levels

French language proficiency levels – find your CEFR level

What are the CEFR levels?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the international standard for describing language ability in Europe. It helps learners and teachers assess proficiency across six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). Understanding your level ensures you join the right course for your skills and goals.

Want to understand the full CEFR framework and its detailed level descriptions? Visit the Council of Europe’s official guide for an authoritative breakdown.

Find your level – CEFR descriptions

Basic user

A1 – Breakthrough

Able to comprehend and use common daily expressions and simple phrases designed to meet basic practical needs.

Capable of introducing oneself and others, as well as asking and responding to straightforward questions about personal information such as their address, acquaintances, and possessions.

Can engage in basic interactions as long as the other person speaks slowly, clearly, and is willing to provide assistance.

Beginner

A2 – Waystage

Able to understand common sentences and expressions frequently used in everyday situations, such as basic personal and family details, shopping, local landmarks, and work-related topics.

Can participate in straightforward and routine interactions that involve the direct exchange of information on familiar topics and everyday activities.

Capable of describing simple aspects of their background, surroundings, and immediate needs in basic terms.

Elementary

Independent user

B1 – Threshold

Able to grasp the main ideas of clear, standard communication on familiar topics often encountered in work, school, or leisure activities.

Can manage most situations likely to occur while traveling in regions where the language is spoken.

Capable of creating simple, connected text about topics of personal interest or familiarity.

Able to describe experiences, events, aspirations, and plans, and can provide brief reasons or explanations for opinions and decisions.

intermediate

B2 – Vantage

Able to comprehend the main concepts of complex texts, whether they address concrete or abstract topics, including technical discussions in their area of expertise.

Can engage in conversations with fluency and spontaneity, enabling regular interaction with native speakers without causing discomfort for either side.

Capable of producing clear and detailed written content on a variety of subjects and expressing a perspective on current issues, outlining the pros and cons of different options.

upper interm

Proficient user

C1 – Effective Operational Proficiency

Able to comprehend a broad range of challenging, extended texts and identify underlying meanings.

Can communicate fluently and effortlessly, with little need to search for expressions.

Capable of using language flexibly and efficiently in social, academic, and professional contexts.

Able to produce clear, well-organized, and detailed writing on complex topics, demonstrating effective use of structure, connectors, and cohesive elements.

Advanced

C2 – Mastery

Able to effortlessly understand nearly everything that is heard or read.

Can summarize information from various spoken and written sources, skillfully reorganizing arguments and narratives into a cohesive and coherent format.

Capable of expressing thoughts spontaneously, with exceptional fluency and accuracy, even distinguishing subtle nuances of meaning in complex scenarios.

Proficiency

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