The six levels in three groups
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) was published by the Council of Europe in 2001 and updated in 2018. It splits ability into three groups: Basic User (A1, A2), Independent User (B1, B2) and Proficient User (C1, C2). Each level is described by what you can do, not by what you get wrong.
What each level means in practice
- A1: you can understand and use familiar everyday expressions, introduce yourself and ask simple questions about personal details.
- A2: you can handle simple, routine tasks — shopping, directions, describing your family and job in simple terms.
- B1: you can deal with most situations while travelling, understand the main points of clear speech on familiar topics, and write simple connected text.
- B2: you can follow the main ideas of complex text, talk with native speakers fairly fluently and without strain, and give a clear, detailed view on a topic.
- C1: you can understand long, demanding texts, express yourself fluently without obviously searching for words, and use language flexibly for study and work.
- C2: you can understand virtually everything you hear or read and express yourself precisely, distinguishing finer shades of meaning.
Which Cambridge English exam matches each level
Cambridge English Qualifications are each aimed at one CEFR level:
- A2 — A2 Key (KET)
- B1 — B1 Preliminary (PET)
- B2 — B2 First (FCE)
- C1 — C1 Advanced (CAE)
- C2 — C2 Proficiency (CPE)
Choose the exam at the level you are confidently working at. Sitting one level too high is the most common reason candidates fail.
Find your level in 30 minutes
Take the free English Level Test (A1–C2): 48 questions that start easy and get harder, eight at each level. You get an indicative CEFR level and the Cambridge exam to aim for. It is a placement guide, not an official certificate.
Frequently asked questions
What is B1 level English?
B1 is the first Independent User level of the CEFR. At B1 you can understand the main points of clear speech on familiar topics, manage most situations while travelling and write simple connected text. Cambridge B1 Preliminary is aimed at this level.
What is B2 level English?
B2 is the upper Independent User level. You can follow the main ideas of complex text, talk with native speakers fairly fluently and give a clear, detailed view on a topic. Cambridge B2 First is aimed at this level.
Is C1 or C2 higher?
C2 is the highest CEFR level. C1 and C2 together form the Proficient User group; Cambridge C1 Advanced targets C1 and Cambridge C2 Proficiency targets C2.
How can I find out my English level?
Take a placement test that covers all six levels. The free Wrexa Edge English Level Test has 48 questions from A1 to C2 and gives an indicative CEFR level plus the Cambridge exam to aim for.