CEFR level IELTS exam - A score comparison

What is CEFR Level?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a comprehensive scale comprising six proficiency levels, denoted as A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Ranging from essential fluency (A1) to native-fluency level (C2), it replaces the traditional descriptors of language ability, such as "beginner," "intermediate," and "advanced."

Widely adopted in Europe, this scale serves as a more reliable indicator for interpreting and comparing language proficiency levels among teachers and learners. Initially introduced by the Council of Europe in the 1990s, the CEFR English test has become a widely recognised language standard.

CEFR Level IELTS facilitates language teaching and testing by providing a structured framework for analysing English language proficiency. In addition to its utility or significance within Europe, companies and educational institutions use CEFR to compare language qualifications with other exams in their respective countries. 

CEFR's versatility extends beyond IELTS, as it also converts scores from tests like TOEFL and PTE. Cambridge Assessment English (CAE) has played a pivotal role in establishing the correlation between IELTS band scores and CEFR fluency levels, recognising the unique characteristics of CEFR level IELTS.

According to the Council of Europe, the CEFR test serves several key objectives:

1. Promoting plurilingualism: Encouraging diversity and multilingualism in curricula.

2. Developing language curricula: Creating positive 'can-do' statements and descriptors based on learners' interests, needs, and age groups.

3. Designing teaching materials: Developing notes, textbooks, and other teaching materials to enhance language learning.

4. Ensuring quality in learning and assessment: Providing benchmarks for quality and success in the learning process, teaching, and standardised assessment.

5. Supporting plurilingual profiles: Assisting in developing plurilingual profiles for language learners.

6. Ensuring transparency and comparability: Maintaining transparency and comparability of certifications.

7. Facilitating teacher education and cooperation: Enabling teacher education and fostering cooperation among teachers and educators of various languages.

Here is a chart that indicates CEFR levels and language proficiency levels:

How to compare CEFR level IELTS scores?

First, let us get to know how to compare CEFR Level IELTS scores in the table below: 

CEFR Level A1

Describing a basic user, Level A1 involves understanding and using simple terms, providing personal information, and engaging in conversations about common everyday topics.

CEFR Level A2

For a basic user at Level A2, individuals can interpret commonly used phrases in various contexts, such as shopping or work, give simple directions, and discuss personal preferences and requirements.

CEFR Level B1

At CEFR Level B1, characterised as an independent user, individuals can understand and discuss topics like family, friends, work, and leisure activities. At this level, individuals can express their travel needs and write brief paragraphs about their interests, aspirations, and experiences.

CEFR Level B2

CEFR level B2 represents an independent user who can compose documents on various themes, comprehend complex texts, and engage in natural conversations with native speakers.

CEFR Level C1

A proficient user at Level C1 can understand complex talks or messages, explain intricate concepts in professional, social, or formal situations, and write detailed texts on in-depth subjects.

CEFR Level C2

Designated for proficient users, Level C2 involves comprehending and summarising easily understandable information and expressing oneself clearly, even in challenging circumstances.

Similarly, the International English Language Test System (IELTS) is a standardised test with four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Non-native English speakers take this test to show their language proficiency. Scores, ranging from 0 to 40, are converted to the band scale of 0 to 9.

Why Compare CEFR with IELTS?

Now that you understand the comparison chart of CEFR Level IELTS let’s examine why it is necessary to compare CEFR with IELTS. Comparing CEFR with IELTS is essential if you're considering studying at European universities.

Understanding the relationships and comparative scenarios between CEFR Level IELTS scores is crucial. Here's why:

• Standardised scales in CEFR: The CEFR level utilises more standardised scales to assess fluency in the English language.

• Comparison in Europe: In Europe, teachers, examiners, and students use CEFR to compare language skills and scores from various tests and qualifications such as the IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and many more.

• Difficulty in measuring IELTS bands: Schools, colleges, and universities often need help to measure a student's language proficiency based on specific IELTS bands (e.g., 8.0 - 8.5).

• Interpreting IELTS scores to CEFR levels: Institutions interpret IELTS scores to CEFR levels to better understand a candidate's language proficiency.

• Correlation between IELTS bands and CEFR levels: An IELTS band score of 7.5 equates to the C1 level, while a score of 4.5 corresponds to the CEFR level B1. This correlation helps IELTS users understand how their scores align with CEFR levels.

• Elimination of vague terms: Comparing CEFR level IELTS scores eliminates vague terms like "Basic," "Intermediate," and "Advanced," thereby providing more accurate indicators of language proficiency.

• Conversion Process by CEFR: CEFR, standing for reflection, communication, and empowerment, converts IELTS scores recorded in the Test Report Form into the corresponding CEFR levels through a simple process that helps students get into European universities more effectively, as CEFR scores are more prominent and widely accepted in Europe.

Importance of Language Proficiency Tests

Language proficiency tests examine individuals' skills or abilities concerning a particular language proficiency, which is necessary for living and studying abroad. A candidate can determine their current level of proficiency in learning a new language by receiving a reliable and accurate indication of their foreign language proficiency. Moreover, the significance of language proficiency tests is explained below in detail:

1. Academic Chances:

1. University Admission

Proof of language competency is often required to enter colleges and educational institutions. A good result on the language proficiency exam can make getting into prominent programs easier.

2. Scholarships and Grants

Financial assistance and scholarships are only available to students with specific language competency requirements.

2. Immigration and Visa Requirements

1. Visa Applications

In many countries, proof of language ability is required when applying for a visa, particularly work or study visas.

2. Permanent Residency

Communicating in another language is frequently a prerequisite for obtaining citizenship or permanent residency in another nation.

3. Professional Advantages

1. Employment Advantages

Employers frequently require language competency for positions requiring non-native language communication. A proficiency test result may benefit your resume.

2. Career Advancement

Proving one's language proficiency can lead to prospects for job advancement, overseas postings, and promotions.

4. Global Mobility

1. Study Abroad

Gaining admission to foreign universities is made simpler by the need for students to demonstrate their language skills to study abroad.

2. Travel

Interacting successfully in other nations when travelling might make your travels more enjoyable.

Conclusion

To summarise, understanding "CEFR level IELTS" is crucial for studying in Europe. CEFR is an international framework interpreting IELTS scores on a six-point scale. Plan your IELTS prep based on this interpretation for a successful journey abroad. Some IELTS scores, like 6.5, overlap on two CEFR levels, indicating you may fall between CEFR Level B2 and C1. Interpretation varies among universities, with top-tier ones often assigning C1 to band 7 instead of 6.5. Therefore, you should check specific university requirements carefully.

We hope this blog helped you understand CEFR Level IELTS. However, you can contact Prepare IELTS (PI) expert counsellors for further guidance. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best advice in IELTS writing preparation. You can get a one-on-one counselling session online via our platform. Contact us at info@prepareieltsexam.com or call us at +91 9773398388.