CEFR levels explained
The CEFR describes language ability in six levels, from A1 to C2. Here is what each English level means, what listening is like at that level, and how to find yours.
What is the CEFR?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing how well someone uses a language. Schools, employers and exams such as Cambridge English and IELTS use it to talk about English levels in the same way.
There are three bands, each split in two: A (basic user), B (independent user) and C (proficient user). Most learners move through A1, A2, B1, B2 and C1. C2 is near-native mastery.
A1 — Beginner
You understand familiar everyday words and very basic phrases about yourself, your family and your surroundings, when people speak slowly and clearly.
A2 — Elementary
You understand phrases and common words about things that matter to you, such as shopping, work and where you live. You catch the main point of short, clear messages and announcements.
B1 — Intermediate
You understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar topics, such as work, school and free time. You can follow much of a radio or TV programme on a familiar topic when people speak fairly slowly.
B2 — Upper-intermediate
You understand longer speech and follow complex arguments on familiar topics. You understand most TV news and films in standard English. B2 is often the level asked for to study or work in English.
C1 — Advanced
You understand extended speech even when it is not clearly structured and ideas are only implied. You follow TV programmes and films without much effort, including fast, natural speech.
C2 — Proficiency
You understand virtually everything you hear, in any setting: fast native speech, strong regional accents, jokes, slang and what people mean without saying it. C2 is close to the level of an educated native speaker.
There are no C2 dictations on EnglishDictations, on purpose. Dictation trains you to catch every word, and at C2 you already do: writing down speech you understand in full adds little. To keep improving at this level, listen widely instead, to unscripted conversations, podcasts, different accents and specialist talks. If you are working towards C2, the C1 dictations are still good practice for fast, natural speech.
How to find your CEFR level
A level test is the quickest way to know where to start. Our free test checks your listening: you write down one short story that gets harder from A1 to C1, and your answers place you on the CEFR scale. It takes about 5 minutes.
Questions about CEFR levels
What does CEFR stand for?
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It was created by the Council of Europe and is used around the world to describe language levels.
Is B2 a good English level?
Yes. At B2 you can work, study and live in English with confidence on most everyday and professional topics. Many universities and employers ask for B2.
How long does it take to go up a CEFR level?
It depends on how often you practise and where you start. Moving up a level often takes several months of regular study, and the higher levels take longer than the first ones.
Why are there no C2 dictations?
Because dictation helps most while there are still words you miss. At C2 you understand nearly everything, so writing it down teaches little. Varied, unscripted listening helps more at that level; C1 dictations remain useful on the way there.
Can my listening and speaking be at different levels?
Yes. It is common to understand more than you can say, or to read better than you listen. That is why it helps to test and practise listening on its own.