In the journey of language learning, it’s crucial to know where you stand and where you aim to reach. The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) provides a way to assess foreign language proficiency with its A1 to C2 proficiency level system. But what do these levels really represent? Let’s dive into the history of the system and the difference between each level.
The CEFR is an international standard for describing language ability, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This system is widely accepted in Europe and increasingly in other continents, providing a clear method to assess and describe language proficiency.
If you decide to take a German proficiency exam to provide proof of your language skills, apply to study at a European university, or even seek a German-speaking job, you’ll need to be able to describe your level of German in terms of this common system.
At the A1 level, you can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases in a foreign language. The focus is on tasks like introducing yourself and others, and asking and answering basic questions about personal details. Think: “Hi, my name is Kevin. I am a student. I am from America.”
A2 level learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to topics they are familiar with. They can communicate in simple tasks which require a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics.
When you reach the B1 level, you’ll be able to understand the main points of clear, standard speech/writing on familiar topics which you’ve regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. B1 learners are equipped to deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken.
At B2, you can understand the main ideas of complex texts and discussions which focus on both concrete and abstract topics. B2 learners can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. At the B2 level, you begin to feel comfortable enough in your language abilities to let your own personality and creativity shine through in your voice.
With C1 proficiency, you can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning in conversation. C1 learners can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions, and should also have a solid grasp on idiomatic phrases as well as an ability to understand and integrate culturally-relevant context into their communication.
In some contexts, C1 proficiency may also be synonymous with the term “full business proficiency”, meaning that your proficiency has reached a high enough level to enable you to operate autonomously and efficienctly in the foreign langauge for the purposes of your job.
Reaching the C2 level signifies mastering the language. You can understand virtually everything heard or read and can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. In order to reach the C2 level of proficiency, learners should also have ample exposure to cultural material and be comfortable understanding even some non-standard (for example, regionalisms) speech.
Identifying one’s own proficiency level can be challenging, as most learners tend to exhibit unequal progression across different parts of communication. For example, some learners may excel at understanding even difficult and unfamiliar written texts and expressing themselves via writing, but struggle to spontaneously express themselves in spoken communication.
At DeutschDecoded, we use a five factor rubric for determining and tracking our students’ proficiency:
We follow our students’ progression from Emerging → Developing → Competent, across these five communication factors.
While individual progression rates vary, regular, immersive practice facilitates movement between levels. When you enroll in lessons with DeutschDecoded, we formulate an individualized study plan for you which includes one-on-one conversation practice, grammar and vocabulary-building exercises, reading and writing assignments, and recommended TV shows, podcasts, Youtube channels or other German-language media to help you gain exposure to spoken communication across a range of registers (levels of formality) and contexts.
Understanding the CEFR A1-C2 proficiency levels provides a clear path in your language learning journey. No matter your level, every step forward is a triumph, bringing you closer to mastering the German language.
Receive an assessment of your current level and carve out your language learning pathway with DeutschDecoded.