When embarking on a language learning journey, understanding language proficiency levels is essential. These frameworks help you assess your language skills and track your progress.
Let’s introduce you to the most common language proficiency frameworks.
Understanding the Common Language Proficiency Frameworks
Several frameworks exist to assess your ability to use language into language proficiency levels.
Two widely recognized frameworks are the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Proficiency Guidelines.
Additionally, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is commonly used to assess English language proficiency.
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
The CEFR is a widely used framework developed by the Council of Europe. It provides a comprehensive description of language proficiency levels for a range of languages.
The CEFR divides levels of language proficiency into six: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Each level corresponds to a set of skills and abilities that learners should possess.
This framework is the language learning standard in Europe, and has gained international recognition as well. It provides a clear and structured framework for self-assessment and for evaluating language proficiency levels in various contexts.
The framework is used throughout Europe for language learning materials, language courses, and language proficiency exams.
| CEFR Level | Description |
|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner: Can understand and use basic phrases and expressions. |
| A2 | Elementary: Can communicate in simple everyday situations. |
| B1 | Intermediate: Can understand and express ideas on familiar topics. |
| B2 | Upper Intermediate: Can communicate effectively and spontaneously. |
| C1 | Advanced: Can use language flexibly and effectively in most situations. |
| C2 | Proficient: Can understand virtually everything and express themselves with precision. |
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Proficiency Guidelines
The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Proficiency Guidelines are widely used in the United States to assess and describe language proficiency levels.
They consist of five levels: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior, and Distinguished. Each level is further divided into low, mid, and high sublevels to provide a more detailed assessment. The table below provides an overview of the ACTFL proficiency levels:
The ACTFL framework focuses on what learners can do with the language in various contexts and emphasize real-world communication. They are used in language education, language proficiency testing, and professional contexts to evaluate and describe language skills.
| ACTFL Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Novice | Can understand and use basic phrases and expressions in familiar contexts. |
| Intermediate | Can handle a variety of straightforward communicative tasks. |
| Advanced | Can participate in conversations on a wide range of topics. |
| Superior | Can use language effectively and flexibly in social, professional, and academic contexts. |
| Distinguished | Can comprehend and express themselves with near-native proficiency. |
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized English language proficiency test. It assesses the four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
IELTS provides a band score from 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest level of proficiency.
| IELTS Band Score | Proficiency Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Expert User | You have fully operational command of the language. Your use of English is appropriate, accurate, and fluent, with complete understanding. |
| 8 | Very Good User | You have fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and misunderstandings. Can handle complex detailed argumentation well. |
| 7 | Good User | You have operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage, and misunderstandings in some situations. Can handle complex language well. |
| 6 | Competent User | You have generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage, and misunderstandings. You can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. |
| 5 | Modest User | You have a partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though you are likely to make many mistakes. You should be able to handle basic communication in your own field. |
| 4 | Limited User | Your basic competence is limited to familiar situations. You frequently show problems in understanding and expression. You are not able to use complex language. |
| 3 | Extremely Limited User | You convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication. |
| 2 | Intermittent User | You have great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. |
| 1 | Non-User | You have no ability to use the language except for a few isolated words. |
| 0 | Did not attempt the test | You did not answer the questions. |
IELTS scores are accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities in many English-speaking countries as proof of English language proficiency. The test is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to understand and use English in academic and everyday contexts.
Comparison of Frameworks
It is not completely possible to map the CEFR, ACTFL and IELTS language proficiency levels on to each other. However, a rough comparison is shown in the table below.
| CEFR Level | ACTFL Level | IELTS Band Score | Description of Proficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Novice Low/Mid | 1.0 – 2.5 | Basic ability to communicate with memorized words and simple phrases. |
| A2 | Novice High/Intermediate Low | 3.0 – 4.0 | Can handle simple, routine tasks and express basic needs. |
| B1 | Intermediate Mid | 4.5 – 5.5 | Can deal with familiar situations and straightforward information. |
| B2 | Intermediate High/Advanced Low | 6.0 – 6.5 | Can interact with some fluency and spontaneity, handle complex tasks. |
| C1 | Advanced Mid/Advanced High | 7.0 – 8.0 | Can use language effectively and flexibly for social, academic, and professional purposes. |
| C2 | Superior/Distinguished | 8.5 – 9.0 | Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read; can express themselves very fluently and precisely. |
By familiarizing yourself with these common language proficiency frameworks, such as the CEFR, ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines, and IELTS, you can better understand and communicate your language skills. These frameworks provide a standardized way to assess language proficiency and can be useful for setting goals, selecting language courses, and evaluating your progress.
Understanding any of these common language proficiency frameworks will help you assess your current language skills and set achievable goals.
Conclusion
Understanding your language proficiency level is a crucial step in your language learning journey.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been learning a language for years, knowing where you stand helps you set realistic goals, choose the right learning materials, and track your progress effectively. It allows you to identify your strengths and pinpoint the areas that need improvement, making your study sessions more focused and efficient.
Moreover, having a clear understanding of your level is essential when applying for academic programs, jobs, or visas, as it helps you meet the language requirements with confidence.
Nevertheless, language learning is a lifelong journey that goes beyond passing tests and earning certificates. It’s about expanding your horizons, connecting with people from different cultures, and enhancing your personal and professional opportunities.
No matter your current level, there’s always room to grow and improve. Keep challenging yourself, practice regularly, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every step you take brings you closer to fluency and a deeper understanding of the language and culture you’re studying.
Remember, consistency is key—every day you spend learning is an investment in your future.
Further Reading
FAQ
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What are the 5 levels of language proficiency?
The 5 language proficiency levels in the ACTFL framework are Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior, and Distinguished.
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What is A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 language proficiency?
A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 & C2 are the language proficiency bands in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
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What are the 6 levels of English proficiency?
The six levels of English proficiency for those schools still using the CEFR framework (after Brexit!) refer to A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 & C2.
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What are the 4 levels of language proficiency?
The 4 language proficiency level that are often used in colloquial speech are ‘beginner’, ‘intermediate’, ‘advanced’ and ‘native level’. However there are no widely recognised frameworks that recognise these specific labels.
Cate is a language enthusiast sharing her language learning journey here. Apart from her native English (albeit 'Strine'*!), as an adult she has also learned Auslan (Australian Sign Language) to approximately a C1 level, Dutch to around B1/2, French to around A2, and has a smattering of other languages.
B.A. (Anthropology/Marketing), Grad. Dip. Arts (Linguistics), Grad. Cert. Entrepreneurship & Venture Development, (CELTA).
Auslan Interpreter (NAATI), and general Language Nut.
*For more information on 'Strine', visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strine
