The ABCs of English Levels – Key to Unlocking Doors to Success

‍Have you ever been told that you need a certain level of English to qualify for a job or to graduate from a program? If so, it’s highly probable that the next thing you wondered was what it actually means to have that level or what language skills you need to achieve it? To clarify these doubts, you need to understand the ABCs of English levels. 

🔑 Unlock Your Potential: The 3 Stages of Fluency

• The Framework: The CEFR is a universal system that divides proficiency into six levels, from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient).
• Basic Users (A1-A2): You move from simple greetings to handling everyday social situations like ordering food or asking for directions.
• Independent Users (B1-B2): At this stage, you can fit into English-speaking workplaces, share complex opinions, and understand different dialects.
• Proficient Users (C1-C2): You achieve professional and academic mastery, expressing yourself fluently and precisely like a local.

A1-C2, discover how each level broadens the world 

These levels aren’t just job or graduation requirements; they are stages of communication that show how well you can navigate English-speaking environments; be it studies or work. In a way, the levels of English are a set of keys and each key unlocks a new door to better work, study or travel opportunities. 

This article focuses on bringing clarity to the basics – or the ABCs – of English levels based on the CEFR framework. Before you start your English learning journey, it’s vital to understand where you stand. Every English learning path begins with knowing your level and understanding all levels.  Here is a simple way to test your level. 

Understanding the Common European Framework of References for Language (CEFR)

The Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR) is a universal system and a reference tool to determine any language’s proficiency level. The CEFR framework helps to determine your language learning objectives, the teaching material you require to achieve that goal and the learning path that’s best suited for you. 

The CEFR divides language proficiency into six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient), where A1 and A2 are basic levels, B1 and B2 are independent levels and C1 and C2 are advanced levels. 

CEFR Levels: What Can You Achieve at Each Stage?

‍A1 (Beginner / Elementary Level)

Learners who begin at A1 level have little or no prior knowledge of English. This is their first interaction with the language. Completing A1 level gives them their first key that opens the door to simple conversations. An A1 learner can:

• Greet others
• Introduce themselves 
• Understand familiar phrases and vocabulary
• Participate in basic conversations
• Write simple messages or texts

If you were travelling in an English-speaking country, with A1 level you could read signs, ask for help, find your way around town and interact with people on a basic level. 

‍A2 (Basic / Pre-Intermediate Level)

A2 level focuses on making learners more efficient in everyday social situations. Completing A2 level gives you the second key, making English feel more like a tool rather than a list of memorized words. An A2 learner can: 

• Order food 
• Ask for directions 
• Maintain short conversations
• Express simple opinions
• Give compliments
• Make simple inquiries

At this point in your travel journey, you could strike up some conversations with locals, feel more comfortable shopping in supermarkets and move  around town much more easily.

‍B1 (Intermediate)

At B1 level, you move from being a basic learner to an independent learner: you are no longer an outsider to the English-speaking world – you are a part of it now. Completing B1 level gives you the third key, allowing you to fit well in most English-speaking workplaces and giving you access to global study and work opportunities. At this stage you can:

• Engage in more complex conversations
• Express difficult ideas and opinions 
• Feel more confident in English speaking environments
• Write texts on simple or familiar subjects
• Understand a variety of opinions and speakers

With B1 level, now in your travel adventure you you could now handle most unexpected situations, bond with locals, and share your culture or opinions on complex issues.

B2 (Upper-Intermediate)

At B2 level, you already have a good grasp of the English language. Completing B2 level gives you the fourth key that opens the door to more enriching and layered interactions. At this stage you can: 

• Participate in spontaneous conversations
• Express your opinions on complex, academic or theoretical topics
• Write texts on difficult or unfamiliar subjects
• Understand different accents, and dialects, etc. 

Now you would be not just sharing ideas and opinions, you would be capable of conducting passionate debates, understanding the culture of the country in depth and feel like a part of it.

C1 (Advanced) 

At C1 level, you move from being an independent learner to an advanced one. Completing C1 level gives you the fifth key that opens up a world of immense possibilities because now you are capable of discussing and understanding a wide range of topics, and fluently speaking and interacting in any situation. At this stage, you can: 

• Use English in a myriad of contexts – social, professional, academic, etc.
• Comprehend any complex idea
• Express yourself like a pro, fluently and intelligently.
• Work or study in any English-speaking enviroment

The C1 Level would make you feel almost like a local during your travels. 

‍C2 (Proficiency)

At C2 level, which is the last level in the CEFR framework, your English skills know no bounds: you are considered proficient in the language. Completing the level gives you the sixth and the last key that declares you a master of the language. At this stage, you are:

• Articulate and precise 
• Capable of understanding anything in English, from complex academic texts to speakers of any accent or dialect. 

Finally, with C2 level you would be able to navigate like a native. 

Final Thoughts: Your Key to Global Opportunities

Now that you are familiar with the ABCs of English levels, you will notice how each level opens a new door of exciting opportunities. Along with the passing of every level, you become more fluent and confident in yourself. In this global era, English is not just a language; it is a bridge to success

Furthermore, if you have ever felt like a more confident, funnier, or livelier person in your native language, but feel your personality 'dulls down' when speaking English, you are not alone. A lack of proficiency can sometimes compromise how others perceive you, making you feel less than you truly are. With the passing of each level, you get closer to presenting your most authentic and original self.

To open doors to success, follow adventures abroad, and present yourself with confidence, discover more about our Virtual English Courses and explore our blog for more expert tips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

‍1. What is the CEFR and why is it important?

‍The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a universal system used to determine your proficiency level in any language. It is essential because it helps set clear learning objectives and defines the skills you need for jobs or academic graduations.

2. How many levels of English are there?‍

The CEFR divides proficiency into six levels: A1 and A2 (Basic), B1 and B2 (Independent), and C1 and C2 (Advanced/Proficient).

3. What can I do with a B2 level of English?

‍At the B2 level, you have a solid grasp of the language. You can participate in spontaneous conversations, express opinions on complex or academic topics, and understand various accents or dialects.

4. Is C1 level considered bilingual?

‍While "bilingual" often refers to native-like fluency, a C1 level means you are an advanced learner who can use English fluently and intelligently in social, professional, and academic contexts.

References

• Council of Europe. (n.d.). The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages
• Cambridge University Press & Assessment. (2023). International language standards: Explaining the CEFR. https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-tests/cefr/
• Council of Europe. (n.d.). The CEFR levels: Global scale. https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/table-1-cefr-3.3-common-reference-levels-global-scale