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What is A1, A2, B1...?

(Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

The Council of Europe, in cooperation with various language institutions, developed the "common European Framework of Reference for languages" (CEFRL or CEF). The main goal was to objectively describe the speakers of foreign languages in Europe and to maintain high standards in teaching.

The framework offers six levels of competence that can be used as markers in the language learning process. These are beginner Levels A1 and A2, intermediate levels B1 and B2 and advanced levels C1 and C2.

A1 - can understand simple and use familiar phrases in everyday life. He can introduce himself, introduce others, request and provide information about himself and others, where he lives, where he works, what he does. He can talk in a simple way if the interlocutor speaks slowly and clearly.

A2 - can understand sentences and frequent phrases from the immediate environment. Can communicate in routine tasks that require a simple and direct exchange of information about familiar things. Can express information about himself, immediate environment and basic needs in simple sentences.

B1 - Can understand the key meanings of a text or speech in a clear form, on topics he knows and that relate to various aspects of life and work. It can handle most situations when traveling through regions where the target language is spoken. He can compose a simple text on topics he is familiar with or of special importance. He can describe his hopes, dreams and ambitions and give reasons for his opinions and plans.

B2 - Can understand complex text dealing with both concrete and abstract topics. He can speak fluently enough to maintain smooth communication with native speakers. Can compose a clear, detailed text on a variety of topics and explain his/her opinion on something by highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of different opinions.

C1 - Can understand different types of demanding and longer texts. Can express himself spontaneously and fluently without too much obvious searching for expression. Can use the language flexibly and effectively in a variety of social, professional and academic contexts. Can compose clear, well-organized and detailed text on complex topics.

C2 - Can understand practically everything he hears or reads with ease. Can summarize information from different oral or written sources, reconstruct arguments and offer explanations. Can express himself spontaneously, very fluently and accurately, and distinguish fine nuances of meaning even in very complex situations.