Many English learners want to know how their IELTS band scores compare to the CEFR levels like B1, B2, or C1. If you're preparing for a visa, a university course, or an English exam, understanding this comparison will help you plan better and set realistic goals.
This page explains both systems and shows how they match using an easy-to-read chart.
CEFR stands for the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It is a guide that shows how well someone can use a language.
The levels go from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).
A1 (Beginner): Can use basic everyday words and phrases.
A2 (Elementary): Can talk about simple tasks and daily routines.
B1 (Intermediate): Can handle daily situations like travel or work.
B2 (Upper-Intermediate): Can talk clearly and give opinions on many topics.
C1 (Advanced): Can speak and write fluently with few mistakes.
C2 (Proficient): Can understand and use English like a native speaker.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test that measures your English skills. It gives you a band score from 0 to 9. You get a separate score for:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Your overall score is the average of all four.
In the IELTS test, you receive a separate score for each of the four language skills:
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
Each skill is scored from Band 1 (non-user) to Band 9 (expert user). These scores are then averaged to calculate your overall band score.
Here’s a general guide for what each band score means for a specific skill:
In the IELTS test, each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored from Band 1 to Band 9.
Here’s a simple guide to what each band score means:
9
Expert user, fully operational with fluent, accurate English
8
Very good user, occasional inaccuracies but overall strong
7
Good user, some mistakes but effective communication
6
Competent user, occasional problems in complex language
5
Modest user, partial command with frequent errors
4
Limited user, basic understanding and communication
3 or below
Extremely limited or non-user
While the CEFR and IELTS scores are related, they serve different purposes and are used in different ways:
CEFR is a general framework that describes language ability in a broad way. It’s used by schools, employers, and governments around the world to describe overall language proficiency.
IELTS is a specific test designed to measure your English language skills in four areas — listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It provides a band score based on your performance.
Because IELTS is a test, your band score reflects your performance on that day. CEFR levels represent a more general language ability that can be achieved over time.
CEFR is a general framework to describe language ability from A1 to C2. IELTS is an English language test that gives you a band score from 1 to 9, based on your performance in four skills.
They are similar. CEFR C1 usually aligns with an IELTS score of 7.0 to 8.0, but it’s not an exact match. It's an estimated comparison.
IELTS is widely accepted for immigration, study, and work in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. CEFR is more commonly used in European education systems.
Not officially, but you can use comparison tables as a reference. Institutions may still ask for a specific test score, not just a CEFR level.
They serve different purposes. CEFR isn’t a test, but a framework. IELTS is a formal test and can be challenging depending on your English level and test-taking skills.
You receive a separate band score for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The average of the four scores gives you your overall band.
Yes. Retaking IELTS and improving your band score will help you reach a higher estimated CEFR level, but remember CEFR is a broader measure, not based on one test.
CEFR is recognized in the UK and parts of Europe. In the USA, IELTS or TOEFL scores are more commonly accepted for academic purposes.
IELTS results are valid for 2 years.
CEFR levels don't expire, but your actual language ability can improve or decline over time.
Some universities in Europe accept CEFR levels as proof of language ability. However, most institutions prefer official test scores, such as IELTS or TOEFL, for admissions.
Understanding the relationship between CEFR levels and IELTS band scores can help you better prepare for your English language goals. Whether you’re aiming for a specific IELTS band or a CEFR level, knowing how they compare gives you a clearer target to work towards.
Remember, consistent practice across all skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking is key to improving your overall English proficiency.