"I'm practically fluent in English!"
Have you ever said that and then questioned the statement yourself? What does "practically fluent" actually mean? Does that mean that you have level C2 and have already reached the top of the language learning mountain? Or are you in theEnglish exam preparationfor an ESOL test and don't know which language level to aim for?
In fact, 'fluent English' starts a few levels below C2! We know that thanks to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CEFR is an international guide to measuring language proficiency, using a scale from A1 (beginner) to C2 (nearly native).
There are many free online tests you can use to check your CEFR level. You can alsoofficial language testslike the IELTS, which provide certified proof of your English proficiency for employers, colleges and universities.
The guide below will help you compare your skills to each language level and estimate how long it will take you to advance to a higher level. You will also receive useful tips on how to achieve your next goalLearn english onlineto reach. Here we go!
English proficiency levels: a brief overview
Would you like to improve your language level? Find out about them hereBest Online English Courses
1. Beginner: CEFR level A1
“I am Groot”
– Groot, Guardian of the Galaxy, Englischniveau A1(Video) What is YOUR English level? A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2
What you should know about English at A1 level
Also known as a 'complete beginner', at A1 level you have very limited knowledge of the English language. However, you will be able to navigate everyday situations using common expressions and basic vocabulary as long as the circumstances are familiar. This means you can find your way around London, Vancouver or Los Angeles, but you'll likely rely on Google Translate a lot! A1 learners speak slowly and with pauses while their brain searches for the right word, so it may take a little patience from native speakers to have a proper conversation.
The vocabulary at this level includesabout 700 words. That might sound like a lot, but it's a surprisingly limited amount to express yourself in different situations. To pass the Cambridge exam for A1 areabout 100 hourswith the English language required.
What you can do with A1 level
English learners at A1 level can:
- Introduce yourself in a simple way, using simple greetings and conversation starters (e.g. about the weather).
- Understand very basic geographic descriptions and directions given by locals.
- Find their way around cities by reading simple signs, posters and notices.
- Write very simple descriptions of their hobbies and interests.
Tips for reaching level A1
The best way to reach A1 level is,start learning and keep at it!When it comes to learning something new, everyone has to start from scratch. One of the biggest challenges is staying focused and motivated. You will be embarrassed at firstAnd youare guaranteedMake mistakes. But you have to accept that if you want to improve your English skills. At this point, you should also check out well-known language learning apps likeDuolingo or Babbel(in English) which are intended for complete beginners and are not quite as helpful once you reach level A2. You can use the vocabulary from the apps to create lists in notebooks or flashcards.
2.Basic knowledge: CEFR level A2
“Try not. Do or do not. There is no try.”
– Yoda, Jedi Master, English level A2
What you should know about English at A2 level
At A2 or 'Elementary' level you can engage in everyday small talk and express your opinions, but still in a very simple way and only on familiar topics. At this stage you start to really understand the past and future tenses and start thinking about your past (“Before I came here, I lived in Italy”) and ambitions (“In the next 5 years, I am going to start my own company”). Despite this, you typically only have short conversations and rely on a native speaker to conduct the conversation. However, it is much easier for native speakers to speak to you than to an A1 user!
When you reach level A2, you should have an active vocabulary of approx.1500 wordsand have a solid understanding of grammar. To pass the Cambridge exam for A2 areabout 180-200 hoursEnglish learning required.
What you can do at A2 level
English learners at A2 level can:
- Discuss familiar topics and network with English speakers and colleagues.
- Understand commonly used expressions spoken slowly on topics such as shopping, family and work.
- Write in simple terms about matters of immediate need and provide basic descriptions of family and friends.
- Read short, simple texts containing commonly used words and internationally known expressions.
Tips for reaching level A2
Although A2 is still technically a "beginner" level, it takes a while to get to this level. This is where you should start having (uncomplicated) conversations! A good tip: Practice with topics of conversation that can arise in everyday life –„Survival English“quasi (article in English). Also, an effective study method is to prepare a "cheat sheet" or journal with everything you might need for a basic conversation, such as: B. Background information about yourself, your hobbies, which restaurants you recommend, etc. At this stage, you should also seriously study verb conjugation and past and future tenses.
3.Intermediate: CEFR level B1
“‘Grey Worm’ gives me pride, it is a lucky name. The name this was born with was cursed”
– Gray Worm, Warrior of the Immaculate (Game of Thrones), English Level B1 (at the end of Season 8)
What you should know about English at B1 level
The step between A2 and B1 is big, as this level means you've reached a certain level of confidence in English. You can go to clothing stores and restaurants and have no trouble making requests to the staff. However, if you're talking about a topic you're not familiar with, you'll still have trouble. At this level, learners know more than the basics of the language but are not yet able to work or study in English alone. You can deal with problems in everyday life, e.g. B. with conversations you didn't prepare for or with problems that arise while traveling.
By the time you reach B1, you should have a vocabulary of around2500 wordsavailable, about half of which you can call up quickly. To pass the B1 Cambridge exam,about 350-400 hourswith the language required.
What you can do with B1 level
English learners at B1 level can:
- Describe experiences and wishes and support your opinion with evidence.
- Understand TV series in English with English subtitles.
- Read simple books in English and understand the main ideas of newspaper articles.
- Write simple texts on familiar topics and topics of personal interest.
Tips for reaching B1 level
To get to an intermediate level in learning English, the number one tip is to take learning seriously and plan a regular, committed study routine. 10 minutes a day is good, but 30 minutes is way better! This way you will see faster and more satisfying results. To cross the beginner-to-intermediate threshold, you should also look at your recurring mistakes and try to eliminate them one by one. AOnline English Teachercan help you identify common mistakes and create a plan to eliminate them. To expand your vocabulary, you should also start adding more phrases to your vocabulary. Make conversations easier by learning "blocks" of English, such as: B. Whole sentences, collocations or phrasal verbs instead of single words.
4.Upper-intermediate: CEFR level B2
“Offend Dobby? Dobby has heard of your greatness, sir… but never has he been asked to sit down by a wizard, like an equal.”
– Dobby, Hauself,Englischniveau B2(Video) What Does it mean By A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 | What are CEFR Levels in IELTS
What you should know about English at B2 level
Welcome to the first level, which we can call "Fluent English"! With English at B2 level you will have confidence and control in speaking, writing and reading. This is enough to work or study in English. You can now build more complex sentences to express ideas. You still make mistakes and you're certainly not the most experienced or nuanced speaker. However, you now have the necessary language skills to live in an English speaking country and work in an English speaking office.
If you want to reach level B2, your vocabulary should be about4000 wordsinclude. To pass the B2 Cambridge exam,about 500-600 hoursEngagement with the language required.
What you can do with B2 level
English learners at B2 level can:
- Participate actively in discussions in familiar contexts and contribute relevant explanations and arguments.
- Understand standard language spoken at a normal pace, provided the topic is reasonably familiar.
- Understand main ideas in complex texts as well as contemporary literary prose, articles and reports.
- Write clear, detailed text on topics related to your interests or area of expertise.
Tips for reaching B2 level
To reach level B2, you should start taking more risks. This means talking about unfamiliar topics, writing articles in English, and forcing you to explain complicated concepts. As you take these risks, your vocabulary will grow and you'll begin to filter out your recurring mistakes. In this phase, you should pay attention to how native speakers construct sentences and learn a few little tricks toyourto improve pronunciationand to imitate the flow of language. At this level, it often feels like your progress is slowing down. The most important thing, however, is that you pay close attention to what you're doing wrong. If you need help getting to this level, your best bet is to find a native English teacher who can help you practice and correct your mistakes.
5.Advanced: CEFR level C1
“Confident people have a way of carrying themselves that makes others more attracted to them.”
– Sofia Vergara, actress, English level C1
What you should know about English at C1 level
C1 is an advanced language level. With English level C1 you canspeak English with easeand understand the language in its (almost!) full complexity. At this point you are able to have longer conversations, even on unfamiliar topics. You also understand longer texts. At this level you can use English in everyday life for business and academic purposes. If B2 is what many consider 'fluent', then C1 is 'fluent with more nuance and understanding'. At level C1 you can understand subtle jokes in the language and use nuanced native language expressions.
If you want to reach level C1, your vocabulary should be about8000 wordsinclude – twice as much as for B2! To pass the Cambridge exam for C1 areabout 700-800 hourswith the language required.
What you can do with C1 level
English learners at C1 level can:
- Express ideas fluently and make presentations in the language.
- Understand subtle jokes and implied meanings within a conversation.
- Understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts.
- Write in detail on a wide range of subjects, and also handle unfamiliar subjects with ease.
Tips for reaching level C1
A great way to make the leap to C1 is to learn new information using the English language as a tool. For example, you canOnline course in Englishand educate yourself for your professional or personal goals, while improving your English skills at the same time. In this way, you not only learn a new skill, but also a lot of vocabulary on a topic that is relevant to you. At the same time you adopt the phrases used there in your active vocabulary. To actively learn, jot down 5 of the phrases you hear or read in class in a notebook or flashcard app. Then practice using each of these phrases or phrases in 5 different ways.
6.Nearly native language skills: CEFR level C2
“‘Supposedly, or so I have heard, some expect my speech to pave the way for a fundamental reform of the European architecture which will satisfy all kinds of alleged or actual British wishes. I am afraid they are in for a disappointment.’”
- Angela Merkel,German Chancellor, English level C2
What you should know about English at C2 level
The C2 level is the highest level there is and therefore deserves the title “Mastery”. This implies that the language user is at a similar level to a native speaker (but not quite 'native'), with full confidence and control over the language. C2 level English means being able to write or speak on any type of subject, with nuanced expression and coherent presentation. It also means being able to read and understand language without barriers. C2 means you have very few or no limitations in managing your daily life in English and you are extremely comfortable in an academic or professional environment.
If you want to reach level C2, your vocabulary should be about16,000 wordsinclude. To pass the C2 Cambridge exam,about 1000-1200 hoursEngagement with the language required.
What you can do with C2 level
English learners at C2 level can:
- Express yourself spontaneously and fluently and deal with confrontational questions with confidence.
- Write coherently and concisely, with the ability to summarize information to construct comprehensive arguments.
- Understand anything they hear in the language with ease.
- Read complex, technical texts at high speed.
Tips for reaching level C2
The key to speaking English at C2 level is to integrate the language into your life as much as possible. Daily use and speaking to native speakers will speed up the process and get you to C2 faster. Go outside your comfort zone and into situations where you need to use the language spontaneously. Over time, you no longer need to think about conversations ahead of time. One way to get to this level is to move to an English-speaking country where you can't use your native language. So you have to adapt quickly. However, if you're looking for a slightly less radical approach, it's also worth checking in with one regularlynative speaker teacherto practice.
Reach your English learning goals
The CEFR language levels are a great tool to measure your current language skills. Note, however, that many of the numbers mentioned in this article—hours and vocabulary size—are based on averages. Depending on how much you are exposed to the language and how much time you devote to learning, you will see faster or slower progress.
Whatever your circumstances, you will need time, a precise plan, and effective study resources to improve your English skills. There are no shortcuts. If you need help, aPreply teacherhelp create a personal plan and give you guidance and practice to help you progress faster. Before your first lesson, you can even take a 30-minute test to check your current level of English. This will help your teacher personalize the lessons and help you achieve your goals.
Although it looks difficult, the journey of theEnglish learningreally exciting. It will broaden your horizons in many ways... You will train your memory, acquire a professional skill for life and learn about the richness of different cultures. Ready to get started?
Frequently asked questions about English language levels
What are the 3 levels of language learning?
The three levels of language learning are commonly referred to as beginner, intermediate and advanced. One of the most widely used English language standards in the world is the CEFR standard, which divides language proficiency into 3 broader levels (A, B, and C) and 6 more specific levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2).
| Levelstep | GERS | Description |
| Beginner | A1 | You can use simple phrases for your basic needs. At level A1 you can hold simple conversations if the person you are talking to speaks slowly and clearly. |
| Basic knowledge | A2 | You can use English for everyday tasks and activities. You will also understand common expressions related to topics such as information about you and your employment. |
| intermediate level | B1 | You can hold simple conversations on familiar topics. At level B1 you can describe experiences, events and different situations such as travel. |
| Upper Intermediate | B2 | You can communicate confidently on many subjects. At level B2 you can converse with native speakers without difficulty and with a certain degree of spontaneity. You can also understand the main ideas of texts within your field. |
| Advanced | C1 | You can express yourself fluently in almost any situation without having to search for words. You are able to complete complex tasks related to work and study. You can also write clear, detailed texts on challenging topics. |
| Almost native speakers | C2 | You master the language completely. You can read, speak, and write about any type of topic, emotion, or opinion. You can differentiate finer nuances of meaning in the language, even in complex situations. |
What level is Fluent English?
Fluency usually begins at B2 level, with full fluency being achieved at C2 level.
How can I assess my English level?
The easiest way to assess your level of English is to take a language test, covering basic general areas like reading, vocabulary and grammar. Take an online test to better understand what level of English you are currently most likely to be at.
FAQs
English language levels: A1-C2 Meaning of each level? ›
It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This makes it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing, such as teachers or learners, to see the level of different qualifications.
What does English level A1 to C2 mean? ›It describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This makes it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing, such as teachers or learners, to see the level of different qualifications.
What does language level A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 mean? ›Language proficiency levels A1-C2 refer to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). They indicate Beginner (A1-A2), Intermediate (B1-B2), and Advanced (C1-C2) levels of foreign language competence.
What does C2 level English mean? ›Level C2 corresponds to proficient users of the language, i.e. those able to perform complex tasks related to work and study.
What does A1 B1 C1 language levels mean? ›A1 (Beginner) A2 (Elementary) B1 (Pre-Intermediate) B2 (Intermediate) C1 (Upper-Intermediate)
What is a C1 level in English? ›If a person is at C1, this is advanced level. He/she can do the following: Understand a wide range of more demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning in them. Express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for the right expression.
Is C2 a good level of English? ›It is our highest-level qualification – proof that you are a highly competent speaker of English. A C2 Proficiency qualification shows the world that you have mastered English to an exceptional level. It proves you can communicate with the fluency and sophistication of a highly competent English speaker.
What does C1 mean in language? ›Level C1 corresponds to proficient users of the language, i.e. those able to perform complex tasks related to work and study.
Is B2 fluent? ›Level B2: Basic Fluency
Reaching B2 is generally considered by most people as having basic fluency. You'll have a working vocabulary of around 4000 words.
English level B2 is the fourth level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a definition of different language levels written by the Council of Europe. In everyday speech, this level might be called “confident”, as in “I am a confident English speaker”.
Does C2 mean fluent? ›
English test C2 (Proficiency)
Can express themself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
Level A1 corresponds to basic users of the language, i.e. those able to communciate in everyday situations with commonly-used expressions and elementary vocabulary.
Is C1 the highest level of English? ›English level C1 is the fifth level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a definition of different language levels written by the Council of Europe.
Does B1 mean fluent? ›Level B1 corresponds to independent users of the language, i.e. those who have the necessary fluency to communicate without effort with native speakers.
What are language levels A1 B2 C2? ›| A Beginners level | A1 A2 |
|---|---|
| B Intermediate level | B1 B2 |
| C Advanced level | C1 C2 |
Level A2 corresponds to basic users of the language, i.e. those able to communciate in everyday situations with commonly-used expressions and elementary vocabulary.
Does C1 mean fluent? ›Level C1 corresponds to users who can express themselves fluently and spontaneously. They can use language flexibly and effectively for all purposes.
What is C3 level English? ›Fluency - Level C3
The C3-Fluency course attempts to bring the student to complete functional fluency. Particular attention is given to acquiring a deeper understanding of the connotation of words and the rhythm of the language. Students are expected to produce daily passages in clearly and precisely.
A C1 certificate in English, which is close to bilingual level, allows candidates not only to greatly improve their job potential, but also to access bibliography, technical material and professional connections only available to the most advanced graduates.
How do I know my English level? ›Online English testing, simplified
Linguaskill is a quick and convenient online test to help higher education institutions and employers check the English levels of individuals and groups of candidates. It combines the latest technology with the reliability and quality you expect from Cambridge.
Is C2 the same as native? ›
In everyday speech, this level might be called “bilingual”, as in “I am bilingual in English and French.” A well-educated native English speaker is technically at a C2 level. Relatively few English learners reach this level because their professional or academic goals do not require it.
Can a non native be C2? ›Can a non native speaker reach C2? No, not all native speakers speak their languages at C2 level. I am bilingual by myself, and I can understand everything, of course, written or spoken in my native languages.
Is C1 fluent or advanced? ›C1 English (Advanced)
Level C1 corresponds to users who can express themselves fluently and spontaneously. They can use language flexibly and effectively for all purposes.
A C1 level speaker can also be considered as someone who is a fluent speaker of the language. They will have no problem speaking, reading, writing and understanding the language and don't really need to take pauses to think while they are speaking.
Is A2 fluent? ›At A2 proficiency level, English learners can: Talk with English speakers, and network with English-speaking colleagues on familiar topics. Understand slow, frequently used expressions in areas such as shopping, family, and employment.
How many words does a C2 speaker know? ›Language Levels: CEFR
In the minds of many, this is a good measure of fluency. Someone holding C2 level would have an active vocabulary of 10,000 and a passive vocabulary of around 20,000. That's in line with what information shows is the average for a native speaker to know.
They are also more aware of what they need to work on next to progress. However, in general, b1 is considered to be more difficult than b2. The person has reached a point in his or her career where he or she can engage in a wide range of activities both at work and away from it.
Is B2 considered bilingual? ›Thus at B2, you're fluent or getting there. At C1 you'll be even more fluent, then 5 to 10 years later, at C2 you're bilingual. If this is for CV/résumé purposes then put whatever you feel comfortable with advanced/intermediate/fluent followed by (B2).
Is A2 level English good? ›An A2 level of English is sufficient for tourism in an English-speaking country and socializing with English speakers, although to develop deeper friendships an A2 level is not adequate.
Is B2 fluent or intermediate? ›| Anglo-Link rank | CEFR* |
|---|---|
| Intermediate | B1 |
| Advanced | B2 |
| Fluent | C1 |
| Proficient | C2 |
How to go from B2 to C1 English? ›
If you are on a comfortable B2 level, and want to move it to C1, I suggest that you start using the language to learn new things with online courses. For example, you can use the website www.udemy.com. It has a lot of free courses about everything, any topic that can possibly interest you will probably be there.
How long does it take to reach C2 level in English? ›| Level of English (CEFR) | Number of hours of instruction |
|---|---|
| A2 to B1 | 300 hours |
| B1 to B2 | 200 hours |
| B2 to C1 | 200 hours |
| C1 to C2 | 200 hours |
C2 Proficiency
The last and the most demanding level of language proficiency is C2. Speakers can easily understand everything- from concrete to abstract topics, easily can lead any kind of conversation, and can express themselves with ease and spontaneously even in the most complex situations.
A person who scores at C2 level on a CEFR exam may have a near-native speaker level of proficiency in the language, but their proficiency in the language may still be different from a native speaker in various areas such as colloquial expressions, accents, and some cultural knowledge.
What is the English level A1 A2? ›| Wall Street English | CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH SCALE |
|---|---|
| Levels 1-2 (Pre-A1) | 80-89 |
| Levels 3-5 (A1) | 100-119 |
| Levels 6-9 (A2) | 120-139 |
| Levels 10-13 (B1) | 140-159 |
An A1 level of English would be sufficient for very simple interactions, for example as a tourist in an English-speaking country. An A1 level would not be sufficient for other academic or professional purposes.
How hard is A1 English test? ›The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) has established six levels of language proficiency, classified according to their level of difficulty. The A1 level (Beginner) is the first level on this scale and is equivalent to the basic or beginner's level.
Is C1 better than C2 English? ›The main difference between the two tests is the level of English that they allow you to achieve. C1 Advanced is targeted at the C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), while C2 is targeted at the C2 CEFR level. C2 Proficiency is therefore the more difficult of the two exams.
Is B2 level English good? ›If a person is at B2, this is upper intermediate level. He/she can do the following: Understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialisation.
How many levels of fluency are there? ›The ACTFL scale consists of five main fluency levels known as Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior and Distinguished. These levels include sublevels of proficiency known as low, medium or high.
Is B1 better than B2? ›
Generally speaking, a B1 visa is for business-related projects, while a B2 visa is for tourism and pleasure-travel. The government can also issue a B1/B2 visa to business travelers who plan to travel within the US for tourist activities during their stay in the United States.
How to get C2 level English? ›You can get a C2 English certificate by taking the C2 Proficiency (CPE) or Linguaskill. You can also choose to take the IELTS, the TOEIC, the TOEFL, or the Aptis, among others.
What comes after C2 language level? ›Comprehend the literature: if you wish to take your English beyond the C2 level, you must go for English literature.
How hard is A2 English? ›A2 is a beginner level of English learning, so it's important to know what you can do at this level to improve and progress quickly and easily. At the A2 level, you should be able to engage in simple conversations on familiar topics, such as family, work, and daily activities.
What grade is A2 English? ›| Cambridge English Scale Score | Grade | CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|
| 140–150 | A | B1 |
| 133–139 | B | A2 |
| 120–132 | C | A2 |
| 100–119 | Level A1 | A1 |
The reference levels taught to children from 8 to 12 are A1 and A2.
How long does it take to learn English from A1 to C2? ›An A1 level of English would be sufficient for very simple interactions, for example as a tourist in an English-speaking country. An A1 level would not be sufficient for other academic or professional purposes.
Is C1 English higher than C2? ›C1 Advanced Scale Scores
The examination also provides reliable assessment at the level above C1 (Level C2) and the level below (Level B2). Scores between 142 and 159 are also reported for C1 Advanced. You will not receive a certificate, but your Cambridge English Scale score will be shown on your Statement of Results.
A1 English learners speak slowly and with pauses while they search for the right word, so it can take a little patience from native speakers to have a real conversation. The vocabulary at this level is roughly 700 words. This may sound like a lot, but it's a surprisingly limited amount to work with.
Is it hard to get C2 English? ›
It is possible to reach the C2 level in English and there are many living proofs around you. You can do it too. It takes dedication and hard work, but you can do it if you want to.
How do I get my C2 English level? ›You can get a C2 English certificate by taking the C2 Proficiency (CPE) or Linguaskill. You can also choose to take the IELTS, the TOEIC, the TOEFL, or the Aptis, among others.
How can I check my English level? ›Online English testing, simplified
Linguaskill is a quick and convenient online test to help higher education institutions and employers check the English levels of individuals and groups of candidates. It combines the latest technology with the reliability and quality you expect from Cambridge.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) has six levels, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for users who are proficient in the language.
Is A1 English test difficult? ›The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) has established six levels of language proficiency, classified according to their level of difficulty. The A1 level (Beginner) is the first level on this scale and is equivalent to the basic or beginner's level.
What is level C in English? ›Level C1 corresponds to proficient users of the language, i.e. those able to perform complex tasks related to work and study.
What is an example of a C2 level in English? ›For example, a student at the C2 level in English will be able to do all the things that a student in level C1 can do, and in addition he will be able to: discuss issues related to science and technology, including robots and new inventions. talk about celebrities, celebrity activism and gossip about celebrities.
How can I improve my English a1 level? ›Use simple, everyday expressions. Hold a basic conversation with an English speaker, as long as they speak slowly and clearly. You're not expected to speak quickly. Give information about yourself: age, profession, where you live, the things you have, and the things you like.
Is C2 considered fluent? ›English test C2 (Proficiency)
Can express themself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
Level C1 corresponds to users who can express themselves fluently and spontaneously. They can use language flexibly and effectively for all purposes.