The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)
The Framework of Reference ensures comparability
The European Framework of Reference for Languages makes language competence transparent and comparable. For each sub-qualification (listening, reading, writing and speaking) there are detailed descriptions of which language competence is achieved at which level.
Language level - what can I do and when?
The chart gives the answer. Here you will find the exact description of each language competence level.
- A 1 - Orientation
You understand and use simple sentences and everyday expressions. You can introduce yourself and others, and ask and answer questions about personal details, background, knowledge, and things.
- A 2 - Communicate
You can ask and answer short questions in daily business situations, make simple statements, and navigate in travel situations. You understand slow and clear speech, including over the phone. You can read and understand simple texts, signs, and instructions, as well as fill out forms and write simple instructions.
- B 1 - Active Participation
In your field of work, you represent your company in international contacts. You communicate in a targeted manner and are able to make differentiated statements. You can follow conversations and telephone calls with increasing confidence. You understand standard business correspondence, reports and minutes and compose simple business texts and minutes of results.
- B 2 - Contribute
You can express your professional authority convincingly in a foreign language. You are able to work with project participants in their native language and can give short presentations spontaneously. You follow negotiations and presentations and are confident in technically difficult telephone conversations. You read and understand sophisticated newspaper articles, trade journals and business reports.
- C 1 - Manage
You feel confident communicating with interlocutors in their native language and successfully use your high level of linguistic competence in all business situations. You follow complicated negotiations at normal conversational speed and also recognize idiomatic subtleties. You handle documents at all levels of business communication. You independently write speech manuscripts and reports on complex topics.
- C 2 - Act with confidence
You communicate in the foreign language as naturally as in your native language. You master the linguistic subtleties and participate in all business situations in a relaxed and active manner. You also feel completely confident on the telephone. You read and understand any written document effortlessly.
