According to the data from the European Language Policy Research Center, more than 90% language training institutions around the world use CEFR as a teaching standard. This article will analyze this internationally used language proficiency assessment system in depth.
- ✅ Quickly determine your language level
- ✅ International test score conversion table
- ✅ 3 free self-test methods
- 📚 Reading time: 8 minutes
Table of contents
1. CEFR: An international standard for language proficiency
CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is a language proficiency assessment standard officially released by the Council of Europe in 2001. The latest 2020 version covers 40 languages. Its core values are:
- 🌍 Unified evaluation standards: Eliminate differences in language certification among countries
- 📊 Quantitative ability indicators: language ability is divided into 6 clear levels
- 🎯 Competency-oriented assessment: emphasizing practical application rather than simple knowledge accumulation
2. Detailed explanation of the six capability levels (latest standards for 2024)
| grade | Capability Description | Vocabulary | Study time* | Application Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Able to conduct simple daily conversations Understanding basic notices |
500-1000 | 80-100h | Tourism basic exchange |
| A2 | Can describe personal background Handling simple transactions |
1000-2000 | 180-200h | Short-term living abroad |
| B1 | Able to cope with work scenarios Understand the main points of the news |
2000-3500 | 350-400h | Basic business communication |
| B2 | Ability to participate in professional discussions Writing formal documents |
3500-5000 | 500-600h | Introduction to Academic Research |
| C1 | Able to give impromptu speeches Understanding implicit semantics |
5000-8000 | 700-800h | Professional field work |
| C2 | Near native level Grasp the cultural connotation |
8000+ | 1000+h | Advanced Academic Research |
*Study time refers to the average cumulative study time from zero foundation to this level
III. International Test Score Comparison Table
| CEFR | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | Cambridge English |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | – | – | YLE |
| A2 | 3.0-3.5 | – | KET |
| B1 | 4.0-5.0 | 42-71 | PET |
| B2 | 5.5-6.5 | 72-94 | FCE |
| C1 | 7.0-8.0 | 95-114 | CAE |
| C2 | 8.5-9.0 | 115-120 | CPE |
4. Practical Application Scenarios
- Resume:Recommended format: English (CEFR B2)
- Study Abroad Application:European universities generally require B2 or above
- Course Options:CEFR levels marked in reference textbooks
- Language certification:More than 50 countries recognize CEFR certificates
5. Complete the self-assessment in 3 steps
Step 1: Online testing
Recommended tools:
– Cambridge English Test Online
– EF Standard English Test
Step 2: CEFR Competency Self-Assessment Table (2024 Practical Version)
Please assess yourself against the following “I can do” statements based on the European Handbook of Language Standards:
| grade | Listening skills | Speaking ability | Reading skills | Writing skills |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | ✅ Understand basic information such as numbers and prices ✅ Understand slow and simple questions |
✅ Introduce yourself ✅ Basic communication for ordering/shopping |
✅ Understand short notifications/labels ✅ Understand simple questionnaires |
✅ Fill in personal information ✅ Write a short postcard |
| A2 | ✅ Understand the key points of weather forecast ✅ Understand slow everyday conversations |
✅ Describe your family situation ✅ Book a hotel/ticket |
✅ Understand the simple instructions ✅ Understanding personal letters |
✅ Write a short diary ✅ Complete a simple form |
| B1 | ✅ Understand the main points of radio news ✅ Understand workplace conversations |
✅ Express personal opinions ✅ Handle customer inquiries |
✅ Browse professional websites ✅ Understand newspaper articles |
✅ Write work emails ✅ Write simple reports |
| B2 | ✅ Understand academic lectures ✅ Understand dialect accents |
✅ Participate in group debates ✅ Impromptu speaking |
✅ Analyze literary selections ✅ Understand legal documents |
✅ Write a paper outline ✅ Write a formal complaint letter |
| C1 | ✅ Understand fast conversations ✅ Understand puns/humor |
✅ Host work meetings ✅ Mediate conflicts |
✅ Speed reading of professional literature ✅ Understand academic papers |
✅ Writing research papers ✅ Write business proposals |
| C2 | ✅ Understand dialect slang ✅ Understand the rhythm of poetry |
✅ Impromptu academic speech ✅ Imitate different accents |
✅ Critical reading ✅ Understand obscure text |
✅ Create literary works ✅ Writing legal contracts |
- Directions:
- Check the items you have fully mastered
- Statistics of the number of levels achieved:
- Achieve ≥3 items → Reach this level
- Achieve ≥5 items → Exceed this level
- Example judgment:
If you achieve 4 items at B1 level and 2 items at B2 level → Current level: B1+
- Note:
- This table is for quick reference only. For accurate assessment, you need to take the formal exam.
- Re-evaluation every 3 months is recommended
- Focus on unmet competencies
Study Suggestions Comparison Table
| Current level | Recommended study materials | Daily study time |
|---|---|---|
| A1-A2 | English for Beginners Duolingo App |
30-45 minutes |
| B1-B2 | Headway Intermediate TED Talks |
60 minutes |
| C1-C2 | Advanced Grammar in Use Intensive reading of The Economist |
90 minutes+ |
Step 3: Professional Certification
Choose an official certification exam:
– IELTS/TOEFL (international standard)
– Cambridge English exam (recognized in Europe)
VI. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long is the CEFR certificate valid for?
There is no official validity period, but it is recommended to be re-evaluated every 2 years, especially when used for academic or professional certification.
Q2: Can I reach C2 level by self-study?
Possible but difficult, it is recommended to take professional training after C1. Data shows that only 3% self-learners can reach C2.
Q3: Are the CEFR standards the same for different languages?
The assessment framework is the same, but the specific language is different. For example, Chinese HSK Level 6 ≈ CEFR C1.
Expert advice
Linguist Dr. Emma Wilson suggests:
"Don't pursue the level too much. B2 level can meet the needs of most jobs. Focus on developing practical communication skills."
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