What is CEF?

The Common European Framework of Languages was designed by the Council of Europe to provide a reference for language learning, teaching and assessment for all main European languages. It sets international standards for language syllabi, curriculum design and examinations.

Your knowledge of a foreign language will be defined as one of six main levels (A1 to C2). You can find the detailed description of each level on the European Language Portfolio website. The complete text of the CEF can be found on the website of the Council of Europe here.

Cambridge Exams and the CEF

Many international examination bodies, such as Cambridge ESOL exams and IELTS, have gradually mapped their examinations against the CEF global scale. This is also used to evaluate participant’s level and provide a clear route of study towards the completion of a certain level.