Cambridge English Levels

What are the Cambridge English levels?

The Cambridge English levels are a range of scores used to understand the results of the Cambridge English exam.

They were introduced in 2015 and align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or CEFR. Therefore, the levels range from A1 to C2.

English Level A1

This is the beginner level. Currently, Cambridge does not offer an adult exam to certify this level. However, they offer the Cambridge English: Young Learners exams, which consist of three levels (Starters, Movers, and Flyers), evaluating the language competence of children aged seven to twelve.

At this level, you will not yet be able to converse fluently because vocabulary is limited. Basic things are learned such as the English alphabet, letter sounds, days of the week, months of the year, etc.

English Level A2

Also known as elementary level. Here, you will communicate simply and directly on familiar topics such as weather, work, transportation, etc.

You will also recognize basic expressions related to relevant contexts such as work and family.

To certify this Cambridge level, you must pass the Key English Test or KET Cambridge Exam.

English Level B1

It is the intermediate level and here you will be able to understand the main idea of interactions in contexts like work and school. You will also be able to travel to an English-speaking area and handle situations that arise there.

Additionally, you will describe events, experiences, and future plans. You will also be able to write simple texts on familiar topics such as your professional activity and interests.

Cambridge certifies this level when you pass the PET or Preliminary English Test.

English Level B2

This is the upper-intermediate level. At this level, you will speak with a certain degree of fluency and understand the main idea of complex texts. Additionally, you will write clear and precise texts on topics of interest or related to your field of knowledge (your studies, work, or hobbies).

The FCE or First Certificate Cambridge Exam is the certificate you must take to certify at level B2.

English Level C1

This is the English level required in work and academic contexts. Upon reaching it, you will understand the implicit meaning of complex texts. In conversations, you won’t pause searching for the right word or expression and you will write coherent texts about complex topics.

Cambridge certifies this level if you pass the CAE Exam or Certificate in Advanced English.

English Level C2

Reaching this level, you will have perfect command of English. That means you can converse fluently and spontaneously, understand virtually any type of reading, and write concise and coherent texts. You will also be able to summarize ideas and reconstruct arguments.

To certify your English mastery, you must pass the CPE Exam or Certificate of Proficiency.

What level am I at?

Now that you know what the Cambridge English levels consist of, you can determine your own. To find out, ABA English offers you a level test that will give you a clearer idea of your skills and knowledge of the language

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