The A2 English certificate and IELTS are both widely used in Vietnam and bring practical benefits for learners. But what IELTS score is equivalent to A2 level? Let’s explore the answer in detail.
1. A2 Level vs IELTS: Score Comparison
According to CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference), A2 is classified as an elementary level. It is estimated that A2 is roughly equivalent to an IELTS band score of 3.0 to 3.5.
Here is a reference comparison table:
Certificate | IELTS | TOEIC | TOEFL | CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
A2 | 3.0–3.5 | 150 | 400/97 | Level 2 |
Please note: This conversion is for reference only. It holds no official equivalency and should be used as a guideline for evaluating your current proficiency.
2. A2 vs IELTS: Comparison of Practical Use
While IELTS 3.0 is considered equivalent in difficulty to A2, the scope of use for these two certificates differs significantly.
Similarities:
Both test all four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Both are valid for 2 years.
Differences:
Criteria | A2 Certificate | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
Scope of Use | Limited to local purposes like education and employment in Vietnam | Accepted in 145+ countries by 11,000+ institutions |
Exam Fee | ~900,000 – 3,300,000 VND | ~4,664,000 VND |
Issued By | Vietnamese universities | Only IDP and British Council |
Some Vietnamese universities offering the A2 exam include:
University of Languages and International Studies – VNU Hanoi
Hanoi National University of Education
People's Security Academy
Academy of Journalism and Communication
University of Economics and Finance HCMC
Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities
And many more...
3. Tips for A2-Level Learners Who Want to Take IELTS
If you are currently at A2 level and planning to take the IELTS exam, here is what you need to do:
To prepare for IELTS band 3.0:
Strengthen basic vocabulary and grammar
Familiarize yourself with IELTS format and test procedures
To aim for a higher IELTS band (e.g., 5.0+):
Deepen your grammar and vocabulary skills
Practice common IELTS question types across four skills
IELTS Reading Task Types:
Multiple choice
Information matching
Sentence completion
Summary/note/table/diagram completion
Matching sentence endings
IELTS Listening Task Types:
Form/flowchart/note/table/sentence completion
Map/plan labeling
Multiple choice
IELTS Speaking Tasks:
Description and personal opinion questions
Yes/no and WH- questions
Frequency and preference-based questions
IELTS Writing Task Types:
Opinion essay (agree/disagree)
Discussion
Advantage/disadvantage
Cause/effect
Two-part question
Practice Strategy:
Focus on individual skills
Try full mock tests
Time yourself under real exam conditions
Final Thoughts
In summary, A2 English is roughly equivalent to IELTS 3.0, but this is only an estimated conversion. There is no official equivalency between CEFR and IELTS. If you aim to use IELTS for university admission, immigration, or scholarships, you'll likely need to reach band 5.5 or higher.
For A2-level learners, consistent practice and a focused study plan are essential to bridge the gap and succeed in higher-band IELTS goals.