What is CEFR?
CEFR stands for the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It is an internationally recognised standard used by language schools, universities and employers around the world to describe and measure language ability in a consistent way.
Developed by the Council of Europe, the CEFR scale runs from A1 (complete beginner) to C2 (mastery). It covers all four skills — reading, writing, listening and speaking — and applies to any language.
Find your next step
Once you know your CEFR level, the next step is choosing a course that matches your goal and schedule.
Starting from scratch
Typically A1–A2. Build a solid foundation in Danish or another language with a personal teacher.
Danish for BeginnersWork and career
Typically B1–B2. Use the language professionally with tailored one-to-one or group training.
Find a CourseFlexible online
For learners who want to progress around a busy schedule via Zoom or Teams.
Online DanishLiving in Denmark
Practical Danish for everyday life, work and integration in Denmark.
Danish for ForeignersThe 6 CEFR Levels
The CEFR scale has 6 levels grouped into 3 broad categories: Basic User (A), Independent User (B), and Proficient User (C).
A1 — Beginner
You can:
- Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases
- Introduce yourself and others
- Ask and answer simple questions about personal details
- Interact in a simple way if the other person speaks slowly and clearly
Example: "Hello, my name is Maria. I am from Denmark. I live in Copenhagen."
A2 — Elementary
You can:
- Understand sentences about areas of immediate relevance
- Communicate in simple, routine situations
- Describe your background and immediate environment in simple terms
- Get by in most everyday situations when travelling
Example: "I work as a teacher. I like reading and watching films. At weekends I often visit my friends."
B1 — Intermediate
You can:
- Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar topics
- Deal with most situations likely to arise when travelling
- Produce simple connected text on familiar topics
- Describe experiences, events, dreams and ambitions
- Briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans
Example: "I think learning languages is important because it opens many doors. Last year I travelled to London and it was a fantastic experience."
B2 — Upper Intermediate
You can:
- Understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics
- Interact with a degree of fluency with native speakers
- Participate actively in discussions in your field
- Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects
- Explain a viewpoint and give the advantages and disadvantages
Example: "Although technology has many advantages, I am concerned about how it affects our social relationships. On one hand it makes it easier to stay in touch, but on the other it can create distance."
Read our full difference between B1 and B2 English guide if you are unsure which level fits you.
C1 — Advanced
You can:
- Understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognise implicit meaning
- Express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much searching for words
- Use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes
- Produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects
- Show controlled use of organisational patterns and cohesive devices
Example: "The current economic climate demands a nuanced approach, balancing short-term needs against long-term sustainability goals. It is crucial that we consider not only economic growth but also social and environmental consequences."
C2 — Mastery
You can:
- Understand with ease virtually everything heard or read
- Summarise information from different spoken and written sources
- Express yourself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely
- Differentiate finer shades of meaning even in complex situations
- Communicate at the level of a native speaker
Example: "The evolution of language mirrors the transformation of society. When we analyse linguistic shifts, we observe not merely changes in vocabulary but deep cultural and ideological movements that shape our collective consciousness."
CEFR Quick Reference
| Level | Category | Description | Typical context |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Basic User | Beginner | First words, greetings, introductions |
| A2 | Basic User | Elementary | Everyday transactions, simple descriptions |
| B1 | Independent User | Intermediate | Travel, straightforward workplace communication |
| B2 | Independent User | Upper Intermediate | Professional discussions, complex topics |
| C1 | Proficient User | Advanced | Academic writing, fluent business communication |
| C2 | Proficient User | Mastery | Near-native, nuanced expression in any context |
How we use CEFR at International Communication
Level assessment
Before your course starts, we carry out a thorough assessment of your current level. This ensures teaching begins in exactly the right place for you.
Tailored teaching
Your teacher adapts the content and pace of the course to your CEFR level and personal goals — not a fixed syllabus.
Ongoing evaluation
Throughout the course we track your progress and adjust the teaching so you are always challenged at the right level.
Course certificate
On completion you receive an official certificate with your level assessed according to the internationally recognised CEFR scale — useful for employers and further study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to move up a level?
Whether you are a complete beginner or aiming for fluency, we will help you reach your language goal.