“I’m B1”, “they want B2”, “I’d like to reach C1”… You’ve probably heard this many times. But what do English levels actually mean? In this article we explain the European framework scale, what you can do at each level, how long it takes to move up and which level you need to study or work.
What is the CEFR?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the scale used across Europe to measure language ability. It has six levels in three groups: basic user (A1 and A2), independent user (B1 and B2) and proficient user (C1 and C2). Thanks to this scale, a B2 means the same thing in Valencia, Berlin or Dublin.
The six levels, one by one
A1 – Beginner
You understand and use very basic expressions: introducing yourself, saying where you’re from, asking for something simple. The other person needs to speak slowly and help you.
A2 – Elementary
You can get by in everyday situations: shopping, ordering in a restaurant, talking about your family or job in simple sentences.
B1 – Intermediate
You can handle most situations while travelling, describe experiences and give your opinion in a simple way. Many Spanish universities require this level to graduate.
B2 – Upper intermediate
You speak fluently and naturally with native speakers, understand the main ideas of complex texts and can argue a point of view. This is the level most often required for jobs, Erasmus programmes and public-sector exams.
C1 – Advanced
You use English flexibly in social, academic and professional settings. You understand long, demanding texts and express yourself precisely, without searching for words.
C2 – Proficiency
You understand virtually everything you hear or read and express yourself with the precision of a highly educated speaker. It’s the top of the scale.
A level isn’t a grade: it’s what you can actually do with the language.
How long does it take to move up a level?
It depends on your starting point, how many hours you study and how much you practise outside class. As a guide, Cambridge estimates roughly these guided learning hours from zero:
- A2: about 180–200 hours
- B1: about 350–400 hours
- B2: about 500–600 hours
- C1: about 700–800 hours
- C2: about 1,000–1,200 hours
Notice that each step takes more work than the one before: going from B1 to B2 takes more effort than going from A1 to A2. That’s why combining classes with daily practice helps so much.
Which level do you need?
- To finish your degree: many universities ask for a certified B1.
- For Erasmus: usually B1 or B2, depending on the host university.
- For work: B2 is the most common requirement; international roles often ask for C1.
- For public-sector exams: it depends on the call; in education and some other bodies B2 or C1 is required.
Remember that for your level to count officially you need a certificate, such as LanguageCert or Cambridge.
How do you find out your English level?
Free online tests give a rough idea, but they usually only measure grammar and vocabulary. To know your real level, your speaking and writing need to be assessed too. At Koyot Academy we help you find out your level before you start, so you join the right group from day one.
Level up at Koyot Academy
At our English school in Mislata you learn in small groups with a communicative method, speaking from the very first lesson. And if you need to certify your level, we prepare you for an official English certificate: we are an official LanguageCert exam centre.
Frequently asked questions
What level is “intermediate” English?
What people usually call “intermediate” on a CV roughly matches B1. If you can, write your CEFR level instead: it’s clearer for employers.
Can I skip a level?
Yes, you can sit the exam for the level you need straight away. You don’t need certificates for the lower levels first.
What’s the difference between B2 and C1?
At B2 you communicate with ease; at C1 you do so precisely and effortlessly, even on complex or professional topics.
Want to try it before you decide? Come and visit the school: your first trial lesson is free, with no strings attached.
