CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference)

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) provides a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications, thus facilitating educational and occupational mobility. It is increasingly used in the reform of national curricula and by international consortia for the comparison of language certificates.

The CEFR is a document which describes in a comprehensive manner:

  • the competencies necessary for communication
  • the related knowledge and skills and
  • the situations and domains of communication

The CEFR defines levels of attainment in different aspects of its descriptive scheme with illustrative descriptors scale.

The CEFR has become a key reference document and valuable tool for educational and professional mobility. It is available in over 30 language versions.

A structured way moving progressively from basic to higher levels is considered the best way of learning English.

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages is the international benchmark to describe language ability. It has 6 levels: Elementary (A1 & A2), Intermediate (B1 & B2) and Advanced (C1 & C2).

The University of Cambridge ESOL Examination scores are mapped to the CEFR.

A brief description of what a learner is expected to demonstrate at different levels of CEFR is given below: