Language proficiency levels (CEFR)
SOAS Language Centre proficiency levels
| LEVELS | Listening/Speaking | Reading | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| C2 Level 5 | CAN advise on or talk about complex or sensitive issues, understanding colloquial references and dealing confidently with hostile questions. | CAN understand documents, correspondence and reports, including the finer points of complex texts. | CAN write letters on any subject and full notes of meetings or seminars with good expression and accuracy. |
| C1 Level 4 | CAN contribute effectively to meetings and seminars within own area of work or keep up a casual conversation with a good degree of fluency, coping with abstract expressions. | CAN read quickly enough to cope with an academic course, to read the media for information or to understand non-standard correspondence. | CAN prepare/draft professional correspondence, take reasonably accurate notes in meetings or write an essay which shows an ability to communicate. |
| B2 Level 3 | CAN follow or give a talk on a familiar topic or keep up a conversation on a fairly wide range of topics. | CAN scan texts for relevant information, and understand detailed instructions or advice. | CAN make notes while someone is talking or write a letter including non-standard requests. |
| B1 Level 2 | CAN express opinions on abstract/cultural matters in a limited way or offer advice within a known area, and understand instructions or public announcements. | CAN understand routine information and articles, and the general meaning of non-routine information within a familiar area. | CAN write letters or make notes on familiar or predictable matters. |
| A2 Level 1 | CAN express simple opinions or requirements in a familiar context. | CAN understand straightforward information within a known area, such as on products and signs and simple textbooks or reports on familiar matters. | CAN complete forms and write short simple letters or postcards related to personal information. |
| A1 ALTE breakthrough level | CAN understand basic instructions or take part in a basic factual conversation on a predictable topic. | CAN understand basic notices, instructions or information. | CAN complete basic forms, and write notes including times, dates and places. |
