accuracy.

This English proficiency level is common among adults who have been studying English for several years and practice regularly.

C1 – Advanced (Proficient)

Average Time to Reach C1	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
4-6 years	The same topics as Level B2 plus the ability to speak on completely new topics spontaneously	140 WPM or less	Infrequent errors with new or complex words	Extensive knowledge of conversational English and technical vocabulary

Once you have reached the C2 level, you are considered an advanced student of the English language.

You now have a firmer grasp of more complex grammar structures, implicit meaning in both text and speech, as well as the ability to speak English fluently in almost any environment. Though you will naturally make some errors from time to time, they are likely small and infrequent.

In order to reach the C1 level, you will likely need to study English formally for several years and practice speaking or reading English on a regular basis. This level of English proficiency is common among those who have lived in an English-speaking country for an extended period of time.

C2 – Advanced (Proficient)

Average Time to Reach C2	Topics	Rate of Speech (Words Per Minute)	Pronunciation and Grammar	Vocabulary
6-8 years	All or nearly all of the same topics as a native English speaker	160 WPM or less	Very infrequent errors	Extensive knowledge of conversational English and technical vocabulary

IETLS, TOEFL, and CEFR

That being said, these tests are designed to give you a general idea of where you stand on the CEFR English scale. Once you know your English level, you will be in a better position to develop a study plan that is right for you!

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