cefr_level_ielts_b852a211fe

How to Compare CEFR with IELTS Scores?
Refer to the table below to know the comparison between CEFR and IELTS scores. Each
level is discussed subsequently.
CEFR Level Language Proficiency Level Corresponding IELTS Band Score
C2 Expert User 8.5 - 9.0
C1 Very Good User 8.0
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 3.0
A1 Intermittent User 2.0
Non - User 1.0

Result Availability (maximum) 13 working days
Score Validity 2 Years
CEFR Level A1
CEFR level A1 refers to a basic user. Can comprehend and use simple terms. Identify
themselves and provide or request for personal information. Can talk about common
everyday topics.
CEFR Level A2
CEFR level A2 is about a basic user who can interpret commonly used phrases and
expressions in day-to-day contexts like shopping, work, etc. Can give simple directions.
Discuss various desires and requirements.
CEFR Level B1
CEFR level B1 refers to an independent user who can comprehend and talk about family,
friends, work and leisure activities. Can articulate travel needs, brief paragraphs based on
interests, aspirations and experiences.
CEFR Level B2
CEFR level B2 is equivalent to an independent user who is capable of composing
documents of various themes. Comprehend major concepts using complicated texts.
Discuss naturally with native speakers.
CEFR Level C1
CEFR level C1 talks about a proficient user who can comprehend convoluted talks or
messages. Explain difficult concepts in professional, social or formal situations. Write
detailed texts about in-depth subjects.
CEFR Level C2
CEFR level C2 is assigned to a proficient user who can comprehend, summarise any data
that is easy to understand. In challenging circumstances, they can express themselves
clearly.
Likewise, IELTS (International English Language Test System) is an international

standardised test with four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Non-native
English speakers take this test to prove their language proficiency. Scores obtained out of 40
are converted to the band scale of 0 to 9.
Why Compare CEFR with IELTS?

If you’re planning to study in European universities, then you must compare CEFR with
IELTS. It is necessary to understand the relationships and comparative scenarios between
IELTS and CEFR scores. Here’s why:
● CEFR level uses more standardised scales to determine fluency in the English
language.
● In Europe, teachers, examiners and students compare language skills and scores
from tests and qualifications with CEFR.
● Since schools, colleges & universities find difficulty in measuring a student’s
language proficiency based on the IELTS band (eg. 8.0 - 8.5), they interpret IELTS
scores to CEFR levels.
● Companies and other organisations prefer CEFR-level IELTS scores to measure a
candidate’s language fluency.
● As the IELTS 7.5 band score equates to the C1 level, and the 4.5 band score
equates to the B1 level in the CEFR, IELTS users may know how much in IELTS will
lead to achieving B1, B2 or above in CEFR.
● CEFR level IELTS scores comparison eliminates vague terms like “Basic,”
“Intermediate,” and “Advanced” with the help of accurate indicators.
● Since CEFR stands for reflection, communication and empowerment, they convert
IELTS scores recorded in the Test Report Form into the CEFR levels using a simple
process.
What is the CEFR Level?

CEFR level is a scale with six points (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) ranging from A1 (basic
fluency) to C2 (native-fluency level). It’s developed to replace the old way of describing
language ability, like “beginner,” “intermediate,” and “advanced.” Teachers & learners across
Europe use CEFR levels to interpret and compare different language proficiency levels with
more reliable indicators. In addition, CEFR converts TOEFL and PTE scores.
The CEFR English test is a popularly acknowledged language standard initiated by the
Council of Europe in the 1990s to help anyone involved in language teaching and testing.
Companies and educational institutions use CEFR to compare language qualifications to
other exams in their country. Since CEFR level IELTS is different from others, Cambridge
Assessment English (CAE) mapped the correlation between IELTS band scores and CEFR
fluency levels.
As per the Council of Europe, the main objectives of the CEFR test are as follows:
1. Promote plurilingualism and language diversification in the curriculum.
2. Develop the language curricula, positive ‘can-do’ statements and descriptors based
on the learner’s interests, needs, and age group.
3. Design and develop notes, textbooks and other teaching materials.
4. Provide quality and success in the learning process, teaching and standardised
assessment.
5. Support the development of the plurilingual profile of language learners.
6. Ensure transparency and the comparability of certifications.
7. Enable teacher education and build cooperation among teachers and educators of
various languages.
Key Notes on Overlapping
By now, you would notice that some IELTS scores overlap on two scores of the CEFR chart.
For instance, the IELTS band 6.5 is between B2 and C1 of CEFR. It indicates that when
certain applicants have a band score of 6.5, some might fall under the C1 level, while others
might have B2 level fluency based on their skills. However, the interpretation of scores varies
depending on the expectations set by various universities. So, a top-tier university with high
expectations always assigns C1 to band 7 rather than 6.5. Hence you are advised to
double-check the university’s minimum language requirements and prepare accordingly.

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How to Compare CEFR with IELTS Scores?

CEFR Level Language Proficiency Level Corresponding IELTS Band Score

C2 Expert User 8.5 - 9.0

C1 Very Good User 8.0

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 3.0

A1 Intermittent User 2.0

Non - User 1.0

Score Validity 2 Years

Likewise, IELTS (International English Language Test System) is an international

Why Compare CEFR with IELTS?

What is the CEFR Level?

Key Notes on Overlapping

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