Levels
CEFR levels A1 to C2 explained
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) describes how well someone uses a language, on six levels from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). Universities, employers and exams such as IELTS, TOEFL and the Cambridge English exams report results against it.
Every word, question and test on Gift of Language is levelled with the Gift of Language framework, which is aligned with the CEFR. Below is what a learner can do at each level, the vocabulary pathway for it, and how the levels compare with IELTS bands and TOEFL scores.
Basic user
CEFR A1: Breakthrough
Understands and uses familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases about self, family and immediate surroundings when the partner speaks slowly and clearly.
A1 vocabulary pathway (102 video lessons)Basic user
CEFR A2: Waystage
Understands frequent expressions on areas of immediate relevance; handles simple routine exchanges; describes background, surroundings and immediate needs in simple terms.
A2 vocabulary pathway (128 video lessons)Independent user
CEFR B1: Threshold
Understands main points of clear standard input on familiar matters; deals with most travel situations; produces simple connected text and briefly justifies opinions and plans.
B1 vocabulary pathway (204 video lessons)Independent user
CEFR B2: Vantage
Understands main ideas of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics; interacts with fluency and spontaneity; writes clear detailed text explaining a viewpoint with advantages and disadvantages.
B2 vocabulary pathway (648 video lessons)Proficient user
CEFR C1: Effective Operational Proficiency
Understands demanding longer texts and implicit meaning; expresses ideas fluently and spontaneously; uses language flexibly for social, academic and professional purposes; writes well-structured text on complex subjects.
C1 vocabulary pathway (317 video lessons)Proficient user
CEFR C2: Mastery
Understands virtually everything heard or read; summarises and reconstructs arguments coherently; expresses self spontaneously and precisely, distinguishing finer shades of meaning.
C2 vocabulary pathway (366 video lessons)IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge English in CEFR levels
These are the equivalents the exam owners publish. They are approximate: an exam result covers several skills, and a level here describes vocabulary. Check the official tables before you apply anywhere.
| CEFR level | IELTS band | TOEFL iBT score | Cambridge English exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2 | 3.0–3.5 | – | A2 Key |
| B1 | 4.0–5.0 | 42–71 | B1 Preliminary |
| B2 | 5.5–6.5 | 72–94 | B2 First |
| C1 | 7.0–8.0 | 95–113 | C1 Advanced |
| C2 | 8.5–9.0 | 114–120 | C2 Proficiency |
IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge English are trademarks of their owners. We are not affiliated with them.
Vocabulary for exams
Competitive exams in India and abroad, such as CAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, UPSC and CUET, write their reading passages at CEFR B2 to C2. Each exam pathway starts with the Universal Core, the words every exam uses, then adds its own. Find your level with a free adaptive test to see where to begin.
For teachers
Teachers, tutors and TESOL or TEFL trainees can use the CEFR descriptors on this page and on the grammar page to plan levelled lessons, and the ten-word video lessons and word pages as ready-made vocabulary material: each word has its meaning, examples, word partners and the mistake learners make most.
Questions about the CEFR
What is the CEFR?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) describes language ability on six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). It is used around the world to describe courses, exams and job requirements, and every word, question and test on Gift of Language is levelled against it.
What CEFR level do I need for IELTS 7?
An IELTS band of 7.0 to 8.0 corresponds to CEFR C1, as published by IELTS. Band 5.5 to 6.5 corresponds to B2. Vocabulary range and precision are a large part of the step from B2 to C1.
Which CEFR level do CAT, GRE and GMAT need?
These exams do not report a CEFR level, but their reading passages and verbal questions are written at C1 and above. The Universal Core words on Gift of Language are mostly C1, which is why every exam pathway starts with them.
How can I find my CEFR level?
Take the free adaptive vocabulary and grammar test at Find your level. Each answer chooses the next question, and the test stops when it is confident of your level, then gives a report and a study plan.
Can teachers use these lessons in class?
Yes. Teachers, tutors and TESOL or TEFL trainees can use the ten-word episodes, the word pages and the CEFR descriptors to plan levelled vocabulary lessons. Each word page gives the meaning, examples, word partners and the most common learner mistake.