A1 – Beginner

Use of English:

Understands and uses basic vocabulary and simple sentence structures (e.g., present tense, common verbs, basic adjectives).

Reading:

Can recognize familiar names, words, and very simple sentences (e.g., on signs or in short messages).

Writing:

Can write simple phrases and short sentences about personal details (e.g., name, nationality, likes/dislikes).

Listening:

Can understand slow, clearly articulated speech with long pauses and repetition (e.g., greetings, instructions).

Speaking:

Can use simple expressions to introduce themselves and answer basic personal questions.

A2 – Elementary

Use of English:

Manages simple grammatical structures (e.g., past tense, questions, prepositions); has a limited but growing vocabulary.

Reading:

Understands short texts such as emails, menus, schedules, or notices with common vocabulary.

Writing:

Can write brief messages and notes relating to matters of immediate need.

Listening:

Understands everyday phrases and familiar topics when speech is slow and clear.

Speaking:

Can interact in basic conversations on familiar topics if the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

B1 – Intermediate

Use of English:

Uses a range of grammatical structures with relative accuracy (e.g., conditionals, modals); vocabulary covers everyday topics.

Reading:

Can understand the main points in texts on familiar matters, including simple articles and reports.

Writing:

Can write coherent connected text on familiar topics or experiences (e.g., letters, simple essays).

Listening:

Understands main ideas in clear speech on familiar subjects (e.g., radio broadcasts, interviews).

Speaking:

Can participate in unprepared conversations on topics of personal interest or daily life.

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Use of English:

Demonstrates consistent control of complex structures and idiomatic language; vocabulary is wide and flexible.

Reading:

Can read and understand articles, reports, and literary texts with detailed argumentation.

Writing:

Writes clear, detailed text on a range of subjects, including expressing opinions and arguing for or against a point of view.

Listening:

Understands extended speech and lectures, including technical discussions related to their field.

Speaking:

Can engage in fluent conversation with native speakers on both concrete and abstract topics.

C1 – Advanced

Use of English:

Controls a broad range of structures and vocabulary with a high degree of precision; shows awareness of tone and register.

Reading:

Understands complex texts, including implicit meaning, rhetorical structure, and nuanced vocabulary.

Writing:

Produces well-structured, persuasive, and stylistically appropriate writing across various genres.

Listening:

Comprehends extended speech, even when it is not clearly structured or contains idiomatic expressions.

Speaking:

Expresses ideas fluently and spontaneously; uses language flexibly for social, academic, and professional purposes.

C2 – Proficient

Use of English:

Has near-native command of grammar and lexicon; can adapt style effortlessly to context and audience.

Reading:

Can understand virtually all types of written texts, including abstract, structurally complex, or highly literary content.

Writing:

Writes with elegance and sophistication across all genres; can construct arguments with clarity and subtlety.

Listening:

Understands any spoken language, even under adverse conditions or with unfamiliar accents.

Speaking:

Can express themselves precisely, even in the most nuanced and complex discussions.