The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a guideline developed by the Council of Europe, published in its full form in 2001, that describes language ability on a six-point scale from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). It is used across Europe and increasingly worldwide to design language curricula, assessments and textbooks, and to allow qualifications and self-assessments of language proficiency to be compared consistently across different languages and education systems.
Facts
Partially Attested
Enacted / Adopted YearThe source dates the European Union Council Resolution recommending use of the CEFR to November 2001; it does not state the publication year directly. Key ProvisionDescribes language competence on a set of six Common Reference Levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. 1 Policy Status
Policy Status (category) FAQs
How do the CEFR levels help compare language exams?
Exams placed on the A1 to C2 scale can be compared with each other.
The CEFR describes language ability on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. Because qualifications are placed on that shared scale, teachers and learners can see the level of different qualifications, and employers and educational institutions can compare them with other exams in their own country.
Sources
1. Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (Wikipedia)
Development
In November 2001, a European Union Council Resolution recommended using the CEFR to set up systems of validation of language ability.
Common reference levels
the CEFR has provided a set of six Common Reference Levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2)
Lead section
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment, abbreviated in English as CEFR, CEF, or CEFRL, is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries.
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