CEFR levels explained: from A1 to C2
The international scale behind every IELTS band and Cambridge exam, and how to find yours.
The short answer
CEFR = the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It sorts English ability into six levels across three bands: A (Basic user), B (Independent user) and C (Proficient user).
It’s the common language behind exams and courses everywhere: when you know your CEFR level, you instantly know which IELTS band and Cambridge exam fit you.
The six levels, in plain English
What you can typically do at each stage.
| Level | Name | You can… |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Use basic phrases, introduce yourself, ask simple questions |
| A2 | Elementary | Handle simple, everyday tasks and familiar topics |
| B1 | Intermediate | Cope while travelling, describe experiences, give opinions |
| B2 | Upper-Intermediate | Interact fluently, follow detailed text, ready for work & study |
| C1 | Advanced | Use English flexibly & effectively for academic and professional life |
| C2 | Proficiency | Understand almost everything; express yourself with near-native ease |
CEFR, IELTS & Cambridge: the master map
One table to translate between every system.
| CEFR | IELTS band | Cambridge exam |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | 3.0 – 3.5 | A2 Key (KET) |
| B1 | 4.0 – 5.0 | B1 Preliminary (PET) |
| B2 | 5.5 – 6.5 | B2 First (FCE) |
| C1 | 7.0 – 8.0 | C1 Advanced (CAE) |
| C2 | 8.5 – 9.0 | C2 Proficiency (CPE) |
How long does each level take?
As a rough guide, moving up one full CEFR level takes around 180–200 hours of guided learning, about 8–12 weeks of full-time study, depending on your starting point, your first language and how much you practise outside class. Progress is fastest at the lower levels and naturally slows as you approach C1–C2.
What’s your English level?
The best way to find out is a quick placement test. It checks grammar, vocabulary and comprehension and places you in exactly the right class, so you never waste time repeating what you already know.
Free online placement test
Find your CEFR level in about 15 minutes, wherever you are.
Take the test →General English by level
Classes from A1 to C1 across all six campuses: move up as you improve.
Explore General English →📍 Noosa · Sunshine Coast · Brisbane · Byron Bay · Sydney · Perth. Already know your goal? Talk to an advisor about the right course.
CEFR: frequently asked questions
What does CEFR stand for?
Is B2 a good level of English?
What CEFR level do I need for university?
How do I find out my level?
Keep reading
More from the Lexis English study guides.
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