All You Need to Know about CEFR vs IELTS Score Conversion 2025

CEFR level vs IELTS is the top way to test a non-native English speaker’s language skill. While CEFR is a standardized framework used to describe and measure language proficiency, IELTS exam is a standardized test designed to measure four basic English language skills - IELTS Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing – for non-native English speakers!

This article will explain everything about how to convert IELTS scores into CEFR levels, what each CEFR level means, and how using this information can help you prepare for your test.

CEFR Level vs IELTS Score Conversion

The CEFR levels vs IELTS scores can be correlated to give a sense of an individual’s language proficiency in Listening, IELTS Reading, Speaking and Writing.

Here’s a general conversion between IELTS vs CEFR levels:

Benefits of the IELTS vs CEFR Level Conversion Table

The IELTS vs CEFR level conversion table is useful for:

• Students and Test Takers: Helps in understanding their English proficiency level, setting study goals, and meeting application requirements for universities and visas.
• Educational Institutions: Assists in setting admission criteria and evaluating applicants’ English language skills.
• Employers: Provides a standard measure to assess the language proficiency of job candidates.
• Immigration Authorities: Facilitates the assessment of language proficiency for visa and residency applications.

What is CEFR Level?

The CEFR full form is Common European Framework of Reference. It is a six-point scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) that ranges from A1 (basic fluency) to C2 (native-fluency level).

It was created to replace the old way of describing language competencies, such as ‘Beginner’, ‘Intermediate’, and ‘Advanced.’

Teachers and learners around Europe use the CEFR levels to interpret and compare different levels of language skill.

The CEFR levels are determined by ‘can-do’ descriptions that aid in the following classification of foreign language learners’ proficiency:

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a global language test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers.

Universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies widely recognize and accept it across the globe. The test is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.

The IELTS exam evaluates four key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The test is available in two versions:

• IELTS Academic: Intended for those applying for higher education or professional registration.
• IELTS General: Suitable for those migrating to English-speaking countries for secondary education, training programs, or work experience.

Test scores range from 0 to 9, with each score corresponding to a specific level of English proficiency. Let’s learn what each of them means in the table below.

Why Compare CEFR vs IELTS?

Comparing CEFR levels vs IELTS levels involves aligning language proficiency levels for effective assessment.

IELTS offers scores in the form of bands ranging from 0 to 9. To make a meaningful comparison, it is important to identify the CEFR level and equate it with IELTS.

For instance, a B2 level English IELTS score typically correlates with an IELTS band score range of 5.5 to 6.5. This level indicates an upper-intermediate command of English, suitable for everyday communication and basic professional tasks.

On the other hand, C1 level English IELTS score is associated with an IELTS score range of 7.0 to 8.0, demonstrating effective operational proficiency and the ability to use English fluently in academic and professional contexts.

By understanding how CEFR levels correlate with IELTS level scores, individuals can make informed decisions about education, career paths, and language skill development.

How to Find Out Your CEFR Level?

Taking a carefully designed, standardized test is the best way to determine your CEFR level. The EF SET is the best option for English. It is the first test linked with the CEFR and is free. It will take you fifty minutes to finish the test and determine your CEFR level.

The CEFR equivalence is now provided on the majority of widely used English assessment exams, like

• IELTS
• TOEFL exam: Similar to IELTS, TOEFL scores can be aligned with CEFR levels.
• Cambridge English Exams: Exams like the Cambridge English: First (FCE), Advanced (CAE), and Proficiency (CPE) are specifically designed to match B2, C1, and C2 levels respectively.

For assessments in other languages, contact the official European language teaching organization, such as the Goethe Institute for German, the Alliance Française for French, or the Instituto Cervantes for Spanish.

The CEFR equivalencies are provided by non-European language tests, including the HSK Chinese Proficiency Test.

How to Improve CEFR Level?

Improving your CEFR level involves a structured approach. Take a look at the top 5 tips to improve both your CEFR level and IELTS scores.

• Regular Practice: Engage in daily language practice. This includes reading books, newspapers, and articles; writing essays or journals; listening to podcasts, songs, and news; and speaking with native speakers or in language exchange programs.
• Language Courses: Enroll in structured language courses that follow the CEFR guidelines. These courses offer a comprehensive curriculum tailored to your current level and help you progress systematically.
• Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests or IELTS online tests to evaluate your progress. For instance, if you’re aiming for a B2 level English IELTS score, practice with tests designed for B2 proficiency.
• Feedback and Correction: Seek feedback from teachers or language partners over free demos. Constructive criticism is essential for improving your skills, especially for IELTS Speaking and IELTS Writing.
• Advanced Resources: Utilize advanced learning resources appropriate for your target level. If you aim for a C1 level English IELTS score, focus on complex texts and advanced Grammar for IELTS with Comparative and Superlative exercises.

By understanding the CEFR meaning, how to convert CEFR level to IELTS scores, and how to improve them, candidates can better gauge their current proficiency and identify areas for improvement.

So, whether you are preparing for university admission, a job application, or immigration, this understanding can help you make informed decisions and enhance your language learning journey!

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