What are the CEFR levels A1 to C2?
The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) describes language ability on six levels: A1 and A2 (basic user), B1 and B2 (independent user), and C1 and C2 (proficient user). Published by the Council of Europe, it is used worldwide to describe learners' levels, design courses and align exams, including many English tests and coursebooks.
What this means in practice
TEFL teachers use CEFR levels to place learners, choose materials and set realistic goals. Job adverts and coursebooks often say 'B1 learners' or 'C1 level'.
The six levels in brief
- A1: understands and uses familiar everyday phrases
- A2: handles simple routine tasks and exchanges
- B1: deals with most travel situations and describes experiences
- B2: interacts with fluency on a wide range of topics
- C1: uses language flexibly for social, academic and professional purposes
- C2: understands virtually everything with ease and precision
Why teachers use the CEFR
It gives a shared language for levels, helps you choose suitable tasks and texts, and lets you describe progress to learners and parents in a clear way.
CEFR and exams
Many international English exams report results in relation to CEFR levels. For example, IELTS publishes how its band scores relate to the CEFR.
Using CEFR 'can-do' statements in class
Turn descriptors into learner-friendly goals, such as 'I can introduce myself and ask simple questions' (A1) or 'I can give my opinion and explain why' (B1). Share them at the start of a unit and ask learners to tick them off at the end. This makes progress visible and helps learners take ownership of their learning.
Practical next steps
- Assess a new learner with a short speaking task and a placement test.
- Match their ability to the CEFR descriptors.
- Choose materials at or slightly above that level.
- Set goals using 'can-do' statements.
- Review progress against the descriptors each term.
What to keep in mind
CEFR descriptors are broad. Use them with your own judgement and evidence from learners' work.
Common follow-up questions
What CEFR level is fluent English?
B2 is often described as independent and fairly fluent; C1 and C2 are proficient levels.
Who created the CEFR?
The Council of Europe published the CEFR in 2001 and added a Companion Volume in 2020.
What CEFR level do I need to teach English?
Most employers expect teachers to be at C1 or above; C2 is ideal for teaching advanced and exam classes.
Related course
Online TEFL / TESOL Course
The 120-hour TEFL/TESOL Certificate most employers ask for, stackable to a 200-hour Diploma, PG Diplomas with one or two specialisations, and a 540-hour High-End course.
₹12,000 + GST · USD 199 international
View course