What are language levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2?

03-08-2024

Understanding Language Levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2

Language learning is a structured process, often guided by standardized levels that help learners, educators, and employers gauge language proficiency. The most widely recognized framework is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which categorizes language proficiency into six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Understanding these levels can help you set realistic goals and track progress in your language learning journey.

A1: Beginner

The A1 level, you are just starting out with a new language. You can understand and use basic phrases and expressions related to immediate needs. For example, you can introduce yourself, ask simple questions, and engage in basic conversations, such as ordering food or asking for directions. Your vocabulary is limited, and you rely heavily on memorized phrases.

A2: Elementary

At the A2 level, your language skills have progressed slightly. You can handle simple tasks and routine communications that require direct exchange of information. You’re able to describe aspects of your background, family, and other familiar topics in simple terms. Conversations might still be challenging, but you can generally make yourself understood in everyday situations.

B1: Intermediate

B1 is the level where you start to gain more independence in the language. You can understand the main points of clear, standard communication on familiar topics such as work, school, and leisure activities. You’re capable of dealing with most situations that arise while traveling in areas where the language is spoken. You can also produce simple, connected text on topics of personal interest and describe experiences, events, dreams, and ambitions.

B2: Upper Intermediate

Reaching the B2 level indicates a solid grasp of the language. You can understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your field of specialization. You’re capable of interacting with native speakers with a degree of fluency and spontaneity, making regular interaction quite comfortable. At this stage, you can also produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue.

C1: Advanced

C1 represents a high level of proficiency. You can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. You express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Your use of language is flexible and effective for social, academic, and professional purposes. You can produce well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns and cohesive devices.

C2: Proficient

In the C2 level, you’ve reached near-native proficiency. 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 express yourself spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, even in complex situations. Essentially, you can handle any language task that a native speaker can.

Understanding these CEFR levels helps learners set realistic goals and track their progress in mastering a language. Whether you’re just starting out at A1 or refining your skills at C2, each step represents significant growth in your language proficiency.