All language schools in Europe (and now many language schools around the world) use the same framework to assess students’ level of proficiency.
Levels A1 → C2
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CECRL in French) is a document that was published by the Council of Europe in 2001, in order to assess a learner’s proficiency level in a foreign language based on their performance in various fields of expertise. These proficiency levels now constitute the framework of reference for learning and teaching languages in many countries. In France, they are included in the Education Code as proficiency levels in foreign languages expected from students in primary and secondary schools.
The main innovation introduced by the CECRL framework is the assessment chart of language proficiency, which is independent of the assessing organisation, and can be applied to any language. Other assessment methods are often only valid in a given country, or a given school, and can generally only be applied to a specific language. For these reasons, organisations are increasingly inclined to use the same assessment bank of descriptors based on the CECRL proficiency levels, or at least to provide a conversion grid.
PROFICIENT USER
C2
Understands practically everything read or heard with ease. Can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent manner. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating even the finest distinctions of meaning in complex situations.
C1
Can understand a wide range of demanding longer texts, and recognize implicit meanings. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for words. Can use the language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can express him/herself clearly, using well-structured sentences on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
INDEPENDENT USER
B2
Can understand the main ideas of complex, standard or abstract texts and can follow a technical discussion in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers possible without strain for either party. Can produce a clear and detailed speech on a wide range of subjects and explain a point of view on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
B1
Can understand the main points of a clear and standard communication, and is capable of input on familiar matters (work, studies, hobbies etc.) Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple and relevant text on topics which are familiar, or of personal interest. Can describe events, experiences, dreams, hopes, goals, and briefly justify a project.
BASIC USER
A2
Can understand isolated sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance (personal and family information, shopping, local geography and work). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information. Can describe his or her path and immediate environment in simple terms and express him/herself on matters in areas of immediate need.
A1
Can understand and use familiar daily expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete nature. Can introduce him/herself or introduce someone. Can ask and answer questions about personal details (who he or she is, where he or she lives, what he or she possesses etc.) Can interact in a simple way provided that the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
French Residence Card → A2 French Citizenship → B1
Apply for a Bachelor’s degree → B2 Apply for a Master’s degree → C1
Same classification for all language tests
TCF
TEF
DELF / DALF
IELTS
TOEFL (ib)
TOEFL (cb)
TOEIC
HSK
Goethe
DELE
PROFICIENT USER
C2
600
834
DALF C2
8.0
119
300
990
-
6
C2
C1
500
699
DALF C1
5
110
270
945
6
5
C1
INDEPENDENT USER
B2
400
541
DELF B2
5.0
87
227
785
5
4
B2
B1
300
361
DELF B1
4.0
57
163
550
4
3
B1
BASIC USER
A2
200
204
DELF A2
3.0
18
60
225
3
2
A2
A1
100
69
DELF A1
2.0
-
-
120
2
1
A1
The vast majority of our students progress from the level A1 to C1 in 12 months.
The progression at the Alliance Française
hours usually required to progress to the next level
