by Laura Jones
Published on December 6, 2024
Understanding French language levels: A Guide to the CEFR scale
Are you just starting to learn French, or can you already hold a conversation fairly easily? Would that place you at make you A2, B1 or something else? The letters and numbers of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) can be confusing at first. But understanding French language levels is key to being able to set goals and make steady progress. So, in this article, we’re going to explain the CEFR levels and what you should be able to achieve at each stage.
The CEFR is a standard way of describing your level and is used to assess proficiency in any language. It helps learners and others, like universities and employers, understand language proficiency. There are six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficiency) and at each level, there are “can-do” statements for learners. No matter which level you are at, Lingoda can help you progress!
This table shows a very simple overview of what you can expect at each stage, from French beginner to proficiency levels.
| Broad Level | Cumulative Study Hours | CEFR Level | Description |
| Basic User | 100 | A1 | You are at the beginning of your journey and can communicate using basic phrases. |
| 200 | A2 | You can now exchange information on simple topics. | |
| Independent User | 400 | B1 | You can understand standard input and communicate on a broader range of topics. |
| 600 | B2 | You can have fairly fluent conversations with native speakers. | |
| Proficient User | 800 | C1 | You can speak fluently and spontaneously on most topics. |
| 1000+ | C2 | You are virtually bilingual and have no trouble communicating in any situation. |
Even though you’re just taking the first steps in learning French, you can already interact with people in a basic way, provided they’re speaking slowly and clearly. You should feel comfortable introducing yourself, discussing the weather and asking for and giving basic directions. Focus on learning chunks of language that you can use in practical exchanges of information. So, rather than simply learning gauche (left), learn tourner à gauche (turn left).
At A2, you can manage simple conversations on a wider range of topics. You can talk about your past — both what you did at the weekend and important milestones in the more distant past. You can conduct basic small talk at work, discuss your vacation plans in simple terms and talk about movies and clothing. To move to the B1 level, focus on learning new grammatical structures and expanding your vocabulary so that you can express yourself in a more nuanced way.
Reaching B1 is an exciting milestone. The CEFR considers you an independent user, so go out and start using the language on your own! At B1, you’re able to have conversations about work, education and your leisure time. You can talk about your experiences, give reasons for your decisions and express your hopes and dreams. Best of all, you can deal with most situations that come up while traveling, so test your skills and improve your knowledge by booking a trip to a French-speaking country. After all, traveling is one of the many reasons to learn French. Bon voyage!
Speakers at a B2 level can have conversations with native French speakers, interact on a range of topics and participate in technical discussions. At B2, you’ll be able to comfortably work in a range of jobs in a French-speaking environment. You should be able to not only understand but enjoy TV shows and movies in French, and watching authentic media is an excellent way to expand your vocabulary.
C1 is considered fluent. If you’re at C1, you can function completely independently in a French-speaking country. You’re aware of the nuances of French, and you can understand the implicit meaning of complex texts. As a C1-level speaker, you can discuss issues related to ethics, societal problems and education with little trouble finding the right words. You can also understand and make jokes! Practice and maintain your level by engaging with challenging texts and participating in lively conversations and debates.
C2 is the crème de la crème of French language levels! At C2, you have near-native proficiency in French. You can easily understand almost everything you read and hear, and you can express yourself spontaneously on any topic using precise vocabulary. But even native French speakers never stop learning! To continue your journey at C2, immerse yourself in the French-speaking world and expand your knowledge of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms in different varieties of French.
So, why is it important to know the levels of French proficiency? If you know your CEFR level, you can choose the right learning materials and find the best resources to learn French. This is really important, as B2-level learners wouldn’t benefit much from an A2-level course, and A2 learners would be overwhelmed by a B2 course! Finding the right match ensures your learning is effective and enjoyable.
Being aware of your CEFR level also allows you to set realistic, achievable goals, making it easier to stay motivated. For example, if you’re at the A1 level, it’s perfectly fine not to understand articles in Le Monde just yet! Knowing what’s within reach keeps frustration at bay. And, if you decide to learn French with Lingoda, you’ll get a tailored study plan ready to guide you through the levels.
Yes, you can have a conversation in French if you are at the B1 level.
That depends on you! B2 is the goal for many language learners.
It takes around 800 hours of learning to reach a C1 level in French.
Et voilà! Now, you should feel much more familiar with the French language levels, from A1 to C2. You might even have an idea of your level. If you’re not sure, Lingoda offers placement tests that will tell you where you are on the CEFR and suggest the best course for you, giving you a clear, structured path forward. Whether you’re a beginner looking for A1 French or you’ve moved beyond that, Lingoda’s flexible courses and native French-speaking teachers will help you take your skills to the next level.
