English Levels Explained

Amberly Learning uses the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) to help you understand your English level and choose the right learning path.

CEFR Level	What it means	You can…	IELTS Equivalent
A1 Beginner	You are just starting to learn English. You can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.	Introduce yourself and others Ask and answer simple questions Talk about where you live, people you know and things you have Understand and use basic expressions in everyday situations	1.0 – 2.5 Basic user — You are building foundational skills.
A2 Elementary	You can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance.	Communicate in simple, routine tasks Describe your background, home, work and daily activities Shop, order food and ask for help Write short, simple messages	3.0 – 3.5 Basic user — You can handle simple communication.
B1 Intermediate	You can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling or in everyday life. You can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar.	Understand main points in clear texts on familiar topics Deal with situations when travelling Talk about experiences, events and ambitions Write simple connected text	4.0 – 5.0 Modest user — You can communicate effectively in familiar situations.
B2 Upper Intermediate	You can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your field.	Interact with fluency and spontaneity Understand detailed arguments and discussions Express opinions and explain advantages/disadvantages Write clear, detailed text on a range of topics	5.5 – 6.5 Competent user — You can communicate clearly and confidently in most situations.
C1 Advanced	You can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously.	Understand complex information and implied meaning Express ideas fluently and precisely Use language flexibly and effectively in social, academic and professional contexts Write well-structured, detailed and nuanced text	7.0 – 8.0 Good user — You have strong control of English in complex situations.
C2 Proficient	You can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. You can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts.	Understand everything you read or hear with ease Express yourself precisely, fluently and subtly Distinguish finer shades of meaning Write sophisticated, complex text with clarity and style	8.5 – 9.0 Expert user — You have a near-native command of English.