Practical guide: the different levels of English and their certifications
Nowadays, speaking English fluently is a must.
It is the leading international language, so it is increasingly necessary to optimize communication between different cultures, to travel, and to facilitate access to as many opportunities as possible, both academically and in the workplace.
In this sense, it is becoming increasingly common for large companies, universities, internships and the most valued camps to require certification or a certain level of English.
It is the leading international language, so it is increasingly necessary to optimize communication between different cultures, to travel, and to facilitate access to as many opportunities as possible, both academically and in the workplace.
In this sense, it is becoming increasingly common for large companies, universities, internships and the most valued camps to require certification or a certain level of English.
For this reason, it is important to know where we are in order to improve our language skills and to look for the language training services that best suit our abilities and needs.
As you know, there are numerous certifications, level scales and exams, so finding out where we are and where to go can be somewhat complex.
For this reason, here is an outline that will help you define the levels of English that currently exist.
As you know, there are numerous certifications, level scales and exams, so finding out where we are and where to go can be somewhat complex.
For this reason, here is an outline that will help you define the levels of English that currently exist.
Levels of English according to CEFRL
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or CEFRL) is the system that defines and explains the different levels of expression and comprehension, both oral and written, for languages such as English.
Although this standard is mainly used in Europe, it is taken as a reference in many other countries.
Among other things, this model allows those who need to demonstrate their level of English, whether to study, work, apply for a scholarship or live a language immersion experience abroad, to compare the grades or level obtained in exams such as IELTS, Cambridge or Trinity with those required by the international institutions or companies to which they wish to gain access.
For all the languages covered by this system, the CEFRL consists of 6 common reference levels divided into three different blocks, which in turn are divided into two sub-levels:
Although this standard is mainly used in Europe, it is taken as a reference in many other countries.
Among other things, this model allows those who need to demonstrate their level of English, whether to study, work, apply for a scholarship or live a language immersion experience abroad, to compare the grades or level obtained in exams such as IELTS, Cambridge or Trinity with those required by the international institutions or companies to which they wish to gain access.
For all the languages covered by this system, the CEFRL consists of 6 common reference levels divided into three different blocks, which in turn are divided into two sub-levels:
- A / 1 and 2: basic user
- B / 1 and 2: independent user
- C / 1 and 2: competent user
Examinations, official certifications and their equivalences
One of the most effective ways to demonstrate our level of English to any institution or company is to obtain an official certificate through different recognized exams.
The following are some of the most relevant ones on the international scene. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
The following are some of the most relevant ones on the international scene. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Test designed for academic and professional environments
- Sections: Listening, Academic Reading, Academic Writing, Speaking
- Accepted as proof of language proficiency for certain work permits, as well as for immigration-related matters.
- Approximate duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Validity of the certificate for two years.
- IELTS test results are measured on a scale of 1 to 9.
- Common scores required for admission to English programs generally range from 5.5 to 6.5.
- IELTS prices vary from country to country.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- Approximate duration of 3 hours (online version) or 2h 25 min on paper
- Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
- Each section is scored up to 30 points, for a total maximum score of 120 points.
- The most common score required by universities is 70-90 (B1 / B2).
- Some universities also require minimum scores on some sections of the exam.
- TOEFL prices vary greatly depending on the country and the test center where you take the test.
- The TOEFL certificate is valid for two years.
Cambridge Certifications
They offer many types of exams, but the most popular are:
- A2 KET
- B1 PET
- B2 First: is approximately the same level as the common TOEFL (B1 – B2) and IELTS (5.5 – 6.5) scores.
- C1 Advanced: is aimed at high levels of C1-C2, comparable to IELTS (6.5 – 8.0), and is accepted by numerous British universities, educational institutions and companies around the world.
- C2 Proficiency: is the most advanced test, ranked at the C2 level which is well above the maximum scale of the TOEFL test, and similar to an 8.5 and above on the IELTS test.
- Each English exam (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) is divided into 4 parts: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
- Approximate duration of 3 to 4 hours
- Cambridge certificates are mainly used in the UK, but are also accepted by many universities and colleges around the world.
However, they are not as popular as TOEFL and IELTS. - Unlike other certificates, Cambridge qualifications do not have an expiration date.
Although each university or organization can choose whether to accept results older than 2-3 years.
In addition to those mentioned above, there are other official certifications such as APTIS, Trinity’s Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE), which are also highly recognized by employers and international organizations.
Whatever the students’ levels of English, the best way to perfect the language is to immerse yourself completely in an English-speaking country because to learn a language, you have to live it!
Whatever the students’ levels of English, the best way to perfect the language is to immerse yourself completely in an English-speaking country because to learn a language, you have to live it!