CEFR Framework
The CEFR Framework Applied
An international 6-level system — from A1 (Breakthrough) to C2 (native-like mastery).
A1Beginner· Basic greetings & introductions
A2Elementary· Everyday conversation
B1Intermediate· Travel & basic work
B2Upper-Int.· Fluent communication
C1Advanced· Understand complex content
C2Proficient· Native-like level
CEFR ↔ Major Exams at a Glance
MEC levels follow the CEFR framework — here is how each band lines up with IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL iBT and the Cambridge exams.
| CEFR | MEC level | IELTS | TOEIC | TOEFL iBT | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | — | 120–220 | — | — |
| A2 | Elementary | 3.0–3.5 | 225–545 | — | A2 Key (KET) |
| B1 | Intermediate | 4.0–5.0 | 550–780 | 42–71 | B1 Preliminary (PET) |
| B2 | Upper-Int. | 5.5–6.5 | 785–940 | 72–94 | B2 First (FCE) |
| C1 | Advanced | 7.0–8.0 | 945–990 | 95–120 | C1 Advanced (CAE) |
| C2 | Proficient | 8.5–9.0 | — | — | C2 Proficiency (CPE) |
Score bands are approximate equivalences published by the exam boards. Your MEC level is set by the Oxford Online Placement Test (OOPT) taken online before departure, with a first-day interview to adjust your 1:1 share, and your English File coursebook band follows the CEFR level you place into — so a target IELTS or TOEIC score translates directly into the MEC level to aim for.
Programme × CEFR Range
- Junior English · Pre A1 ~ C1
- Int'l School Prep · Pre A1 ~ B2
- General English · Pre A1 ~ C1
- IELTS Preparation · B1 ~ C2