CEFR Level in IELTS 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Reading about CEFR in IELTS was a new and curious topic for me. Why are IELTS bands compared or converted to CEFR levels? Is CEFR that important? Can it affect your overall profile? I had numerous questions.

While researching it, I found employment and educational institutions have widely accepted the CEFR framework as an accurate method for assessing language proficiency. And by understanding CEFR levels in IELTS, you can set achievable goals for yourself. This will help you measure your progress in a better way.

This article will unveil answers to all the questions I had, highlighting how CEFR is used in IELTS and why you should know about it. So, read the article till the end.

What is CEFR Full Form?

The full form of CEFR is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

What is CEFR?

The CEFR, established in 2001, is a framework that outlines international standards for language learning, i.e., it represents different levels of what a language learner must exhibit to communicate effectively with users of that language.

It was originally set up by the Council of Europe as an official framework for language reference that can be used alike in learning, teaching, and evaluating language. It is now a language benchmark for 40 global languages.

The CEFR levels start from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient). Universities, individuals, and organizations can use the CEFR scale to understand and compare your linguistic ability.

What is CEFR Level?

The CEFR uses a six-point scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) to organize language proficiency, beginning from A1 (basic user) and going up to C2 (proficient user) for those with mastery over any language. These levels can be regrouped into three broad levels: Basic User (A1 & A2), Independent User (B1 & B2), and Proficient User (C1 & C2).

Meaning of CEFR Level A1

A1 CEFR level, or the Beginner level, shows the ability to understand a number of simple expressions related to personal needs, as well as communicate in a similar fashion. At this level, learners should be able to greet and introduce themselves and others, ask simple questions and answer questions about the self, and carry out a limited amount of interaction with the other person on condition the other person speaks slowly and distinctly.

Meaning of CEFR Level A2

CEFR Level A2, or the "Elementary" level, signifies that the learner can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. This includes basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, and employment. Learners at this level can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a direct exchange of information.

Meaning of CEFR Level B1

CEFR Level B1, referred to as the "Intermediate" level, means that the learner can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.

Meaning of CEFR Level B2

CEFR Level B2, or the "Upper Intermediate" level, indicates that the learner can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.

Meaning of CEFR Level C1

CEFR Level C1, the "Advanced" level, shows that the learner can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning. They can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.

Meaning of CEFR Level C2

CEFR Level C2, the "Proficient" level, signifies that the learner can understand virtually everything heard or read with ease. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts coherently. They can express themselves spontaneously, fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

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Why is CEFR Used in IELTS?

Before gaining insights into the IELTS band score and the CEFR level, it is important to understand the importance and objectives of CEFR. The CEFR was made to ensure more standardized scales for determining fluency in languages with more reliable indicators.

It is used for many language tests worldwide, including IELTS. It is also used for the conversion of scores in TOEFL. Here are some other objectives of the CEFR test:-

• Helps in backing the continued development and demonstration of progress for language learners at an individual level.
• Helps in the definition of can-do and positive descriptors which are suited to learner needs, interests, and age.
• Helps in the development of teaching material while enabling more cooperation among those teaching various types of languages.
• It also boosts standardized assessment, teaching, and learning.
• It enables comparability for various types of certifications.
• The CEFR seeks to encourage individuals in the field of language, including learners, to reflect on questions like those recommended in Notes for the user with regard to the analysis of various teaching or learning situations.
• It also helps entities define what they want learners to achieve and how to do it.

IELTS aspirants often require their scores to be converted to the CEFR levels to bring clarity to the reviewer’s table (employer, organization, and schools.

The IELTS marks an individual’s English language competency on a scale of nine bands and comprises four sections, namely, Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

The score bands and their corresponding skill levels are the following:-

• Expert
• Very Good
• Good
• Competent
• Modest
• Limited
• Extremely Limited 
• Intermittent
• Non-User
• Did not take the test

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How to Compare CEFR to IELTS

It is not difficult to convert IELTS scores into their corresponding CEFR levels. You should go by a rule of thumb where the IELTS 7.5 band score equates to the C1 level in the CEFR. Similarly, 4.5 as the IELTS band score will equate to the B1 level in the CEFR.

The IELTS framework used for comparison with the CEFR level is the mean band scores reported on the Test Report Form, not the band scores for individual modules.

Here is a table showing the CEFR and IELTS comparison:-

CEFR Level	Level of Proficiency	Corresponding IELTS Score Band
C2	Expert User	8.5 – 9.0
C1	Very Good User	8
	Good User	7.0 – 7.5
B2	Competent User	6.0 – 6.5
	Modest User	5.0 – 5.5
B1	Limited User	4.0 – 4.5
A2	Extremely Limited User	3
A1	Intermittent User	2
	Non-User	1
Maximum timeline for getting results		13 working days
Validity of the scores		Two Years

Why Compare CEFR and IELTS?

Comparisons are often inevitable for students who have applied to European universities and institutions accepting CEFR levels. Understanding the relationships and comparative scenarios between IELTS and CEFR scores is often imperative.

The CEFR was always meant to be a commonly used mechanism for reference and for reflection, communications, and empowerment as per the official guidelines.

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How do I Check My CEFR Level

To check your CEFR level, you can take standardized language tests that are mapped to the CEFR framework. Many institutions, such as language schools, universities, and professional testing organizations, offer these tests online or in-person.

Examples of such tests include the TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English exam, etc. These tests assess various language skills like reading, writing, listening & speaking, and provide a CEFR level based on your performance.

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Conclusion

The CEFR framework, with its levels ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery), offers a clear benchmark for understanding an individual's language ability. The CEFR in IELTS makes it easier for educational institutions, employers, and governmental bodies to assess and recognize the English language proficiency of IELTS test-takers.

If you are preparing for IELTS in 2024, aligning your preparation with the CEFR levels can help in setting realistic goals and measuring progress more effectively. This alignment not only aids in targeted learning but also ensures you can communicate your IELTS achievements in universally understood terms, facilitating smoother academic and professional transitions across borders.