Pre-A1

Can produce short phrases about themselves, giving basic personal information (e.g. name, address, family, nationality).

A1

Can produce simple, mainly isolated phrases about people and places.

A2

Can give a simple description or presentation of people, living or working conditions, daily routines. likes/dislikes, etc. as a short series of simple phrases and sentences linked into a list.

B1

Can reasonably fluently sustain a straightforward description of one of a variety of subjects within their field of interest, presenting it as a linear sequence of points.

B2

Can give clear, detailed descriptions and presentations on a wide range of subjects related to their field of interest, expanding and supporting ideas with subsidiary points and relevant examples.

B2+

Can give clear, systematically developed descriptions and presentations, with appropriate highlighting of significant points, and relevant supporting detail.

C1

Can give clear, detailed descriptions and presentations on complex subjects, integrating sub-themes, developing particular points and rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.

C2

Can produce clear, smoothly flowing, well-structured discourse with an effective logical structure which helps the recipient to notice and remember significant points.

Pre-A1

Can express how they are feeling using simple adjectives like “happy” or “tired”, accompanied by body language.

Can describe themselves (e.g. name, age, family), using simple words/signs and formulaic expressions, provided they can prepare in advance.

A1

Can describe simple aspects of their everyday life in a series of simple sentences, using simple words/signs and basic phrases, provided they can prepare in advance.

Can describe themselves, what they do and where they live.

A2

Can briefly describe what they plan to do at the weekend or during the holidays.

Can express what they are good at and not so good at (e.g. sports, games, skills, subjects).

Can describe people, places and possessions in simple terms.

Can describe their family, living conditions, educational background, present or most recent job.

A2+

Can explain what they like or dislike about something.

Can use simple descriptive language to make brief statements about and compare objects and possessions.

Can describe plans and arrangements, habits and routines, past activities and personal experiences.

Can give short, basic descriptions of events and activities.

Can describe everyday aspects of their environment e.g. people, places, a job or study experience.

Can tell a story or describe something in a simple list of points.

B1

Can narrate a story.

Can describe events, real or imagined.

Can describe dreams, hopes and ambitions.

Can relate the plot of a book or film and describe their reactions.

Can relate details of unpredictable occurrences, e.g. an accident.

Can give detailed accounts of experiences, describing feelings and reactions.

Can reasonably fluently relate a straightforward narrative or description as a sequence of points.

Can give straightforward descriptions on a variety of familiar subjects within their field of interest.

B1+

Can clearly express feelings about something experienced and give reasons to explain those feelings.

B2

Can describe the personal significance of events and experiences in detail.

Can give clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to their field of interest.

C1

Can give elaborate descriptions and narratives, integrating sub-themes, developing particular points and rounding them off with an appropriate conclusion.

Can give clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects.

C2

Can give clear, smoothly flowing, elaborate and often memorable descriptions.

A1

Can name an object and indicate its shape and colour while showing it to others using basic words/signs, phrases and formulaic expressions, provided they can prepare in advance.

A2

Can give simple directions on how to get from X to Y, using basic expressions such as “turn right” and “go straight” along with sequential connectors such as “first”, “then” and “next”.

B1

Can report straightforward factual information on a familiar topic, for example to indicate the nature of a problem or to give detailed directions, provided they can prepare beforehand.

B1+

Can describe how to do something, giving detailed instructions.

Can explain the main points in an idea or problem with reasonable precision.

B2

Can give a clear, detailed description of how to carry out a procedure.

Can communicate detailed information reliably.

B2+

Can communicate complex information and advice on the full range of matters related to their occupational role.

C1

Can give instructions on carrying out a series of complex professional or academic procedures.

Can communicate clearly detailed distinctions between ideas, concepts and things that closely resemble one other.

A2

Can present their opinion in simple terms, provided interlocutors are patient.

A2+

Can explain what they like or dislike about something, why they prefer one thing to another, making simple, direct comparisons.

B1

Can explain whether or not they approve of what someone has done and give reasons to justify this opinion.

Can briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions, plans and actions.

Can express opinions on subjects relating to everyday life, using simple expressions.

B1+

Can give simple reasons to justify a viewpoint on a familiar topic.

Can develop an argument well enough to be followed without difficulty most of the time.

B2

Can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Can construct a chain of reasoned argument.

Can develop a clear argument, expanding and supporting their points of view at some length with subsidiary points and relevant examples.

B2+

Can develop an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of significant points, and relevant supporting detail.

C1

Can develop an argument systematically in well-structured language, taking into account the interlocutor’s perspective, highlighting significant points with supporting examples and concluding appropriately.

Can argue a case on a complex issue, formulating points precisely and employing emphasis effectively.

A2

Can deliver very short, rehearsed announcements of predictable, learnt content which are intelligible to recipients who are prepared to concentrate.

B1

Can deliver short, rehearsed announcements on a topic pertinent to everyday occurrences in their field which, despite possible problems with stress and intonation (= non-manuals in a sign language), are nevertheless clearly intelligible.

B2

Can deliver announcements on most general topics with a degree of clarity, fluency and spontaneity which causes no strain or inconvenience to the recipient.

C1

Can deliver announcements fluently, almost effortlessly, using stress and intonation to convey finer shades of meaning precisely.

A1

Can use a very short prepared text to deliver a rehearsed statement (e.g. to formally introduce someone, to propose a toast).

A2

Can answer straightforward follow-up questions if they can ask for repetition and if some help with the formulation of their reply is possible.

Can give a short, rehearsed, basic presentation on a familiar subject.

A2+

Can cope with a limited number of straightforward follow-up questions.

Can give a short, rehearsed presentation on a topic pertinent to their everyday life, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions, plans and actions.

B1

Can take follow-up questions, but may have to ask for repetition if the delivery is rapid.

Can give a prepared straightforward presentation on a familiar topic within their field which is clear enough to be followed without difficulty most of the time, and in which the main points are explained with reasonable precision.

B1+

Can give a prepared presentation on a familiar topic within their field, outlining similarities and differences (e.g. between products, countries/regions, plans).

B2

Can take a series of follow-up questions with a degree of fluency and spontaneity which poses no strain for either themselves or the audience.

Can give a clear, prepared presentation, giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view and giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

B2+

Can depart spontaneously from a prepared text and follow up interesting points raised by members of the audience, often showing remarkable fluency and ease of expression.

Can give a clear, systematically developed presentation, with highlighting of significant points, and relevant supporting detail.

C1

Can handle interjections well, responding spontaneously and almost effortlessly.

Can speculate or hypothesise in presenting a complex subject, comparing and evaluating alternative proposals and arguments.

Can structure a longer presentation appropriately in order to help the audience follow the sequence of ideas and understand the overall argumentation.

Can give a clear, well-structured presentation on a complex subject, expanding and supporting points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples.

C2

Can handle difficult and even hostile questioning.

Can present a complex topic confidently and articulately to an audience unfamiliar with it, structuring and adapting the talk flexibly to meet the audience’s needs.

Pre-A1

Can ask and answer questions about themselves and daily routines, using short, formulaic expressions and relying on gestures to reinforce the information.

A1

Can interact in a simple way but communication is totally dependent on repetition at a slower rate, rephrasing and repair. Can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements in areas of immediate need or on very familiar topics.

A2

Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters to do with work and free time. Can handle very short social exchanges but is rarely able to understand enough to keep conversation going of their own accord.

A2+

Can interact with reasonable ease in structured situations and short conversations, provided the other person helps if necessary. Can manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort; can ask and answer questions and exchange ideas and information on familiar topics in predictable everyday situations.

B1

Can exploit a wide range of simple language to deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling. Can enter unprepared into conversation on familiar topics, and express personal opinions and exchange information on topics that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life (e.g. family, hobbies, work, travel and current events).

B1+

Can communicate with some confidence on familiar routine and non-routine matters related to their interests and professional field. Can exchange, check and confirm information, deal with less routine situations and explain why something is a problem. Can express thoughts on more abstract, cultural topics such as films, books, music, etc.

B2

Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction, and sustained relationships with users of the target language, quite possible without imposing strain on either party. Can highlight the personal significance of events and experiences, and account for and sustain views clearly by providing relevant explanations and arguments.

B2+

Can use the language fluently, accurately and effectively on a wide range of general, academic, vocational or leisure topics, marking clearly the relationships between ideas. Can communicate spontaneously with good grammatical control without much sign of having to restrict what they want to say, adopting a level of formality appropriate to the circumstances.

C1

Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Has a good command of a broad lexical repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions. There is little obvious searching for expressions or avoidance strategies; only a conceptually difficult subject can hinder a natural, smooth flow of language.

C2

Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of meaning. Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with reasonable accuracy, a wide range of modification devices. Can backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly that the interlocutor is hardly aware of it.

Pre-A1

Can understand a number of familiar words/signs and recognise key information (e.g. numbers, prices, dates and days of the week), provided the delivery is very slow, with repetition if necessary.

Can understand simple personal information (e.g. name, age, place of residence, origin) when other people introduce themselves slowly and clearly, directly to them, and can understand questions on this theme addressed to them, though the questions may need to be repeated.

Can understand simple questions that directly concern them (e.g. name, age and address), if the person is asking slowly and clearly.

A1

Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to them and follow short, simple directions.

Can understand everyday expressions aimed at the satisfaction of simple needs of a concrete type, delivered directly to them clearly and slowly, with repetition, by a sympathetic interlocutor.

A2

Can understand what is said clearly, slowly and directly to them in simple everyday conversation; can be made to understand, if the interlocutor can take the trouble.

A2+

Can generally understand clear, standard speech/sign on familiar matters directed at them, provided they can ask for repetition or reformulation from time to time.

Can understand enough to manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort.

B1

Can follow clearly articulated speech/sign directed at them in everyday conversation, though will sometimes have to ask for repetition of particular words/signs and phrases.

B2

Can understand in detail what is said to them in the standard language or a familiar variety even in a [audially/visually] noisy environment.

C1

Can understand an interlocutor in detail on abstract and complex topics of a specialist nature beyond their own field, though they may need to confirm occasional details, especially if the variety is unfamiliar.

C2

Can understand any interlocutor, even on abstract and complex topics of a specialist nature beyond their own field, given an opportunity to adjust to a less familiar variety.

Pre-A1

Can greet people, state their name and take leave in a simple way.

Can recognise simple greetings.

Can understand and use basic, formulaic expressions such as “Yes”, “No”, “Excuse me”, “Please”, “Thank you”, “No thank you”, “Sorry”.

A1

Can ask how people are and react to news.

Can make an introduction and use basic greeting and leave-taking expressions.

Can take part in a simple conversation of a basic factual nature on a predictable topic (e.g. their home country, family, school).

Can understand everyday expressions aimed at the satisfaction of simple needs of a concrete type, delivered directly to them in clear, slow and repeated language by a sympathetic interlocutor.

A2

Can state what they like and dislike.

Can express how they are feeling, using very basic stock expressions.

Can make and respond to invitations, suggestions and apologies.

Can converse in simple language with peers, colleagues or members of a host family, asking questions and understanding answers relating to most routine matters.

Can use simple, everyday, polite forms of greeting and address.

Can handle very short social exchanges but is rarely able to understand enough to keep conversation going of their own accord, though they can be made to understand if the interlocutor will take the trouble.

A2+

Can ask for a favour (e.g. to borrow something), can offer a favour, and can respond if someone asks them to do a favour for them.

Can express how they feel in simple terms, and express thanks.

Can participate in short conversations in routine contexts on topics of interest.

Can generally understand clear, standard language on familiar matters directed at them, provided they can ask for repetition or reformulation from time to time.

Can establish social contact (e.g. greetings and farewells, introductions, giving thanks).

B1

Can express and respond to feelings such as surprise, happiness, sadness, interest and indifference.

Can maintain a conversation or discussion but may sometimes be difficult to follow when trying to express exactly what they would like to.

Can follow clearly articulated language directed at them in everyday conversation, though will sometimes have to ask for repetition of particular words/signs.

Can enter unprepared into conversations on familiar topics.

B1+

Can have relatively long conversations on subjects of common interest, provided the interlocutor makes an effort to support understanding.

Can start up a conversation and help keep it going by asking people relatively spontaneous questions about a special experience or event, expressing reactions and opinions on familiar subjects.

B2

Can convey degrees of emotion and highlight the personal significance of events and experiences.

Can sustain relationships with users of the target language without unintentionally amusing or irritating them or requiring them to behave other than they would with another proficient language user.

Can engage in extended conversation on most general topics in a clearly participatory fashion, even in a [audially/visually] noisy environment.

B2+

Can indicate reservations and reluctance, state conditions when agreeing to requests or granting permission, and ask for understanding of their own position.

Can establish a relationship with interlocutors through sympathetic questioning and expressions of agreement plus, if appropriate, comments about third parties or shared conditions.

C1

Can use language flexibly and effectively for social purposes, including emotional, allusive and joking usage.

C2

Can converse comfortably and appropriately, unhampered by any linguistic limitations in conducting a full social and personal life.

A1

Can exchange likes and dislikes for sports, foods, etc., using a limited repertoire of expressions, when addressed clearly, slowly and directly.

A2

Can express opinions in a limited way.

Can discuss what to do, where to go and make arrangements to meet.

Can discuss everyday practical issues in a simple way when addressed clearly, slowly and directly.

A2+

Can agree and disagree with others.

Can make and respond to suggestions.

Can discuss what to do in the evening or at the weekend.

Can exchange opinions and compare things and people using simple language.

Can generally identify the topic of discussion around them when it is conducted slowly and clearly.

B1

Can express beliefs, opinions and agreement and disagreement politely.

Can make their opinions and reactions understood as regards solutions to problems or practical questions of where to go, what to do, or how to organise an event (e.g. an outing).

Can give or seek personal views and opinions in discussing topics of interest.

Can generally follow the main points in an informal discussion with friends provided they articulate clearly in standard language or a familiar variety.

B1+

Can compare and contrast alternatives, discussing what to do, where to go, who or which to choose, etc.

Can give brief comments on the views of others.

Can explain why something is a problem.

Can express their thoughts about abstract or cultural topics such as music or films.

Can follow much of what is said around them on general topics, provided interlocutors avoid very idiomatic usage and articulate clearly.

B2

Can account for and sustain their opinions in discussion by providing relevant explanations, arguments and comments.

Can with some effort catch much of what is said around them in discussion, but may find it difficult to participate effectively in discussion with several users of the target language who do not modify their language in any way.

Can take an active part in informal discussion in familiar contexts, commenting, putting a point of view clearly, evaluating alternative proposals and making and responding to hypotheses.

B2+

Can express their ideas and opinions with precision, and present and respond to complex lines of argument convincingly.

Can keep up with an animated discussion between proficient users of the target language.

C1

Can easily follow and contribute to complex interactions between third parties in group discussion even on abstract, complex unfamiliar topics.

C2

Can advise on or discuss sensitive issues without awkwardness, understanding colloquial references and dealing diplomatically with disagreement and criticism.

A2

Can express what they think about things when addressed directly in a formal meeting, provided they can ask for repetition of key points if necessary.

A2+

Can exchange relevant information and give their opinion on practical problems when asked directly, provided they receive some help with formulation and can ask for repetition of key points if necessary.

Can generally follow changes of topic in formal discussion related to their field which is conducted slowly and clearly.

B1

Can follow argumentation and discussion on a familiar or predictable topic, provided the points are made in relatively simple language and/or repeated, and opportunity is given for clarification.

Can take part in routine formal discussion of familiar subjects which is clearly articulated in the standard form of the language or a familiar variety and which involves the exchange of factual information, receiving instructions or the discussion of solutions to practical problems.

B1+

Can put over a point of view clearly, but has difficulty engaging in debate.

Can follow much of what is said that is related to their field, provided interlocutors avoid very idiomatic usage and articulate clearly.

B2

Can contribute, account for and sustain their opinion, evaluate alternative proposals and make and respond to hypotheses.

Can follow the discussion on matters related to their field, understand in detail the points given prominence.

Can participate actively in routine and non-routine formal discussion.

B2+

Can express their ideas and opinions with precision, and present and respond to complex lines of argument convincingly.

Can use appropriate technical terminology when discussing their area of specialisation with other specialists.

Can keep up with an animated discussion, identifying accurately arguments supporting and opposing points of view.

C1

Can follow up questions by probing for more detail and can reformulate questions if these are misunderstood.

Can make critical remarks or express disagreement diplomatically.

Can restate, evaluate and challenge contributions from other participants about matters within their academic or professional competence.

Can argue a formal position convincingly, responding to questions and comments and answering complex lines of counter-argument fluently, spontaneously and appropriately.

Can easily keep up with the debate, even on abstract, complex, unfamiliar topics.

C2

Can deal with hostile questioning confidently, hold on to the turn and diplomatically rebut counter-arguments.

Can advise on/handle complex, delicate or contentious issues, provided they have the necessary specialised knowledge.

Can hold their own in formal discussion of complex issues, putting an articulate and persuasive argument, at no disadvantage to other participants.

A1

Can ask people for things, and give people things.

Can act on basic instructions that involve times, locations, numbers, etc.

Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to them and follow short, simple directions.

A2

Can communicate in simple and routine tasks using simple phrases to ask for and provide things, to get simple information and to discuss what to do next.

Can indicate when they are following and can be made to understand what is necessary, if the interlocutor takes the trouble.

A2+

Can discuss what to do next, making and responding to suggestions, and asking for and giving directions.

Can understand enough to manage simple, routine tasks without undue effort, asking very simply for repetition when they do not understand.

B1

Can invite others to give their views on how to proceed.

Can make their opinions and reactions understood as regards possible solutions or the question of what to do next, giving brief reasons and explanations.

Can generally follow what is said and, when necessary, repeat back part of what someone has said to confirm mutual understanding.

B1+

Can give brief comments on the views of others.

Can explain why something is a problem, discuss what to do next, and compare and contrast alternatives.

Can follow what is said, though they may occasionally have to ask for repetition or clarification if the discussion is rapid or extended.

B2

Can outline an issue or a problem clearly, speculating about causes or consequences, and weighing advantages and disadvantages of different approaches.

Can help along the progress of the work by inviting others to join in, express what they think, etc.

Can understand detailed instructions reliably.

C1

Can frame a discussion to decide on a course of action with a partner or group, reporting on what others have said, and summarising, elaborating and weighing up multiple points of view.

Pre-A1

Can make simple purchases and/or order food or drink when pointing or other gesture can support the verbal reference.

A1

Can handle numbers, quantities, cost and time.

Can ask for food and drink using basic expressions.

Can ask people for things and give people things.

A2

Can ask (face-to-face) for a medical appointment and understand the reply. Can indicate the nature of a problem to a health professional, perhaps using gestures and body language.

Can point out when something is wrong (e.g. “The food is cold” or “There is no light in my room”).

Can order a meal.

Can make simple purchases by stating what is wanted and asking the price.

Can give and receive information about quantities, numbers, prices, etc.

Can ask about things and make simple transactions in shops, post offices or banks.

Can get simple information about travel, use public transport (e.g. buses, trains, taxis), ask and give directions, and buy tickets.

Can ask for and provide everyday goods and services.

A2+

Can get all the information needed from a tourist office, as long as it is of a straightforward, non-specialised nature.

Can interact in predictable everyday situations (e.g. post office, station, shop), using a wide range of simple expressions.

Can deal with common aspects of everyday living such as travel, lodging, eating and shopping.

B1

Can deal with most situations likely to arise when making travel arrangements through an agent or when actually travelling, e.g. asking a passenger where to get off for an unfamiliar destination.

Can make a complaint.

Can cope with less routine situations in shops, post offices, banks, e.g. returning an unsatisfactory purchase.

Can ask in a shop for an explanation of the difference between two or more products serving the same purpose, in order to make a decision, posing follow-up questions as necessary.

Can deal with most transactions likely to arise while travelling, arranging travel or accommodation, or dealing with authorities during a foreign visit.

B2

Can explain a problem which has arisen and make it clear that the provider of the service/customer must make a concession.

Can state requirements and ask detailed questions regarding more complex services, e.g. rental agreements.

Can understand detailed instructions reliably.

B2+

Can outline a case for compensation, using persuasive language to demand satisfaction and state clearly the limits to any concession they are prepared to make.

Can cope linguistically to negotiate a solution to a dispute like an undeserved traffic ticket, financial responsibility for damage in a flat, or blame regarding an accident.

C1

Can negotiate complex or sensitive transactions in public, professional or academic life.

Pre-A1

Can ask very simple questions for information, such as “What is this?” and understand one- or two-word/sign answers.

Can tell people their age and ask people about their age.

Can ask for and give a phone number.

Can ask for and give a date of birth.

Can ask and tell what day, time of day and date it is.

Can use and understand simple numbers in everyday conversations.

Can tell people their name and ask other people their names.

A1

Can name the colour of clothes or other familiar objects and can ask the colour of such objects.

Can express numbers, quantities and cost in a limited way.

Can indicate time by lexicalised phrases like “next week”, “last Friday”, “in November”, “three o’clock”.

Can ask and answer questions about themselves and other people, where they live, people they know, things they have.

Can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements in areas of immediate need or on very familiar topics.

Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to them and follow short, simple directions.

A2

Can ask and answer simple questions about an event (e.g. ask where and when it took place, who was there and what it was like).

Can ask for and provide personal information.

Can ask for and give directions referring to a map or plan.

Can ask and answer questions about what they do at work and in their free time.

Can exchange limited information on familiar and routine operational matters.

Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information.

A2+

Can give and follow simple directions and instructions, e.g. explain how to get somewhere.

Can ask and answer questions about plans and intentions.

Can ask and answer questions about pastimes and past activities.

Can ask and answer questions about habits and routines.

Can deal with practical everyday demands: finding out and passing on straightforward factual information.

Can understand enough to manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort.

B1

Can offer advice on simple matters within their field of experience.

Can obtain more detailed information.

Can ask for and follow detailed directions.

Can find out and pass on straightforward factual information.

Can deal with most transactions likely to arise while travelling, arranging travel or accommodation, or dealing with authorities during a foreign visit.

B1+

Can summarise and give their opinion about a short story, article, talk, discussion, interview or documentary and answer further questions of detail.

Can exchange, check and confirm accumulated factual information on familiar routine and non-routine matters within their field with some confidence.

B2

Can pass on detailed information reliably.

B2+

Can use appropriate technical terminology when exchanging information or discussing their area of specialisation with other specialists.

Can understand and exchange complex information and advice on the full range of matters related to their occupational role.

A1

Can state in simple language the nature of a problem to a health professional and answer simple questions such as “Does that hurt?” even though they have to rely on gestures and body language to reinforce the message.

Can reply in an interview to simple direct questions, put very slowly and clearly in direct, non-idiomatic language, about personal details.

A2

Can indicate in simple language the nature of a problem to a health professional, perhaps using gestures and body language.

Can answer simple questions and respond to simple statements in an interview.

A2+

Can describe to a doctor very basic symptoms and ailments such as a cold or the flu.

Can make themselves understood in an interview and communicate ideas and information on familiar topics, provided they can ask for clarification occasionally, and are given some help to express what they want to.

B1

Can use a prepared questionnaire to carry out a structured interview, with some spontaneous follow-up questions.

Can describe symptoms in a simple way and ask for advice when using health services, and can understand the answer, provided this is given clearly in everyday language.

Can take some initiative in an interview/consultation (e.g. to bring up a new subject) but is very dependent on the interviewer in the interaction.

B1+

Can carry out a prepared interview, checking and confirming information, though they may occasionally have to ask for repetition if the other person’s response is rapid or extended.

Can provide concrete information required in an interview/consultation (e.g. describe symptoms to a doctor), but with limited precision.

B2

Can take the initiative in an interview, and expand and develop ideas with little help or prodding from an interviewer.

B2+

Can carry out an effective, fluent interview, departing spontaneously from prepared questions, following up and probing interesting replies.

C1

Can participate fully in an interview, as either interviewer or interviewee, expanding and developing the point being discussed fluently without any support, and handling interjections well.

C2

Can keep up their side of the dialogue extremely well, structuring the discourse and interacting authoritatively with effortless fluency as interviewer or interviewee, at no disadvantage to other participants.

A2

Can understand a simple message (e.g. “My flight is late. I will arrive at ten o’clock.”), confirm details of the message and pass it on by phone to other people concerned.

Can, given repetition and clarifications, participate in a short, simple phone conversation with a known person on a predictable topic, e.g. arrival times, arrangements to meet.

A2+

Can use telecommunications with their friends to exchange simple news, make plans and arrange to meet.

B1

Can use telecommunications for routine messages (e.g. arrangements for a meeting) and to obtain basic services (e.g. book a hotel room or make a medical appointment).

Can use telecommunications to have relatively simple but extended conversations with people they know personally.

B1+

Can give important details over the (video)phone concerning an unexpected incident (e.g. a problem in a hotel, with travel arrangements, with a hire car).

Can use telecommunications for everyday personal or professional purposes, provided they can ask for clarification from time to time.

B2

Can participate in extended casual conversation over the phone with a known person on a variety of topics.

Can use telecommunications for a variety of personal and professional purposes, provided they can ask for clarification if the accent or terminology is unfamiliar.

C1

Can use telecommunications effectively for most professional or personal purposes.

C2

Can use telecommunications confidently and effectively for both personal and professional purposes, even if there is some interference (noise) or the caller has a less familiar accent.

Pre-A1

Can recognise numbers, prices, dates and days of the week, provided they are delivered slowly and clearly in a defined, familiar everyday context.

Can recognise everyday, familiar words/signs, provided they are delivered clearly and slowly in a clearly defined, familiar everyday context.

Can understand short, very simple questions and statements, provided they are delivered slowly and clearly and accompanied by visuals or manual gestures to support understanding and repeated if necessary.

A1

Can recognise concrete information (e.g. places and times) on familiar topics encountered in everyday life, provided it is delivered slowly and clearly.

Can follow language which is very slow and carefully articulated, with long pauses for them to assimilate meaning.

A2

Can understand phrases and expressions related to areas of most immediate priority (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment), provided people articulate clearly and slowly.

A2+

Can understand enough to be able to meet needs of a concrete type, provided people articulate clearly and slowly.

B1

Can understand the main points made in clear standard language or a familiar variety on familiar matters regularly encountered at work, school, leisure, etc., including short narratives.

B1+

Can understand straightforward factual information about common everyday or job-related topics, identifying both general messages and specific details, provided people articulate clearly in a generally familiar variety.

B2

Can follow extended discourse and complex lines of argument, provided the topic is reasonably familiar, and the direction of the argument is signposted by explicit markers.

Can understand the main ideas of propositionally and linguistically complex discourse on both concrete and abstract topics delivered in standard language or a familiar variety, including technical discussions in their field of specialisation.

B2+

Can understand standard language or a familiar variety, live or broadcast, on both familiar and unfamiliar topics normally encountered in personal, social, academic or vocational life. Only extreme [auditory/visual] background noise, inadequate discourse structure and/or idiomatic usage influence the ability to understand.

C1

Can follow extended discourse even when it is not clearly structured and when relationships are only implied and not signalled explicitly.

Can recognise a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts.

Can understand enough to follow extended discourse on abstract and complex topics beyond their own field, though they may need to confirm occasional details, especially if the variety is unfamiliar.

C2

Can understand with ease virtually any kind of language, whether live or broadcast, delivered at fast natural speed.

A1

Can understand in outline very simple information being explained in a predictable situation like a guided tour, provided the delivery is very slow and clear and that there are long pauses from time to time.

A2

Can understand the outline of simple information given in a predictable situation, such as on a guided tour (e.g. “This is where the President lives”).

Can follow a very simple, well-structured presentation or demonstration, provided it is illustrated with slides, concrete examples or diagrams, it is delivered slowly and clearly with repetition, and the topic is familiar.

A2+

Can follow the general outline of a demonstration or presentation on a familiar or predictable topic, where the message is expressed slowly and clearly in simple language and there is visual support (e.g. slides, handouts).

B1

Can understand the main points of what is said in a straightforward monologue (e.g. a guided tour), provided the delivery is clear and relatively slow.

Can follow a straightforward conference presentation or demonstration with visual support (e.g. slides, handouts) on a topic or product within their field, understanding explanations given.

Can follow in outline straightforward short talks on familiar topics, provided these are delivered in clearly articulated standard language or a familiar variety.

B1+

Can distinguish between main ideas and supporting details in standard lectures on familiar subjects, provided these are delivered in clearly articulated standard language or a familiar variety.

Can follow a lecture or talk within their own field, provided the subject matter is familiar and the presentation straightforward and clearly structured.

B2

Can recognise the point of view expressed and distinguish this from facts being reporting.

Can distinguish main themes from asides, provided the lecture or talk is delivered in standard language or a familiar variety.

Can follow complex lines of argument in a clearly articulated lecture, provided the topic is reasonably familiar.

B2+

Can understand the point of view expressed on topics that are of current interest or that relate to their specialised field, provided the talk is delivered in standard language or a familiar variety.

Can follow the essentials of lectures, talks and reports and other forms of academic/professional presentation which are propositionally and linguistically complex.

C1

Can follow most lectures, discussions and debates with relative ease.

C2

Can get the point of jokes or allusions in a presentation.

Can make appropriate inferences when links or implications are not made explicit.

Can follow specialised lectures and presentations employing colloquialism, regional usage or unfamiliar terminology.

Pre-A1

Can understand short, simple instructions for actions such as “Stop”, “Close the door”, etc., provided they are delivered slowly face-to-face, accompanied by pictures or manual gestures and repeated if necessary.

A1

Can understand figures, prices and times given slowly and clearly in an announcement by loudspeaker, e.g. at a railway station or in a shop.

Can understand when someone tells them slowly and clearly where something is, provided the object is in the immediate environment.

Can understand instructions addressed carefully and slowly to them and follow short, simple directions.

A2

Can understand basic instructions on times, dates and numbers, etc., and on routine tasks and assignments to be carried out.

Can understand simple directions on how to get from X to Y, by foot or public transport.

Can catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements.

A2+

Can understand straightforward announcements (e.g. of a cinema programme or sports event, that a train has been delayed), provided the delivery is slow and clear.

Can understand and follow a series of instructions for familiar everyday activities such as sports, cooking, etc., provided they are delivered slowly and clearly.

B1

Can understand public announcements at airports, stations and on planes, buses and trains, provided these are clearly articulated with minimum interference from [auditory/visual] background noise.

Can follow detailed directions.

Can understand simple technical information, such as operating instructions for everyday equipment.

B2

Can understand detailed instructions well enough to be able to follow them successfully.

Can understand announcements and messages on concrete and abstract topics delivered in standard language or a familiar variety at normal speed.

C1

Can understand complex technical information, such as operating instructions or specifications for familiar products and services.

Can extract specific information from poor quality, [audibly and/or visually] distorted public announcements, e.g. in a station or sports stadium, or on an old recording.

Pre-A1

Can recognise words/signs, names and numbers that they already know in simple, short recordings, provided these are delivered very slowly and clearly.

A1

Can pick out concrete information (e.g. places and times) from short recordings on familiar everyday topics, provided they are delivered very slowly and clearly.

A2

Can understand the important points of a story and manage to follow the plot, provided the story is told slowly and clearly.

Can extract important information from short broadcasts (e.g. the weather forecast, concert announcements, sports results), provided people talk clearly.

Can understand and extract the essential information from short, recorded passages dealing with predictable everyday matters which are delivered slowly and clearly.

A2+

Can understand in an interview what people say they do in their free time, what they particularly like doing and what they do not like doing, provided they speak slowly and clearly.

Can understand the most important information contained in short commercials concerning goods and services of interest (e.g. CDs, video games, travel).

B1

Can understand the main points and important details in stories and other narratives (e.g. a description of a holiday), provided the delivery is slow and clear.

Can understand the main points of news bulletins and simpler recorded material about familiar subjects delivered relatively slowly and clearly.

B1+

Can understand the information content of the majority of recorded or broadcast material on topics of personal interest delivered in clear standard language.

B2

Can understand most documentaries and most other recorded or broadcast material delivered in the standard form of the language and can identify mood, attitude, etc.

B2+

Can understand recordings in the standard form of the language likely to be encountered in social, professional or academic life and identify viewpoints and attitudes as well as the information content.

C1

Can understand a wide range of recorded and broadcast material, including some non-standard usage, and identify finer points of detail including implicit attitudes and relationships between people.

Pre-A1

Can use isolated words and basic expressions in order to give simple information about themselves.

A1

Can use some basic structures in one-clause sentences with some omission or reduction of elements.

Has a very basic range of simple expressions about personal details and needs of a concrete type.

A2

Has a limited repertoire of short, memorised phrases covering predictable survival situations; frequent breakdowns and misunderstandings occur in non-routine situations.

Can use basic sentence patterns and communicate with memorised phrases, groups of a few words/signs and formulae about themselves and other people, what they do, places, possessions, etc.

Can produce brief, everyday expressions in order to satisfy simple needs of a concrete type (e.g. personal details, daily routines, wants and needs, requests for information).

A2+

Has a repertoire of basic language which enables them to deal with everyday situations with predictable content, though they will generally have to compromise the message and search for words/signs.

B1

Has enough language to get by, with sufficient vocabulary to express themselves with some hesitation and circumlocutions on topics such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel and current events, but lexical limitations cause repetition and even difficulty with formulation at times.

B1+

Has a sufficient range of language to describe unpredictable situations, explain the main points in an idea or problem with reasonable precision and express thoughts on abstract or cultural topics such as music and film.

B2

Has a sufficient range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints and develop arguments without much conspicuous searching for words/signs, using some complex sentence forms to do so.

B2+

Can express themselves clearly without much sign of having to restrict what they want to say.

C1

Can select an appropriate formulation from a broad range of language to express themselves clearly, without having to restrict what they want to say.

Can use a broad range of complex grammatical structures appropriately and with considerable flexibility.

C2

Can exploit a comprehensive and reliable mastery of a very wide range of language to formulate thoughts precisely, give emphasis, differentiate and eliminate ambiguity. No signs of having to restrict what they want to say.

A1

Has a basic vocabulary repertoire of words/signs and phrases related to particular concrete situations.

A2

Has sufficient vocabulary for coping with simple survival needs.

Has sufficient vocabulary for the expression of basic communicative needs.

A2+

Has sufficient vocabulary to conduct routine everyday transactions involving familiar situations and topics.

B1

Has sufficient vocabulary to express themselves with some circumlocutions on most topics pertinent to their everyday life such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel and current events.

Has a good range of vocabulary related to familiar topics and everyday situations.

B2

Can understand and use much of the specialist vocabulary of their field but has problems with specialist terminology outside it.

Can produce appropriate collocations of many words/signs in most contexts fairly systematically.

Can vary formulation to avoid frequent repetition, but lexical gaps can still cause hesitation and circumlocution.

Has a good range of vocabulary for matters connected to their field and most general topics.

B2+

Can understand and use the main technical terminology of their field, when discussing their area of specialisation with other specialists.

C1

Can understand and use appropriately the range of technical vocabulary and idiomatic expressions common to their area of specialisation.

Has a good command of common idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms; can play with words/signs fairly well.

Can select from several vocabulary options in almost all situations by exploiting synonyms of even words/signs less commonly encountered.

Has a good command of a broad lexical repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions; little obvious searching for expressions or avoidance strategies.

C2

Has a good command of a very broad lexical repertoire including idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms; shows awareness of connotative levels of meaning.

Pre-A1

Can employ very simple principles of word/sign order in short statements.

A1

Shows only limited control of a few simple grammatical structures and sentence patterns in a learnt repertoire.

A2

Uses some simple structures correctly, but still systematically makes basic mistakes; nevertheless, it is usually clear what they are trying to say.

B1

Uses reasonably accurately a repertoire of frequently used “routines” and patterns associated with more predictable situations.

B1+

Communicates with reasonable accuracy in familiar contexts; generally good control, though with noticeable mother-tongue influence. Errors occur, but it is clear what they are trying to express.

B2

Has a good command of simple language structures and some complex grammatical forms, although they tend to use complex structures rigidly with some inaccuracy.

Shows a relatively high degree of grammatical control. Does not make mistakes which lead to misunderstanding.

B2+

Good grammatical control; occasional “slips” or non-systematic errors and minor flaws in sentence structure may still occur, but they are rare and can often be corrected in retrospect.

C1

Consistently maintains a high degree of grammatical accuracy; errors are rare and difficult to spot.

C2

Maintains consistent grammatical control of complex language, even while attention is otherwise engaged (e.g. in forward planning, in monitoring others’ reactions).

A2

Can control a narrow repertoire dealing with concrete, everyday needs.

B1

Uses a wide range of simple vocabulary appropriately when discussing familiar topics.

Shows good control of elementary vocabulary but major errors still occur when expressing more complex thoughts or handling unfamiliar topics and situations.

B2

Lexical accuracy is generally high, though some confusion and incorrect word/sign choice does occur without hindering communication.

C1

Occasional minor slips, but no significant vocabulary errors.

Uses less common vocabulary idiomatically and appropriately.

C2

Consistently correct and appropriate use of vocabulary.

A1

Pronunciation of a very limited repertoire of learnt words and phrases can be understood with some effort by interlocutors used to dealing with speakers of the language group. Can reproduce correctly a limited range of sounds as well as stress for simple, familiar words and phrases.

A2

Pronunciation is generally clear enough to be understood, but conversational partners will need to ask for repetition from time to time. A strong influence from the other language(s) they speak on stress, rhythm and intonation may affect intelligibility, requiring collaboration from interlocutors. Nevertheless, pronunciation of familiar words is clear.

B1

Pronunciation is generally intelligible; intonation and stress at both utterance and word levels do not prevent understanding of the message. Accent is usually influenced by the other language(s) they speak.

B2

Can generally use appropriate intonation, place stress correctly and articulate individual sounds clearly; accent tends to be influenced by the other language(s) they speak, but has little or no effect on intelligibility.

C1

Can employ the full range of phonological features in the target language with sufficient control to ensure intelligibility throughout. Can articulate virtually all the sounds of the target language; some features of accent(s) retained from other language(s) may be noticeable, but they do not affect intelligibility.

C2

Can employ the full range of phonological features in the target language with a high level of control – including prosodic features such as word and sentence stress, rhythm and intonation – so that the finer points of their message are clear and precise. Intelligibility and effective conveyance and enhancement of meaning are not affected in any way by features of accent that may be retained from other language(s).

A1

Can articulate a limited number of sounds, so that speech is only intelligible if the interlocutor provides support (e.g. by repeating correctly and by eliciting repetition of new sounds).

Can reproduce sounds in the target language if carefully guided.

A2

Systematic mispronunciation of phonemes does not hinder intelligibility, provided the interlocutor makes an effort to recognise and adjust to the influence of the speaker’s language background on pronunciation.

Pronunciation is generally intelligible when communicating in simple everyday situations, provided the interlocutor makes an effort to understand specific sounds.

B1

Is generally intelligible throughout, despite regular mispronunciation of individual sounds and words they are less familiar with.

B2

Can generalise from their repertoire to predict the phonological features of most unfamiliar words (e.g. word stress) with reasonable accuracy (e.g. while reading).

Can articulate a high proportion of the sounds in the target language clearly in extended stretches of production; is intelligible throughout, despite a few systematic mispronunciations.

C1

Can articulate virtually all the sounds of the target language with a high degree of control. They can usually self-correct if they noticeably mispronounce a sound.

C2

Can articulate virtually all the sounds of the target language with clarity and precision.

A1

Can use the prosodic features of a limited repertoire of simple words and phrases intelligibly, in spite of a very strong influence on stress, rhythm and/or intonation from the other language(s) they speak; their interlocutor needs to be collaborative.

A2

Prosodic features (e.g. word stress) are adequate for familiar everyday words and simple utterances.

Can use the prosodic features of everyday words and phrases intelligibly, in spite of a strong influence on stress, intonation and/or rhythm from the other language(s) they speak.

B1

Can convey their message in an intelligible way in spite of a strong influence on stress, intonation and/or rhythm from the other language(s) they speak.

B2

Can employ prosodic features (e.g. stress, intonation, rhythm) to support the message they intend to convey, though with some influence from the other languages they speak.

C1

Can vary intonation and place stress correctly in order to express precisely what they mean to say.

Can produce smooth, intelligible spoken discourse with only occasional lapses in control of stress, rhythm and/or intonation, which do not affect intelligibility or effectiveness.

C2

Can exploit prosodic features (e.g. stress, rhythm and intonation) appropriately and effectively in order to convey finer shades of meaning (e.g. to differentiate and emphasise).

A2

Can expand learnt phrases through simple recombinations of their elements.

Can adapt well-rehearsed, memorised, simple phrases to particular circumstances through limited lexical substitution.

B1

Can exploit a wide range of simple language flexibly to express much of what they want.

Can adapt their expression to deal with less routine, even difficult, situations.

B2

Can reformulate an idea to emphasise or explain a point.

Can vary formulation of what they want to say.

Can adjust to the changes of direction, style and emphasis normally found in conversation.

B2+

Can adjust what they say and the means of expressing it to the situation and the recipient and adopt a level of formality appropriate to the circumstances.

C1

Can modify their expression to express degrees of commitment or hesitation, confidence or uncertainty.

Can make a positive impact on an intended audience by effectively varying style of expression and sentence length, use of advanced vocabulary and word order.

C2

Shows great flexibility in reformulating ideas in differing linguistic forms to give emphasis, differentiate according to the situation, interlocutor, etc. and to eliminate ambiguity.

Pre-A1

Can communicate very basic information about personal details in a simple way.

A1

Can communicate basic information about personal details and needs of a concrete type in a simple way.

A2

Can communicate what they want to say in a simple and direct exchange of limited information on familiar and routine matters, but in other situations they generally have to compromise the message.

B1

Can express the main point they want to make comprehensibly.

Can convey simple, straightforward information of immediate relevance, getting across the point they feel is most important.

B1+

Can explain the main points in an idea or problem with reasonable precision.

B2

Can communicate the essential points even in more demanding situations, though their language lacks expressive power and idiomaticity.

Can pass on detailed information reliably.

C1

Can make effective use of linguistic modality to signal the strength of a claim, an argument or a position.

Can qualify opinions and statements precisely in relation to degrees of, for example, certainty/uncertainty, belief/doubt, likelihood, etc.

C2

Can give emphasis, differentiate and eliminate ambiguity.

Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with reasonable accuracy, a wide range of qualifying devices (e.g. adverbs expressing degree, clauses expressing limitations).

Pre-A1

Can manage very short, isolated, rehearsed utterances using gesture and signalled requests for help when necessary.

A1

Can manage very short, isolated, mainly pre-packaged utterances, with much pausing to search for expressions, to articulate less familiar words/signs, and to repair communication.

A2

Can construct phrases on familiar topics with sufficient ease to handle short exchanges, despite very noticeable hesitation and false starts.

A2+

Can make themselves understood in short contributions, even though pauses, false starts and reformulation are very evident.

B1

Can keep going comprehensibly, even though pausing for grammatical and lexical planning and repair is very evident, especially in longer stretches of free production.

B1+

Can express themselves with relative ease. Despite some problems with formulation resulting in pauses and “cul-de-sacs”, they are able to keep going effectively without help.

B2

Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with users of the target language quite possible without imposing strain on either party.

Can produce stretches of language with a fairly even tempo; although they can be hesitant as they search for patterns and expressions, there are few noticeably long pauses.

B2+

Can communicate spontaneously, often showing remarkable fluency and ease of expression in even longer complex stretches of language.

C1

Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Only a conceptually difficult subject can hinder a natural, smooth flow of language.

C2

Can express themselves at length with a natural, effortless, unhesitating flow. Pauses only to reflect on precisely the right means to express their thoughts or to find an appropriate example or explanation.