What are CEFR levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2?
- Ananya
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 8
If you’ve ever taken a course or looked at a language app, you’ve probably seen strange codes like A1, B2, or C1. What do they mean? And what’s this thing called CEFR? Let’s break it down in the easiest way possible!
Contents
What is CEFR? and why it exists?
CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
It’s a system that helps people describe how well someone can speak, understand, read, and write a language, whether it’s English, Spanish, French, or even Japanese!
But CEFR isn’t just some random rating system. It has a cool backstory...
🕰️ A Quick History of the CEFR Framework
Back in the 1970s, Europe was becoming more connected, people were traveling, working, and studying in different countries. But there was one big problem:
Everyone measured language skills differently.
Some schools gave grades. Some used local tests. Others used confusing labels like "intermediate plus-minus." There was no clear, shared system.
So, the Council of Europe decided to fix that. They wanted a common framework to describe language ability in a way everyone could understand, from schools and teachers to governments and employers.
After years of research and collaboration, they launched the official CEFR framework in 2001.
Since then, CEFR has become the global standard for language learning used in over 40 countries, including language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, and more.
That’s what makes it so useful for:
📚 Language learners and trainers
🎓 Schools and universities
💼 Employers and recruiters
🛂 Visa and immigration offices
The 6 CEFR Levels explained easily
CEFR is like a ladder with six steps. Each level shows what you can actually do with the language
A1 and A2 = Beginner
B1 and B2 = Intermediate
C1 and C2 = Advanced
Now let’s walk through each level and what you can actually do at each step.
A1 (Beginner) – "I know a little"
You can:
Say simple things like your name, age, and where you're from.
Ask and answer basic questions.
Understand slow, clear speech.
Example: “Hi, my name is Sara. I am from Spain. I like pizza.”
Perfect if you're just starting out!
A2 (Elementary) – "I can survive"
You can:
Handle short, everyday conversations (shopping, directions, etc.).
Understand simple sentences and questions.
Talk about your routine and surroundings.
Example: “I go to work by bus. It takes 20 minutes. I like my job.”
You're starting to connect the dots!
B1 (Intermediate) – "I can manage"
You can:
Talk about things like work, travel, hobbies, or school.
Understand the main idea of TV shows or news if the language is clear.
Write basic emails and messages.
Example: “Last weekend, I visited my friend in Paris. We had dinner at a nice restaurant.”
You can now live, work, or study in a target language speaking speaking environment with some help.
B2 (Upper Intermediate) – "I can express myself"
You can:
Talk fluently on a wide range of topics.
Understand complex texts and media.
Argue your opinion or give advice.
Example: “I think working from home increases productivity, but it also reduces social interaction.”
You’re independent and confident. Employers love this level!
C1 (Advanced) – "I can play with language"
You can:
Speak clearly, naturally, and almost fluently.
Understand idioms, jokes, and hidden meanings.
Write essays, reports, or presentations with ease.
Example: “Despite the challenges, remote work fosters flexibility and autonomy, which boosts long-term engagement.”
You sound like a native or close to it!
C2 (Mastery) – "I’m basically a native speaker"
You can:
Understand everything you hear or read.
Communicate effortlessly in any situation even academic or professional.
Catch humor, sarcasm, and cultural references.
Example: “Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, nuanced, powerful, and emotionally resonant.”
This level is rare, even some native speakers struggle with this kind of precision!
CEFR Levels required by countries & purpose
Country | Study (University) | Work / Employment | Permanent Residency / Citizenship |
Germany | B2 or C1 (varies by program) | B1–B2 (for qualified jobs) | B1 (required for citizenship) |
France | B2 (Bachelor’s level) | B1–B2 (varies by job) | B1 (for citizenship) |
Italy | B2 (most degrees) | B1–B2 (depending on job sector) | B1 (for long-term residence/citizenship) |
Spain | B2 (most degrees) | B1–B2 (especially public sector) | A2 (for citizenship) |
💡 Notes:
Some countries accept lower levels (A2/B1) for citizenship, but higher levels (B2/C1) are expected for education or professional jobs.
In Sweden and Netherlands, English-taught programs are common so English B2–C1 may be enough for studying, but integration still requires local language skills.
🎯 Quick Reference: Recommended CEFR Levels
Situation | Recommended CEFR Level |
Travel and Basic Communication | A1–A2 |
Everyday Living Abroad | B1 |
Studying at University (Bachelor/Master) | B2–C1 |
Working in a Professional Environment | B1–C1 (depends on field) |
Applying for Citizenship | A2–B2 (varies by country) |
📝 Pro Tip:
If you're moving or planning to study/work abroad, it's helpful to aim one level higher than the official requirement, it boosts your confidence and gives you an advantage in real-world situations!
Final Thoughts: Your Language Journey
The CEFR framework is more than just letters and numbers, it’s a map of your language journey.
No matter what language you're learning and no matter your starting point, each level shows progress.
So, ask yourself:
Where am I now? Where do I want to go next? 🚀
Remember: Every conversation, every word, every mistake, it all counts. Keep climbing!
🎯 Ready to take your next step?
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