In the world of English proficiency testing, the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two widely recognized systems.
Understanding how to convert your CEFR level to IELTS can be crucial for meeting university admission requirements, job qualifications, or visa regulations.
In this article, we’ll delve into how to make this conversion and explore the significance of each system.
CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison
When preparing for the IELTS exam, it’s helpful to know how your CEFR level translates to your IELTS band scores.
This comparison can guide your study goals and help you understand what scores you need to achieve for your specific needs.
Here’s how CEFR levels convert into IELTS scores:
CEFR Level | Language Proficiency Level | Corresponding IELTS Band Score |
C2 | Proficient | 8.5, 9.0 |
C1 | Advanced | 7.0, 7.5, 8.0 |
B2 | Upper Intermediate | 6.0, 6.5 |
B1 | Intermediate | 4.5, 5.0, 5.5 |
A2 | Elementary | 3.5, 4.0 |
A1 | Beginner | 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 |
N/A | Non-user | 1.0, 1.5 |
N/A | Did not attempt test | 0.0, 0.5 |
What is the CEFR?
Introduced by the Council of Europe, the CEFR provides a comprehensive international framework for describing language proficiency. It stands for the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.
The CEFR offers a standardized system for describing language abilities, helping educators create consistent language curricula and assessments internationally.
CEFR levels range from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient), categorized into three broad bands:
- Basic User: A1, A2
- Independent User: B1, B2
- Proficient User: C1, C2
Each level is described through “can-do” statements, outlining the speaker’s English abilities:
- A1: Understand and use simple expressions, introduce oneself, and ask and answer basic questions.
- A2: Understand sentences related to immediate needs, communicate in simple tasks, and describe aspects of their background.
- B1: Deal with most situations while traveling, produce simple texts on familiar topics, and describe experiences and events.
- B2: Understand the main ideas of complex text, interact with native speakers with a degree of fluency, and produce clear, detailed text.
- C1: Understand a wide range of longer, more complex texts, express ideas fluently and spontaneously, and produce detailed text.
- C2: Understand with ease almost everything heard or read, summarize information from different sources, and express oneself spontaneously.
What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System – or IELTS – is an internationally recognized English proficiency test. The IELTS test assesses the learner’s English listening, reading, writing, and speaking ability in academic, professional, and social contexts.
IELTS scores range from 0 to 9, with each representing a specific level of English proficiency:
- 9: Expert
- 8: Very Good
- 7: Good
- 6: Competent
- 5: Modest
- 4: Limited
- 3: Extremely Limited
- 2: Intermittent
- 1: Non-user
- 0: Did not attempt
Each band score reflects the speaker’s ability to handle different aspects of the language, from basic communication to complex and detailed reasoning.
Understanding CEFR to IELTS Conversion: Why It Matters
Understanding how to convert your CEFR level into IELTS scores can help you meet specific requirements for various purposes.
Many countries require proof of English proficiency for visa applications, with specific IELTS scores needed for countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Whether you’re applying for a student visa, work visa, citizenship, or residency, English proficiency is often listed as a requirement.
Knowing your CEFR level helps you understand your IELTS score and whether or not you qualify. Additionally, different visas have varying language requirements, so understanding the CEFR to IELTS conversion can help guide your study efforts to help you confidently achieve your academic, professional, or personal objectives.
