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This is a European standard for evaluating the different levels of language proficiency. The framework recognizes 6 different levels in the 4 skill areas: speaking, reading, writing and listening.
A1 Breakthrough | A2 Waystage | B1 Threshold | B2 Vantage | C1 Proficiency | C2 Mastery |
Beginner | ![]() |
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Advanced |
Below is a simplified overview illustrating how the levels relate to speaking skills.
Level |
General Description of Skills |
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Very basic concrete communication.
Survival vocabulary & very limited knowledge of grammar. Capable of very short 1 or 2 word answers about personal & familiar topics. |
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Simple & direct exchange of information possible about familiar & routine tasks. Can ask for & provide everyday goods & services. Can deal with simple transactions in shops, post offices & banks. |
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Understands the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. Can enter unprepared into conversation about familiar topics & connect ideas in a simple way. Can provide information, take messages, give simple instructions & deal with less routine problems, e.g. complaints. Can describe events, experiences, hopes & ambitions, give reasons, explanations of plans & opinions. |
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Understands the main points of both concrete & abstract input. Can take active part in discussions on familiar topics, support ideas, discuss advantages & disadvantages, speculate about causes & hypothetical situations. Can interact spontaneously & fluently enough with a native speaker to avoid strain for either party. |
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Capable of fluent, spontaneous almost effortless communication. Can understand extended speech & present clear detailed descriptions of complex subjects. Can use the language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. |
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Almost native speaker level. Can interact spontaneously & with ease. Consistent grammatical accuracy even when otherwise engaged or distracted. Extensive knowledge of idioms & colloquial expressions. Able to use different degrees of formality & differentiate finer shades of meaning. |