IELTS and CEFR Levels: In-Depth Score Comparison

This blog takes a closer look at the relationship between IELTS band scores and the six levels of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). It compares IELTS bands and CEFR levels, shows how they are connected, and explains what the levels mean.

As the CEFR becomes prominent in how institutions consider language ability requirements, it is important to understand how IELTS scores can be interpreted in terms of CEFR levels.

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. It does this by using a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. These levels make it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing to understand qualifications and compare them to other exams.

Launched in 2001, the CEFR can be adapted and used for multiple contexts and applied to all languages. Its six levels, A1 to C2, can be regrouped into three broad levels: Basic User, Independent User, and Proficient User. These can be further subdivided according to local context.

English-language skills are measured by band scores on the IELTS test, which range from band 0 to band 9. Each score corresponds to a level of English-language competence. IELTS results give you a band score for each component of the test as well as an overall score, which is the average of the four section band scores rounded to the nearest half band.

For example, if a test taker gets a 6.5 in the Reading component, 5 in Writing, 7 in Speaking, and 6.5 in Listening, the average score will be 6.25, rounded up to 6.5 for the overall band score.

CEFR levels and IELTS scores are both used to establish language ability. However, it is important to understand that there is no direct one-to-one correspondence. IELTS band score descriptors can help establish a level that can be matched with how CEFR outlines knowledge and capabilities at various stages, from the foundational A1 level to the highly advanced C2 level.

IELTS is a test that evaluates English language proficiency across a nine-band scale:

• 9 - Expert

• 8 - Very good

• 7 - Good

• 6 - Competent

• 5 - Modest

• 4 - Limited

• 3 - Extremely limited

• 2 - Intermittent

• 1 - Non-user

• 0 - Test not attempted

CEFR levels create a framework that shows how abilities are enhanced as learners advance through their language education:

• A1 and A2 (basic language users)

• B1 and B2 (independent language users)

• C1 and C2 (expert language users)

IELTS, with its focus on assessing real-world English language proficiency, aligns well with the CEFR's practical orientation.

Here’s how CEFR levels can be compared with IELTS band scores based on levels of proficiency:

Converting IELTS scores into CEFR levels depends on what each level means. Here’s a table that shows how the scores and corresponding levels can be calculated:

A1 and A2: Basic User Levels

A1 (Beginner) is the starting point of the CEFR. This level means a user has a basic understanding of the language and can only communicate in controlled situations:

• Can answer questions about personal details

• Can make simple descriptions

• Can understand everyday expressions and construct basic sentences

• Can introduce themselves and others

• Can interact if the other speaker speaks slowly and clearly

Here’s what defines an A2 (Elementary) level user:

• Can exchange simple and straightforward information on routine matters

• Can understand common expressions about matters that interest them

• Can express aspects of their immediate environment in simple words

B1 and B2: Independent User Levels

Users at B1 and B2 levels have more language skills, but these can still be limited. Here’s what a B1 (Intermediate) level indicates:

• Can produce simple and coherent texts on familiar topics

• Can describe experiences, expectations, and ambitions

• Can understand main points of clear, everyday information

• Can briefly explain views

Here’s what a B2 (Upper Intermediate) level indicates:

• Can produce clear and detailed texts on a wide range of topics

• Can interact with some fluency and spontaneity with native speakers

• Can explain points of view with advantages and disadvantages

• Can understand main ideas of complex texts on concrete or abstract topics

C1 and C2: Proficient User Levels

Users at the C1 and C2 levels have a high degree of control over what they say and can make complex arguments. Here’s what a C1 (Advanced) level indicates:

• Can use the language flexibly and effectively

• Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously

• Can understand a wide variety of long and demanding texts

• Can create clear, structured, and detailed texts on complex topics

This is what a C2 (Proficient) level indicates:

• Can express spontaneously, with obvious fluency and precision

• Can summarise information from different oral and written sources

• Can easily understand everything heard or read

• Can reconstruct arguments and explanations coherently

• Can differentiate shades of meaning

CEFR levels can match multiple IELTS scores because they measure different things related to language proficiency. CEFR levels are broader (A1-C2), while IELTS has more specific 9-band scores. Here are some of the other reasons why this may happen:

• Overlap when it comes to range: One CEFR level can encompass a range of language proficiency, requiring multiple IELTS bands to represent it

• Research is ongoing: A test score can represent a spectrum of ability, which is why work continues to define proficiency levels and qualifications

• Presence of a borderline: Some IELTS scores represent a borderline between two CEFR levels

• Differences in assessment: CEFR is a 6-level descriptive framework, while IELTS is a test with a 9-point band scoring system

Yes, the CEFR to IELTS band score conversion is recognized as official because it is based on rigorous research studies. However, it is important to recognize that the relationship between IELTS and CEFR is complex because IELTS uses a 9-point band scoring system that does not offer one-to-one correspondence with CEFR levels.

The CEFR is not a test, but a framework used to certify proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

CEFR Level for Studying Abroad

If you are an international student, most universities and colleges in Canada require proof of English language proficiency. Here’s the average level required, based on corresponding IELTS band scores:

• For Undergraduate Programs: B2 (Upper Intermediate)

• For Postgraduate Programs: C1 (Advanced)

• For Pathway Programs: B1 (Intermediate)

CEFR Level for Working Abroad

If you are applying for a work visa in Canada, these may have lower language requirements than universities. However, the level of proficiency will depend on the nature of the job, because highly skilled jobs may require higher proficiency.

• For General Work Visas: B1 (Intermediate)

• For Skilled Worker Visas: B2 (Upper Intermediate)

CEFR Level for Immigration and Citizenship

Canada requires a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 for many economic programs. This is a rough equivalent to CEFR level B1 or higher. If you are applying to be a citizen, you need at least a CLB 4, which is roughly the CEFR A2 level.