Framework proficiency levels: self-assessment
A1
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can recognize familiar words and the most common expressions that concern myself, my family and my immediate environment when spoken to slowly and clearly.
Reading comprehension
I can understand familiar names, words and very simple sentences, for example in announcements, posters and lists.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can get by in the simplest of conversations if the other person is prepared to repeat or rephrase what they are saying, speak more slowly than usual, and help me formulate what I am trying to say. I can ask and answer simple questions on topics of routine or very familiar interest.
Speech production
I can use simple expressions and sentences to describe where I live and who I know.
Writing
I can write a short, simple postcard, for example, holiday greetings. I can fill in forms that ask for personal information, for example, writing my name, nationality and address on a hotel check-in form.
A2
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can understand a few phrases and the most common vocabulary closely related to my own life; for example, very basic information about myself and my family, shopping, where I live and work. I can understand the main idea of short, clear, simple messages and announcements.
Reading comprehension
I can read very short, simple texts. I can find specific, predictable information in simple everyday texts, for example advertisements, brochures, menus and timetables. I can understand short, simple personal letters.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities. I can get by very well in short conversations, but I rarely understand enough to keep the conversation going myself.
Speech production
I can describe my family and other people, my living conditions, my educational background and my current or previous job, often using very simple phrases and sentences, often in a list-like manner.
Writing
I can write short, simple notes and messages on matters related to my daily needs. I can write a very simple personal letter, for example to thank someone for something.
B1
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can understand the main points of clear, standard speech on topics familiar to me, for example those regularly encountered in work, school or leisure time. I can understand the main points of many radio and television programmes on current affairs or matters of personal or professional interest, when the speech is relatively slow and clear.
Reading comprehension
I can understand texts that mainly contain very basic everyday or work-related language. I can understand descriptions of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can cope with most situations that arise when travelling in areas where the target language is spoken. I can participate in unprepared conversations on topics that are familiar, of personal interest or related to everyday life, such as family, hobbies, work, travel and current affairs.
Speech production
I can link phrases together in a simple way to describe experiences and events, my dreams, hopes and aspirations. I can give reasons and briefly explain my opinions and plans. I can tell a story or explain the plot of a book or film, and describe my own reactions.
Writing
I can write simple, connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest to me. I can write personal letters describing experiences and impressions.
B2
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can understand extended speech and lectures. I can even follow multi-generational reasoning if the topic is relatively familiar. I can understand most TV news and current affairs programmes. I can understand most films in standard language.
Reading comprehension
I can read articles and reports on current issues and identify the authors' perspectives and positions. I can understand contemporary fiction.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can communicate so fluently and spontaneously that regular contact with native speakers is possible without either party finding it awkward. I can participate actively in discussions on familiar topics, presenting and defending my views.
Speech production
I can give clear, detailed descriptions of a wide range of topics that interest me. I can explain my point of view on a current issue and present the advantages and disadvantages of different options.
Writing
I can write clear, detailed accounts on a wide range of topics that interest me. I can write an essay or report in which I convey information or give reasons for or against a particular point of view. I can write letters in which I emphasise the personal significance of events or experiences.
C1
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can understand longer speech even when it is not clearly formulated and when relationships between things are only implied rather than stated precisely. I can understand TV programmes and films without any particular effort.
Reading comprehension
I can understand long and complex factual and literary texts, noticing differences in style. I can understand articles in specialist fields and fairly long technical instructions, even when they are not related to my own field.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can express my thoughts fluently and spontaneously without much need for expression. I can use language flexibly and effectively for social and professional purposes. I can formulate thoughts and opinions precisely and link my own speech skillfully to that of other speakers.
Speech production
I can present clear and detailed descriptions of multi-generational topics, developing key points and concluding my presentation with an appropriate conclusion.
Writing
I can express my thoughts and views at considerable length in clear, well-structured text. I can write detailed accounts of a wide range of topics in a letter, essay or report, highlighting the points I consider most important. I can choose a style appropriate to the intended reader.
C2
Understanding
Understanding what is heard
I can understand all kinds of live and recorded speech without difficulty, even when it is spoken rapidly by a native speaker, if I have some time to familiarize myself with the way of speaking.
Reading comprehension
I can read practically all types of written language with ease, including abstract, structurally or linguistically complex texts, such as manuals, articles in specialist fields and fiction.
Talking
Verbal interaction
I can easily participate in discussions and in all kinds of conversations. I am familiar with idiomatic expressions and colloquial expressions typical of the language. I can express my thoughts fluently and convey even subtle nuances of meaning accurately. I can backtrack and work around potential problems so smoothly that others hardly notice that there were any problems.
Speech production
I can present a clear and fluent description or argument in a style appropriate to the context. My presentation has an effective logical structure that helps the recipient to notice and remember important points.
Writing
I can write clear, fluent text in an appropriate style. I can write complex letters, reports or articles that present a single case. I use logical structures effectively to help the recipient find and remember the main points. I can write summaries and reviews of professional or literary publications.
Source: The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages