Language proficiency levels
Self-assessment table
LISTENING
Level A1 >> I understand familiar words and some very simple phrases when spoken slowly and clearly about me, my family and my immediate surroundings.
Level A2 >> I understand single phrases and frequently used words in statements related to me (eg simple information about myself and my family, shopping, where I live, work). I can capture the main idea in short, simple and clearly stated announcements.
Level B1 >> I understand the main content in clear and literately correct speech on familiar topics that I encounter at work, at school, in my free time, etc. I understand the content of radio and television programs when they speak relatively slowly and clearly about current events or topics that interest me personally or professionally.
Level B2 >> I can understand longer speeches and lectures, following even complex arguments if the subject is sufficiently familiar. I can understand almost everything on TV news and current affairs reports. I can understand almost all movies in literary speech.
Level C1 >> I can understand a longer speech even if it is not clearly structured and has weakly expressed logical connections. I can understand TV shows and movies effortlessly.
Level C2 >> I can easily understand any type of speech, both face-to-face and broadcast, even when spoken by a native speaker at a fast pace. I can understand speakers with different pronunciations.
READING
Level A1 >> I understand familiar words and names as well as very simple sentences, for example in announcements, posters, catalogues.
Level A2 >> I can read very short and simple texts. I can find specific information in simple texts related to everyday life: advertisements, advertising publications, menus, lists. I can understand short and simple private letters.
Level B1 >> I understand texts that use language frequently used in everyday life or related to my work. I can understand the events, feelings and wishes described in the private letters.
Level B2 >> I can read reports and articles about current issues in which the author expresses a certain attitude or opinion. I can understand modern prose works.
Level C1 >> I can understand long and complex texts of various types by understanding differences in style. I can understand specialized articles and longer technical instructions, even if they are not relevant to my field.
Level C2 >> I can easily read texts of different types, structure or language complexity: manuals, special articles, literary works.
SPEAKING - DIALOGUE
Level A1 >> I can communicate in a simple way if the interlocutor can slowly repeat or rephrase what is said and helps me formulate what I am trying to say. I can ask simple questions and answer them in a conversation about topics I know very well.
Level A2 >> I can communicate in normal everyday situations where there is a simple exchange of information on topics or activities I know. I can engage in a very short conversation about everyday matters, but my language skills are not sufficient to hold a dialogue on my own.
Level B1 >> I am able to communicate in situations where I need to speak during a trip abroad. I can engage in a conversation about topics I know or am interested in, as well as topics related to everyday life (eg "family", "hobby", "work", "travel", "recent events") without prior preparation.
Level B2 >> I can communicate with native speakers quite freely and without preparation. I can actively participate in discussions about problems known to me, justifying and defending my point of view.
Level C1 >> I can express myself fluently and freely without looking for suitable words and expressions. I can use the language proficiently both in everyday situations and for work purposes. I can clearly articulate my thoughts and opinions and skillfully maintain a conversation.
Level C2 >> I can easily participate in any conversation or discussion, I know expressions and colloquial words well. I can speak completely fluently and accurately convey the finer nuances of a word's meaning. If I encounter difficulties in the use of language, I know how to transform what is said so deftly that others do not notice it.
SPEAKING - MONOLOGUE
Level A1 >> I can tell about where I live and the people I know in simple sentences.
Level A2 >> I can tell about my family and other people, living conditions, my education and current or previous work in simple sentences.
Level B1 >> I know how to form and connect statements to tell about experiences and various events, my dreams, hopes and wishes. I can briefly justify and explain my views and intentions. I can tell a story, outline the content of a book or film and express my attitude about it.
Level B2 >> I can give a clear and comprehensive presentation of various topics that fall within my field of interest. I can justify my views on a controversial issue by weighing differing opinions.
Level C1 >> I can present a clear and comprehensive presentation of complex topics, include sub-questions, develop individual theses and conclude with appropriate conclusions.
Level C2 >> I can present a topic in a completely free, clear and reasoned manner, appropriate to the specific situation. I know how to structure my narration in such a way that it is easier for the listener to perceive and remember the most important points.
WRITING
Level A1 >> I can write a short, simple text, such as sending a greeting card. I know how to fill out forms with personal data, such as entering my name, nationality and address on the hotel registration page.
Level A2 >> I can write short notes and simple statements. I can write a very simple letter, for example thanking someone.
Level B1 >> I can write a simple, related text about topics I know or am interested in. I can write a letter describing my experiences and impressions.
Level B2 >> I can write a clear, detailed text on a variety of issues that concern my area of interest. I can write an essay or a report, give written information, as well as argue one point of view or another. I can write letters highlighting the most important events and impressions for me.
Level C1 >> I can write my thoughts clearly and logically, express my opinion. I can write a letter, essay, or report on complex issues, highlighting what I think is significant and important. I know how to write in a style suitable for a particular reader.
Level C2 >> I can write clear, logical text in an appropriate style. I can write complex letters, reports or articles in a way that makes it easy for the reader to notice and remember the important points. I can write reviews and reviews of both literary and non-fiction works.
