English Language Levels
Are you an A2 or a C1, can you take the FCE test or are you ready for the CAE? Find a straight forward answer!
Language Levels – Common European Framework
According to this Framework, language levels are categorised in acronyms such as A1 (Elementary), C2 (Expert) , B2 (Upper-Intermediate), and so on.
You can choose to certify your level via supporting international exams, some of the most popular being IELTS, TOEFL, FCE, CAE, CPE and TOEIC. For example, if you would like to certify your language skills at a ‘B2’ (Upper-Intermediate) level, you may take the FCE exam (which falls under the Cambridge ESOL examinations). Paid elective exams are available on specific dates, so please ask us for more information! The preparation courses are also available at most schools.
Expert
You are highly fluent in conversation and almost never have problems understanding implied meaning in a discussion. Very little improvement is required, and your focus is mainly on improvement of pronunciation and widening your vocabulary.
- Comprehension 95%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 95%
- Reading 95%
- Writing 95%
Common European Framework
C2
IELTS Score
7,5+
Cambridge Exam
CPE
Advanced
Your spoken English is fluent, and very few errors are noted. You have a wide vocabulary and are comfortable with phrases, colloquialisms, idiomatic expressions and so on. Most grammar rules have been well-established.
- Comprehension 80%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 80%
- Reading 80%
- Writing 80%
Common European Framework
C1
IELTS Score
7,0-7,5
Cambridge Exam
CAE
Upper-Intermediate
You can converse relatively fluently and rather accurately. You are able to actively participate in various discussions and have good vocabulary. You have the ability assimilate the main aspects of grammar into your everyday conversations.
- Comprehension 70%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 70%
- Reading 70%
- Writing 70%
Common European Framework
B2
IELTS Score
5,5-6,5
Cambridge Exam
FCE
Intermediate
You can understand and speak English with certain confidence. You have a sufficient grasp on vocabulary, have a good grip on pronunciation and are able to identify when a mistaken has been made within a sentence. You are able to use a number of tenses, and structure phrases appropriately. You have begun to learn and make use of the phrasal and modal verbs.
- Comprehension 60%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 60%
- Reading 60%
- Writing 60%
Common European Framework
B1
IELTS Score
4,0-5,0
Cambridge Exam
PET
Pre-Intermediate
You have a good knowledge of the basic structure that allows you to express yourself and understand much of what you hear. You are able to discuss certain topics and participate in conversation. You can sustain a basic dialogue in English, using verb forms based on the past, present and future, making use of several adjectives, nouns, adverbs, comparatives, articles, possessives and prepositions.
- Comprehension 45%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 45%
- Reading 45%
- Writing 45%
Common European Framework
A2
IELTS Score
3,0-3,5
Cambridge Exam
KET
Elementary
You are still learning ways of expressing yourself, and have not yet got a large enough vocabulary to maintain fluency in conversation or speech. You can grasp the generic meaning of simple sentences, but are not yet able to utilise the language.
- Comprehension 20%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 20%
- Reading 20%
- Writing 20%
Common European Framework
A1
IELTS Score
2,0-2,5
Cambridge Exam
None
Beginner
You have never studied the language before, and are completely new to it. You may be able to distinguish common words and phrases, such as ‘Hello’, ‘shop’, ‘money’ etc., but are not yet able to construct phrases and sentences effectively. Learning here commences with the basics of the language, which will give you the foundation for developing your skills to a fluent level of English.
- Comprehension 5%
- Oral Expression (Speaking) 5%
- Reading 5%
- Writing 5%
Common European Framework
None
IELTS Score
None
Cambridge Exam