The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) describes language ability in six levels: A1 and A2 (basic), B1 and B2 (independent) and C1 and C2 (proficient). Most university study needs about B2 to C1.
The six levels
| Level | Description | You can… |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Introduce yourself and use simple everyday phrases |
| A2 | Elementary | Handle routine tasks: shopping, directions, simple messages |
| B1 | Intermediate | Deal with most travel situations; describe experiences and plans |
| B2 | Upper intermediate | Discuss a range of topics fluently; understand complex texts |
| C1 | Advanced | Use English flexibly for study and work; express ideas precisely |
| C2 | Proficient | Understand almost everything; express fine shades of meaning |
CEFR and IELTS: a rough guide
There is no exact one-to-one conversion, but a commonly used guide is:
| CEFR | Approximate IELTS band |
|---|---|
| B1 | about 4.0–5.0 |
| B2 | about 5.5–6.5 |
| C1 | about 7.0–8.0 |
| C2 | about 8.5–9.0 |
Use this to set expectations, not as an official conversion.
How long does each level take?
It varies enormously with exposure and practice. Moving up one level commonly takes from several months to a year or more of regular study. The jump from B1 to B2 is where many learners plateau, because it needs fluency and range, not just more grammar.
How Learning Bubble's English courses map to CEFR
- English Language, Basic, roughly A1 to A2
- English Language, Intermediate, roughly B1 to B2
- English Language, Advanced, C1 and above
Find your level first
A short placement assessment saves weeks. Learners often place themselves too high in grammar and too low in speaking, or the other way round. Knowing your real level in each skill means you start in the right course and do not repeat what you already know.
See our English Language courses: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced.
Frequently asked questions
What does B2 English level mean?
Upper intermediate. You can discuss a wide range of topics fluently and understand complex texts, with some errors.
Which CEFR level do I need for university?
Many universities expect around B2 to C1, often shown through a test such as IELTS. Check each university's requirement.
Is CEFR the same as IELTS?
No. CEFR is a framework of levels; IELTS is a test. There are commonly used rough equivalences, but no exact conversion.
How do I find my English level?
Take a placement assessment covering speaking, listening, reading and writing. We include one before placing students in a course.
More IELTS, SAT & English guides
- How to choose an online English speaking course in Pakistan
- How to improve your English vocabulary: methods that actually work
- Common English mistakes Urdu speakers make, and easy fixes
- Professional email writing tips: structure, tone and templates
- English for job interviews: answers, phrases and practice tips
- IELTS band scores explained: how your score is worked out
- All IELTS, SAT & English guides →
Written by the Learning Bubble teaching team. If something here does not match your situation, ask us. We would rather give you a straight answer than have you guess.