The CEFR in brief
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, published by the Council of Europe, describes six levels in three bands: basic user (A1, A2), independent user (B1, B2) and proficient user (C1, C2). It is the common reference for language exams across Europe.
What you can do at each level
| Level | In practice | Learning benchmark* |
|---|---|---|
| A1 — Breakthrough | Understand and use familiar, very simple expressions; introduce yourself, ask simple questions if people speak slowly. | — |
| A2 — Waystage | Understand frequent everyday phrases (shopping, local work); exchange simple information on familiar topics. | ≈ 180-200 h |
| B1 — Threshold | Understand the main points of clear standard language; get by when travelling; describe an event, briefly give an opinion. | ≈ 350-400 h |
| B2 — Vantage | Understand the main ideas of complex texts and technical discussions in your field; interact fluently with native speakers. | ≈ 500-600 h |
| C1 — Advanced | Understand long, demanding texts and implicit meaning; express yourself fluently and precisely, including in professional writing. | ≈ 700-800 h |
| C2 — Mastery | Understand virtually everything with ease; convey fine shades of meaning, even in complex situations. | ≈ 1,000-1,200 h |
* Cumulative guided learning hours from the start, according to Cambridge English: an order of magnitude that varies a lot with first language and exposure to English.
Equivalent TOEIC scores
ETS has set the minimum score per section for each level. The TOEIC Listening & Reading test does not measure C2.
| Level | Listening | Reading | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 60 | 60 | 120 |
| A2 | 110 | 115 | 225 |
| B1 | 275 | 275 | 550 |
| B2 | 400 | 385 | 785 |
| C1 | 490 | 455 | 945 |
The scale and thresholds are explained in understanding your TOEIC score.
How to find out your level
- In 20 minutes: the free TOEIC test estimates your score and level, section by section.
- Officially: only a certified exam (TOEIC, Cambridge, IELTS…) gives a level recognised by schools and employers.
- Day to day: the LexiLoop app offers words from A1 to C1 and places you according to the words you know.
How long to reach the next level?
According to Cambridge benchmarks, moving up one level usually takes 150 to 250 hours of study, more at higher levels. Vocabulary is the biggest task: each level needs much more than the previous one. Spaced repetition is the most efficient way to retain a lot in little time.
Now put it into practice
Estimate your score in 20 minutes with our free TOEIC test, then review vocabulary at the right time with the LexiLoop app.
Frequently asked questions
Is B2 bilingual?
No. B2 lets you work in English comfortably; bilingual proficiency is closer to C2.
What level do French engineering schools require?
B2, certified by an external test, under the rules of the CTI (the French accreditation body); many schools set 785 on the TOEIC.
Which level does the TOEIC measure?
The TOEIC Listening & Reading test maps to levels A1 to C1. It does not measure C2.
Read next
Sources
- Conseil de l'Europe — Cadre européen commun de référence (CECR), échelle globale
- ETS — Mapping the TOEIC tests on the CEFR (PDF)
- Cambridge English — Guided learning hours
TOEIC is a registered trademark of ETS. This guide is provided by LexiLoop; it is not produced, endorsed by, or affiliated with ETS.