Understanding the Common European Framework & Exam Equivalencies

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language proficiency. It was developed by the Council of Europe to provide a transparent, coherent, and comprehensive way to assess and compare language skills across different languages and countries.

Key Features of CEFR

• Six Proficiency Levels:
  CEFR categorizes language learners into six levels:
• A1 & A2 – Basic User
• B1 & B2 – Independent User
• C1 & C2 – Proficient User
• Universal Framework:
  It applies to all languages, making it easier for institutions and employers to evaluate language qualifications.
• Used in Education & Employment in Europe where English is the common business and international relations language. Many universities, schools, and companies use CEFR levels to assess language skills for admission or hiring.

The framework has evolved since its initial publication in 2001, incorporating new descriptors for mediation, online interaction, plurilingual competence, and sign language, For more click here

As language proficiency tests can feel overwhelming, with so many exams to choose from—IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, TOEIC, and even the Duolingo English Test (DET), I think understanding how they align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels can be a good starting point as it provides practical descriptions, helping you chart your path to language mastery. So, I’ve created a table.

Also, international students who may want to enroll in a European university or apply for jobs in Europe at some point in their career will not only find it the most useful test results, but the most practical in their life in Europe. I find the Cambridge courses and test to have a kind of German sense of accuracy in grammar and writing skills, and a very neutral sense of accents.

Here’s an updated table with the CEFR levels and their approximate equivalents across IELTS, PTE, OET, TOEFL, TOEIC, and DET (Duolingo English Test):

CEFR Level	IELTS Band	PTE Academic Score	OET Grade	TOEFL iBT Score	TOEIC Score	DET Score
A1 (Beginner)	1.0–2.5	Below 30	Not applicable	Below 42	Below 225	Below 60
A2 (Elementary)	3.0–3.5	30–42	Not applicable	42–71	225–550	60–95
B1 (Intermediate)	4.0–5.0	43–58	C (200–290)	72–94	550–785	95–100
B2 (Upper Intermediate)	5.5–6.5	59–75	C+ (300–340)	95–114	785–945	100–125
C1 (Advanced)	7.0–8.0	76–84	B (350–440)	115–120	945+	130–150
C2 (Mastery)	8.5–9.0	85+	A (450–500)	120	990	155–160

These equivalencies are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the specific test provider’s guidelines.

Here’s a brief description of each test:

• IELTS: The International English Language Testing System assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking, with questions delivered either on paper or computer and a face-to-face speaking interview.
• PTE: The Pearson Test of English Academic uses AI-driven scoring to evaluate listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills in a computer-based format with automated speaking responses.
• OET: The Occupational English Test focuses on English proficiency for healthcare professionals, with role-play scenarios and writing tasks tailored to medical contexts; it’s conducted on paper or computer.
• TOEFL: The Test of English as a Foreign Language primarily evaluates academic English skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing through computer-based delivery (TOEFL iBT).
• TOEIC: The Test of English for International Communication assesses listening and reading comprehension, often for workplace contexts, and can include optional speaking and writing tests; delivery varies by format.
• DET: The Duolingo English Test is an adaptive, computer-based test that evaluates general English proficiency through a mix of short-answer and interactive tasks, with results available in hours.

Australian immigration accepts scores from the following English language tests for visa purposes:

• IELTS: Both Academic and General Training versions are accepted, including the One Skill Retake (OSR) option.
• PTE Academic: Scores from secure test centers are valid.
• TOEFL iBT: However, tests completed between July 26, 2023, and May 4, 2024, are not accepted due to changes in the test format during that period.
• OET: Specifically designed for healthcare professionals, this test is accepted for relevant visa applications.
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: Only results from the paper-based test will be accepted after February 12, 2024.

It’s important to note that at-home or online versions of these tests, such as TOEFL iBT Home Edition or IELTS Online, are not acepted for Australian migration purposes.

Some tests can be used for certain visa purposes. For instance, a number of professions don’t accept PTE, due to the lack of face to face English in the test.

For more information go to the Australian Home Affairs website.