What is the CEFR?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

Michigan Language Assessment exams are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), published by the Council of Europe. The CEFR provides a common basis for the elaboration of language syllabi, examinations, and textbooks. Many educators find the CEFR useful because it describes, in a comprehensive way, what language learners have to learn in order to use a language effectively for communication.

The CEFR Levels

The CEFR describes language ability on a scale of levels from A1 for beginners up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. This makes it easy for anyone involved in language teaching and testing (learners, teachers, teacher trainers, etc.) to see the level of different qualifications. It also means that employers and educational institutions can easily compare qualifications and see how they relate to exams they already know in their own country.