A Comparison of the CEFR Level and IELTS 2024
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So you got your IELTS score if you got the score you wanted, congratulations! If not, tough luck, you can always retake the exam. Either way, you must have heard about the CEFR or the Common European Framework of Reference for languages and wondered what the CEFR level is in IELTS.
The CEFR test is an international standard to measure language fluency used by universities in mainland Europe to calculate your language proficiency. Now let us dive a bit deeper into what the CEFR is and how it is compared with the IELTS exam.
What Actually is the CEFR Level?
The CEFR level 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 competency using more reliable evidence.
What are the Objectives of the CEFR?
According to the Council of Europe, the primary aims of the CEFR test include:
- Encouraging the integration of multiple languages and a diverse range of languages within the educational framework.
- Crafting language curricula, utilizing optimistic ‘can-do’ statements and descriptors that cater to learners’ interests, requirements, and age brackets.
- Formulating and producing educational resources like notes, textbooks, and instructional materials.
- Ensuring the quality and effectiveness of the learning process, teaching methodologies, and standardized evaluations.
- Assisting in the development of a comprehensive language profile for learners skilled in multiple languages.
- Ensuring clarity and the ability to compare different language certifications.
- Facilitating teacher training and fostering collaboration among educators and instructors across various languages.
Why Compare CEFR with IELTS?
Comparing CEFR with IELTS involves aligning language proficiency levels for effective assessment. CEFR, a standardized framework ranging from A1 to C2, evaluates language skills across various languages, including English.
IELTS, a globally recognized English proficiency test, offers scores in the form of band descriptors ranging from band 1 to 9. To make a meaningful comparison, identify the CEFR level you aim to equate with IELTS. For instance, the CEFR B2 level IELTS score will be a band 6.5, etc. This alignment aids learners in setting achievable goals and institutions in determining admission requirements.
By understanding how CEFR levels correlate with IELTS scores, individuals can make informed decisions about education, career paths, and language skill development.
How to Compare CEFR with IELTS Scores?
Refer to the table below to know the comparison between CEFR and IELTS scores. Here, each level is discussed subsequently.
CEFR Level A1
A1 on the CEFR denotes a basic user who will be able to comprehend and use simple terms. Moreover, they will be able to identify themselves and provide or request personal information.
CEFR Level A2
The CEFR level A2 refers to a basic user who can interpret regularly used terms and idioms in everyday circumstances such as shopping, work, and so on. They can provide simple instructions and also can discuss diverse interests and needs.
CEFR Level B1
A CEFR level B1 user understands and communicates about family, friends, work, and leisure activities. They can explain travel requirements in a few paragraphs based on interests, goals, and experiences.
CEFR Level B2
CEFR level B2 corresponds to an independent user who can compose texts on a variety of topics. They understand major concepts using complicated texts and discuss concepts naturally with native speakers.
CEFR Level C1
The CEFR level C1 refers to a skilled user who can interpret complex conversations or texts and explain complicated subjects in professional, social, or formal settings. They also can write thorough texts about complex themes.
CEFR Level C2
A user is assigned CEFR level C2 because they can interpret and summarise any stuff that is simple to understand; they can communicate themselves clearly in difficult situations.
Similarly, IELTS (International English Language Test System) is a four-section international standardised test that includes listening, reading, writing, and speaking. This test is taken by non-native English speakers to demonstrate their language skills. Scores obtained are transformed to a band scale of 0 to 9. Hence, scoring a higher band in IELTS with proper practice will make you sit between C1 and C2 levels in the CEFR level chart.
The collaboration between CEFR and IELTS empowers learners, educators, and institutions by providing a common language of communication, understanding, and assessment. So, in order to study or work in Europe, the candidates must know the “CEFR level IELTS.”
As the CEFR interprets IELTS scores through a six-point scale to bring clarity to the reviewers (employers, organisations and schools), plan your IELTS preparation based on this CEFR-level IELTS score interpretation and start your journey abroad!
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