Steps to Perfection - Six levels of English proficiency from A1 to C2.

English proficiency levels are clearly defined and described. Each language level is characterised by a set of basic skills and abilities. If you don’t know what stage you are at right now, our standard test can help .

CEFR Scale

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR or CEF) is a specially designed classification system that indicates levels of language proficiency in European languages.

Levels of English Proficiency

Depending on the volume of knowledge and speech skills, there are six levels of foreign language proficiency. After reading the description of each of them, you will be able to roughly determine your current level.

Level А1. Beginner

Beginner level of English. Vocabulary - less than 1500 words.

At this stage of learning, you can:

• understand and use everyday expressions, basic phrases aimed at satisfying basic needs;
• introduce yourself in English and introduce others;
• ask basic questions on personal topics (about where you live, friends and acquaintances) and answer them;
• interact at a basic level of English if the English-speaking interlocutor speaks slowly, clearly and is ready to help in establishing communication;
• understand very short (1-2 phrases) inscriptions in English with illustrations (postcards, road signs, brief explanations, signs).

Level А2. Elementary

Elementary English. Vocabulary — 1500–2500 words.

Having reached this level, you will be able to:

• understand statements related to the most basic aspects of life (talking about yourself and your family, employment, shopping);
• ask for directions (how to get from point A to point B) and understand the answer;
• explain yourself in English in simple everyday situations that require a direct exchange of information on topics familiar to you;
• tell in English who you are, where you live and who you communicate with, express your basic needs;
• understand the essence of English-language TV reports accompanied by video footage;
• read and understand a basic letter in English (order, order confirmation, short, simple personal letters).

Level B1. Intermediate

Intermediate level of English. Vocabulary - 2500-3000 words.

At this level, you will be able to:

• correctly understand the essence of statements on topics familiar to you (work, school, leisure);
• explain yourself in English in most situations that arise during a trip to an English-speaking country;
• describe impressions, events, dreams, hopes and aspirations, briefly state and justify your opinion;
• watch English-language films in the original, but sometimes guess what is happening only from the image on the screen;
• read the simplest instructions, as well as advertising brochures, letters, short official documents;
• write a coherent message (essay, letter, instructions) in English on a topic familiar or interesting to you.

Level B2. Upper Intermediate

Intermediate-advanced level of English. Vocabulary - 3000-4000 words.

What you will be able to do at this level:

• understand the gist of a complex text on a concrete or abstract topic, maintain a detailed conversation in English on the topic of your professional specialization;
• communicate freely in English on abstract topics, interact with native speakers without strain for either party;
• construct clear and detailed statements on a wide range of issues;
• express your view on a problem, point out the advantages and disadvantages of various options for solving it;
• watch most English-language TV programs: interviews, reports, talk shows, live broadcasts;
• write a coherent message (essay, letter) on a topic unfamiliar to you.

Level C1. Effective Operational Proficiency or Advanced

Effective functioning level or advanced level of English. Vocabulary - 4000-5000 words.

Having reached this level, you will be able to:

• understand complex and long texts on a wide range of topics, recognizing the implicit meaning of what is said;
• express yourself freely and spontaneously, without obvious difficulties in choosing words and expressions;
• use language flexibly and effectively in social, scientific and professional activities;
• understand unadapted films with a lot of slang and idioms;
• write clear, well-organized, detailed texts on complex topics, demonstrating mastery of the techniques of structuring and giving coherence to the text;
• conduct effective correspondence in English.

Уровень C2. Proficiency or Mastery

Proficiency. Vocabulary of 5000 words or more.

At the highest level, you will be able to:

• understand almost everything you hear and read;
• summarize information from various oral and written sources, formulate arguments and opinions in the form of a coherent text;
• speak on any topic without preparation, accurately and without difficulty expressing your thoughts, distinguishing the slightest shades of meaning even in the most difficult situations.