CEFR and IELTS Levels: Conversion and Band Descriptors

CEFR and IELTS Levels: Conversion and Band Descriptors

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Shahid Mustaq Murshed Study Abroad Content Specialist

Study Abroad Content Specialist | Updated On - May 14, 2025

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a globally accepted standard used to assess and describe language proficiency across listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Divided into six levels—A1 to C2—the CEFR framework helps institutions, employers, and educators understand a learner’s capability in real-world communication. It's widely used across Europe and beyond, particularly in university admissions, visa applications, and language certifications.

For students taking standardized English tests like the IELTS, understanding how CEFR levels align with IELTS band scores is essential. For instance, a C1 level typically corresponds to an IELTS band score between 7.0 and 8.0, which is the minimum requirement for most top-ranked universities in Europe.

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Know More: Study Abroad Exams 


Understand the Common European Framework of Reference 

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a global standard for assessing language proficiency across listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. It is divided into six levels:

  • A1 (Beginner): Basic everyday communication
  • A2 (Elementary): Simple tasks and conversations
  • B1 (Intermediate): Routine interactions and opinion sharing
  • B2 (Upper Intermediate): Complex discussions and workplace communication
  • C1 (Advanced): Fluent in academic and professional contexts
  • C2 (Proficient): Near-native fluency

CEFR is widely used in language learning, university admissions, and certifications. Exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and DELF align their scores with CEFR to ensure standardized proficiency levels.

Read More: What Are CEFR Levels?


CEFR to IELTS Conversion

CEFR levels measure different language proficiency test scores across the world. Many European Universities publish their score requirements in CEFR levels. You must understand CEFR level in IELTS meaning before you complete your registration. Check the table below to understand CEFR level IELTS meaning:

CEFR Level

IELTS Band Score Equivalent

A1 (Beginner)

1.0 - 2.5

A2 (Elementary)

3.0 - 3.5

B1 (Intermediate)

4.0 - 5.0

B2 (Upper-Intermediate)

5.5 - 6.5

C1 (Advanced)

7.0 - 8.0

C2 (Proficient)

8.5 - 9.0


CEFR Levels Descriptors

Each CEFR level carries a different proficiency level, that helps organizations to understand your language skills. Most of the top-ranked European universities require IELTS CEFR C1 level for their admission process. Check the different types of CEFR levels and understand what they describe:

  • CEFR Level C2: CEFR level C2 is the highest proficiency level and is allocated to a proficient user who can understand and summarize any data. C2-level users can clearly express themselves in challenging situations.
  • CEFR Level C1: CEFR C2 level users can easily understand any complex message or conversions. They can easily describe difficult situations in social, professional, or formal situations.
  • CEFR Level B2: This level is directed to an independent user who can easily formulate documents on various themes. They can understand major concepts and complicated texts. CEFR B2 level users can talk naturally with native speakers.
  • CEFR Level B1: CEFR B1 level users can easily understand and talk about general concepts like friends, family, and work activities. They are proficient in handling travel requirements and can write brief paragraphs describing their interests.
  • CEFR Level A2 and A1: CEFR levels A2 and A1 are described as basic users, who can handle day-to-day situations like work, shopping, traveling, etc. They are proficient in talking about common everyday topics. The A1 and A2 CEFR level IELTS meaning describes that the candidate has achieved a score between 0 and 4 IELTS bands.

Also Read: Student Visas to Study Abroad


How to Improve Your IELTS Score and CEFR Level?

To improve your IELTS score to reach higher in CEFR levels, you must know your current level. Start with a mock IELTS test to identify your CEFR level and pinpoint strengths and weaknesses in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

From A2 to B1/B2:

  • Expand Vocabulary: Read newspapers, short stories, and blogs.
  • Practice Speaking: Use apps or talk with fluent speakers.
  • Grammar Practice: Focus on sentence structure and tenses.
  • Join IELTS Prep Classes: Follow a guided plan.

From B2 to C1/C2:

  • Read Complex Texts: Dive into articles, essays, and journals.
  • Write Academic Essays: Practice structured writing tasks.
  • Improve Listening: Watch debates, news, and podcasts.
  • Refine Fluency: Focus on natural speech and pronunciation.

Also Read: IELTS Preparation Tips


CEFR scale is like a framework that defines your learning abilities at different levels. CEFR to IELTS score conversion helps organizations and universities understand applicants' proficiency levels. You can check CEFR and IELTS score conversions in detail from the IDP or British Council’s official websites.


FAQs

Ques: Is IELTS 6.5 B2 or C1?

Ans: IELTS band score of 6.5 is compared to the B2 level, and considered an independent user. You can easily get admission to some of the best universities with a B2 level.

Ques: Is IELTS 8 C1 or C2?

Ans: IELTS band score 8 is compared to CEFR C1 level and describes you as a proficient user. You can compare your IELTS score to CEFR levels by visiting any official IELTS website.

Ques: What is the CEFR level B2 to IELTS?

Ans: CEFR level B2 describes an independent user proficiency, and the compared IELTS score ranges between 5.5 to 6.5 bands. You can get admission to some of the best European universities by achieving a CEFR B2 level.

Ques: How do I check my CEFR level?

Ans: The best way to check your CEFR level is by taking a language proficiency test. After receiving your language proficiency test score, you can check your CEFR level by visiting the official website.

Ques: Is CEFR level C1 good?

Ans: CEFR level C1 is equivalent to IELTS 7 to 8 bands, and acceptable by all top-ranked universities and programs. You can check the university's IELTS score and CEFR requirements by visiting their official websites.

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