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) on your first morning, 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