What are the Levels of English Language and What Does Each One Include?

Learning English is a process that requires time and systematic study. Those who learn foreign languages, whether for professional or personal reasons, will have heard of English levels, which are defined according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This guide explains what each level represents, which skills are needed, and how you can assess your own progress.

What are English language levels?

English levels are mainly defined by the CEFR, which ranges from A1 to C2. Each level corresponds to specific skills in understanding and producing spoken and written language.
These skills include:

• Understanding spoken and written language.
• Producing spoken and written language.
• Vocabulary and grammar.
• Ability to communicate and adapt to different contexts.

Detailed description of English levels

Level	Description	Skills
A1 (Beginner)	Beginner level	The learner can understand and use very simple expressions to satisfy basic needs and recognise common everyday words and phrases such as greetings.
A2 (Elementary)	Elementary level	Can understand and use phrases related to simple everyday activities and needs, introduce themselves and answer basic questions.
B1 (Intermediate)	Intermediate level	Can talk about work, studies and daily activities and understand texts written in simple English.
B2 (Upper‑Intermediate)	Upper‑intermediate	Can communicate with relative ease and spontaneity in more complex situations, such as conversations on cultural topics.
C1 (Advanced)	Advanced level	Can handle complex subjects, express opinions and argue clearly, understand complex texts and produce extended written texts.
C2 (Proficient)	Proficient level	Has a level close to that of a native speaker, easily understands all forms of spoken and written English and can express themselves with complete ease.

Detailed assessment criteria by level

A1 – Beginner

Skill	Description
Listening	Recognises simple expressions and very common words.
Speaking	Can introduce themselves and exchange very basic personal information.
Reading	Understands very simple sentences with familiar vocabulary.
Writing	Can write very short messages and simple sentences.

A2 – Elementary

Skill	Description
Listening	Understands phrases related to simple everyday needs.
Speaking	Can take part in simple conversations about personal details and routines.
Reading	Understands short texts about everyday life.
Writing	Can write short notes and personal messages.

B1 – Intermediate

Skill	Description
Listening	Understands main points in conversations about work, school, etc.
Speaking	Can express opinions and talk about familiar topics.
Reading	Understands basic texts such as short articles and simple essays.
Writing	Can write simple texts describing experiences and events.

B2 – Upper‑Intermediate

Skill	Description
Listening	Understands content related to current affairs and more complex topics.
Speaking	Can communicate with relative fluency and express opinions.
Reading	Understands articles and reports containing viewpoints and arguments.
Writing	Can write detailed reports and present arguments.

C1 – Advanced

Skill	Description
Listening	Understands long speeches and more complex arguments.
Speaking	Can discuss a wide range of topics fluently and in a well‑organised way.
Reading	Understands academic texts and long, complex reports.
Writing	Can write clear, well‑structured texts using specialised vocabulary.

C2 – Proficient

Skill	Description
Listening	Understands all forms of spoken English with ease.
Speaking	Can speak spontaneously and effortlessly on any topic.
Reading	Understands and analyses highly specialised texts without difficulty.
Writing	Can produce complex, nuanced written texts on any subject.

Internationally recognised English exams

CEFR levels can be confirmed through exams such as Cambridge English (KET, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE), IELTS and TOEFL, widely used by universities and employers.

CEFR level	English certifications	Description
A1 – Beginner	–	No formal certification is usually required at this very basic level.
A2 – Elementary	Cambridge KET (Key English Test)	Confirms basic knowledge and understanding of simple everyday conversations.
B1 – Intermediate	Cambridge PET, IELTS 4.0–5.0	Corresponds to basic independent use of English in everyday situations.
B2 – Upper‑Intermediate	Cambridge FCE, IELTS 5.5–6.5, TOEFL 72–94	Confirms comfortable communication and good understanding of written and spoken English in more demanding contexts.
C1 – Advanced	Cambridge CAE, IELTS 7.0–8.0, TOEFL 95–120	Shows excellent ability to understand complex topics and use English in academic and professional environments.
C2 – Proficient	Cambridge CPE, IELTS 8.5–9.0	Represents near‑native command of English.

These certificates are internationally recognised and can be used for study, work and migration.

How to determine your level

You can find your level in several ways:

1. Online CEFR tests: Many platforms offer quick placement tests.
2. Official exams: IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge exams give an exact, certified level.
3. Self‑assessment: Using the descriptions above to see where you fit best.

Study tips by level

A1 – Beginner

1. Use visual tools (pictures, flashcards, videos, apps like Duolingo, Memrise).
2. Learn common words and phrases (greetings, polite expressions).
3. Practise listening with simple dialogues or songs with subtitles.

A2 – Elementary

1. Read simple texts (children’s books, short articles).
2. Do basic grammar exercises (present tenses, simple sentences).
3. Use speaking apps (HelloTalk, Tandem) to practise simple conversations.

B1 – Intermediate

1. Read newspapers and online articles aimed at learners.
2. Watch films with English subtitles.
3. Start writing short texts, emails or diary entries.

B2 – Upper‑Intermediate

1. Join discussions on social and cultural topics.
2. Read novels, magazines and more complex articles.
3. Listen to podcasts and note new vocabulary and expressions.

C1 – Advanced

1. Take part in academic or professional discussions.
2. Analyse and discuss books and films in depth.
3. Write essays and practise academic speaking tasks.

C2 – Proficient

1. Analyse complex academic and opinion texts critically.
2. Write and edit long, sophisticated texts (essays, articles, reviews).
3. Debate complex topics such as economics, philosophy or politics.

Learning English at higher levels is not just a means of communication, but a powerful tool for professional and personal development. With systematic study and targeted practice, you can improve your skills and reach the level you want, whether that means basic communication or very advanced proficiency.