The Commodify European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is used to describe how well you can use the English language. The grid below shows what you should be able to do in English at each level at Imagine English Language Academy.

Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Levels for English:

A1 – Beginner: At this level, learners can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at meeting concrete needs. They can introduce themselves and others, ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have. Interaction is possible in a simple manner if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

A2 – Elementary: Learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). They can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. They can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment, and matters in areas of immediate need.

B1 – Intermediate: At this stage, individuals can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. They can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

B2 – Upper Intermediate: Learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. They can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

C1 – Advanced: At this level, learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. They can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices.

C2 – Proficient: Learners have a mastery of the language. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. They can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.