About The CEFR
Understanding the CEFR and iStoria
Overview
When you take an English test, you receive a score that usually corresponds to a specific English level, such as "beginner" or "advanced". There are many systems worldwide that categorize these levels, each with its own set of standards and tests. Some tests have their built-in leveling systems, while others adhere to broader, theoretical frameworks like the CEFR.
What's on this page
What is the CEFR?
The CEFR, or Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, is a widely recognized scale for assessing language proficiency. While it was initially developed in Europe, it is now a global standard, particularly for European languages including English. The CEFR is not tied to any specific test but is used by many to provide level equivalencies.
Other frameworks similar to the CEFR include the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines (ACTFL), the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), and the Interagency Language Roundtable scale (ILR).
The CEFR and iStoria
The English Skill Navigator of iStoria is designed to align perfectly with the CEFR levels. This alignment makes The English Skill Navigator of iStoria an excellent choice for measuring your English proficiency according to the CEFR standards.
Origins of the CEFR
The CEFR was developed by the Council of Europe in the 1990s to create a unified language proficiency framework across Europe. Its purpose is to provide clear and consistent language proficiency levels for learners, educators, and institutions. It uses “can-do” statements to describe what learners can achieve at each level, which helps in both teaching and assessment.
Why the CEFR Matters
The CEFR is becoming the standard for describing language skills, particularly in Europe. It simplifies the presentation of language proficiency on a CV, especially for those who know multiple languages. In educational settings, it’s widely used for structuring curricula and assessments. While not as universally recognized in corporate settings, including a CEFR level alongside practical examples of your language skills can still be beneficial.
Determining Your CEFR Level
To find out your CEFR level, taking a standardized test is the best approach. For English, The English Skill Navigator of iStoria is an excellent option as it is free and fully aligned with the CEFR.