What is CEFR Level? Common European Framework of Reference

CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is a globally recognised standard to measure the proficiency of languages. Simply, CEFR level descriptors serve as a benchmark to evaluate students’ capabilities to understand and communicate using the language for academic or professional purposes. Now, wondering what is CEFR level in India? To answer that question, CEFR level descriptors at different levels evaluate a candidate’s English proficiency through listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

This Story also Contains

1. What is CEFR?
2. CEFR Level Descriptors: Highlights
3. What are CEFR Level Descriptors?
4. CEFR Levels And Their Equivalent Scores in Different Tests

The degree of proficiency required varies depending on the preferred course and the university. Hereby, CEFR helps in this case where a standard is provided, and students can look for the equivalent levels of English proficiency exams. There is still vague confusion about what are different what is CEFR level in India, especially for study abroad.

No worries! We have mentioned in detail what is CEFR level in English in this article. We have also included brief insights on CEFR level descriptors and how it is related to language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Candidates looking to study abroad can give it a further read to understand the six CEFR level in English, ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

Also Read: CEFR and MELAB Exam

What is CEFR?

As discussed above, CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Especially for study abroad aspirants, CEFR is a universal framework developed and maintained by the Council of Europe. It offers a clear, consistent, and widely accepted framework for assessing language proficiency.

Many popular English proficiency tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DSH, DELF, etc, align as per the CEFR level in India. On that note, students also must know that CEFR level descriptors are also valid for any foreign language including French, German, and Spanish. Here are the key aspects of what is CEFR level in English language:

CEFR Level Descriptors: Highlights

What are CEFR Level Descriptors?

CEFR Levels Explained: The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages works on a 6-grade scale. There are three levels of CEFR major descriptors named Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced. These are further subdivided into 6 scales.

Simply, CEFR levels help organisations and educational institutions to compare and evaluate the qualification with other popular exams in the world. Here is the brief detailed information on each of the CEFR level test descriptors for prospects:

CEFR Level A: Basic User

CEFR Level B - Independent User

CEFR Level C - Proficient User

CEFR Levels And Their Equivalent Scores in Different Tests

Now that we already know what is CEFR levels are. We should be aware of the equivalent scores in popular language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and TESDAF. Candidates must demonstrate language proficiency for study abroad.

However, the degree of proficiency varies depending on the chosen course of study, university, and the country. We have hereby given the CEFR levels and their equivalent scores in IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and TESTDAF.

CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison

CEFR Level to TOEFL iBT Score Comparison

CEFR Level to PTE Score Comparison

CEFR Level to TestDaF Score Comparison

Generally, the TestDaF is an advanced-level language exam. It only covers CEFR level descriptors from B2 to C1 on a 6-level scale grade. Here is the TestDaF score comparison with the CEFR levels: