Guide to Language Proficiency Levels

How can you quickly and easily assess your speaking and listening skills?

• Using the DLI Method: This method evaluates your listening skills, as well as your comprehension of real-life language, by analyzing a video.

2. Or by using the guide below: This guide provides an overview of each level for reference.

Important Note:
If your reading proficiency is A2 or higher, but there’s a significant gap between your reading skills and your speaking or listening skills, you can enhance your listening and, especially, your speaking abilities by attending conversation-focused classes using the DLI method.

General Guide to Language Proficiency Levels

Level 1 or A1: Absolute Beginner

• Listening: Can understand very simple, everyday phrases and expressions (e.g., introducing yourself, asking for directions, ordering food).
• Reading: Can understand short, basic texts like signs, posters, or simple sentences.
• Speaking: Can share basic personal information (name, age, where you live) but with frequent pauses and many mistakes.
• Writing: Can write simple sentences with limited vocabulary and structures.

Level 2 or A2: Advanced Beginner

• Listening: Can understand commonly used sentences in everyday contexts (e.g., family, shopping, work).
• Reading: Can read short texts, like messages or informal emails.
• Speaking: Can hold short and simple conversations about familiar topics, though still needing support.
• Writing: Can write brief texts, such as simple messages or personal introductions.

Level 3 or B1: Intermediate

• Listening: Can understand the main points of conversations on general topics like work, school, or travel.
• Reading: Can comprehend longer texts, such as short stories or basic news articles.
• Speaking: Can participate in daily interactions and express simple opinions.
• Writing: Can write cohesive texts on familiar topics.

Level 4 or B2: Upper Intermediate

• Listening: Can understand most conversations and lectures, even on less familiar topics.
• Reading: Can read and comprehend a wide range of specialized and varied texts.
• Speaking: Can engage in more fluent conversations and discuss various subjects.
• Writing: Can write clear, detailed texts on a broad range of topics.

Level 5 or C1: Advanced

• Listening: Can grasp complex details in conversations, movies, and specialized lectures.
• Reading: Can understand complex texts, including scientific articles or literature.
• Speaking: Can express opinions fluently, accurately, and in an organized manner, even on complex topics.
• Writing: Can produce professional documents, essays, or in-depth analyses.

Level 6 or C2: Proficient/Fluent

• Listening: Can fully understand any type of conversation or content, even with accents or idiomatic expressions.
• Reading: Can comprehend highly complex texts, including advanced academic and literary works.
• Speaking: Can communicate fluently, precisely, and effortlessly, similar to a native speaker.
• Writing: Can create complex and specialized texts with high skill and accuracy.

Other Methods to Assess Your Language Proficiency

1. Standardized Tests: Use tests like CEFR (A1 to C2) or reliable online language assessments.
2. Feedback from a Professional Teacher: Get evaluated by an experienced teacher who uses scientific methods to assess your skills.
3. Real-Life Practice: Your comfort level in real-life conversations can also provide a good indication of your proficiency.