BEGINNER
Level 1 (Beginner)
Learners are just starting out in English. They can catch very basic words and phrases in familiar situations if spoken slowly with lots of repetition, and they are beginning to understand and read very simple sentences. In speaking and writing, they mostly use single words or memorised phrases, with frequent mistakes in grammar, spelling and word order, so meaning is sometimes unclear.
Level 2 (Elementary)
Learners can cope with simple, everyday communication about familiar topics like family, routines and basic needs. They understand short, clear sentences when spoken slowly and can read simple texts with familiar vocabulary, often rereading for full understanding. In speaking and writing, they can produce basic sentences with some control of grammar and spelling, and their messages are usually understandable, even if not always precise.
INTERMEDIATE
Level 3 (Pre-Intermediate)
Learners can handle short social exchanges and everyday “survival” situations using simple questions, answers and familiar expressions. They understand straightforward speech on familiar topics when it is not too fast and can read simple texts made up of clear sentences and short paragraphs. In writing and speaking, they can use basic grammar structures and punctuation to create simple notes, messages and short texts, though their language may still lack variety and clarity at times.
Level 4 (Intermediate)
Learners can take part in everyday conversations, express basic needs and talk about familiar topics in concrete terms. They understand clear speech with mostly familiar vocabulary and can follow simple instructions, as well as read straightforward, well-organised texts and pick out the main ideas. In writing, they can produce simple paragraphs on familiar subjects, using basic grammar with reasonable accuracy and including a clear main idea with some supporting details.
ADVANCED
Level 5 (Upper-Intermediate)
Learners can participate in a wide range of social conversations and are increasingly able to speak at length, often self-correcting when needed. They understand spoken English at a normal speed in familiar situations and can read a variety of clear, structured texts, using context to help with meaning and to find key information. In writing, they can produce well-structured paragraphs on familiar topics, using a mix of simple and more complex grammar, and can revise their work for basic spelling and punctuation errors.
Level 6 (Advanced)
Learners can discuss a variety of everyday topics, sharing thoughts and opinions with generally fluent and accurate language and going beyond memorised patterns. They understand the main ideas of discussions and information in familiar contexts, even when the language is more natural or slightly faster. In reading and writing, they can handle moderately complex, authentic texts and produce well-organised multi-paragraph work with a clear introduction, body and conclusion, using a wide range of vocabulary and mostly accurate grammar and punctuation.
