Understanding MET Results and How They Align with the CEFR Scale
For anyone preparing to take the Michigan English Test (MET), getting the score report is a major milestone. But once those results arrive, what do they actually mean? MET is designed to provide clear, reliable insight into a test taker’s English language skills—and it does so by aligning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Let’s take a closer look at what’s included in the score report, how to interpret the results, and why they matter.
What’s Included in the MET Score Report
Each MET score report is personalized and easy to read. Here’s what test takers will find:
- Test taker information – Name, test date, and registration details
- Scaled scores – A numerical score from 0–80 for each skill area:
- Listening
- Reading
- (4-skill only) Writing
- (4-skill only) Speaking
- Overall score – The average of all section scores
- CEFR levels – A corresponding CEFR level for each skill area (A2–C1)
- Performance descriptors – Brief summaries that describe what the test taker can typically do at their level
For computer-based tests, results are usually available within 5 business days, and test takers can access their score report online through the Michigan Language Assessment portal.
MET Scores and CEFR Alignment
MET is specifically designed to assess English proficiency from A2 to C1 levels. Here’s how section scores correspond to CEFR levels:
| CEFR Level | MET Score Range (per section) |
| A2 | 31–40 |
| B1 | 41–52 |
| B2 | 53–63 |
| C1 | 64–80 |
If a score falls below 31, no CEFR level is assigned for that section. This indicates that the test taker’s skills are below the minimum level measured by the test.
What Each CEFR Level Means in Practice
To make scores more meaningful, each CEFR level comes with a description of what someone at that level can typically do in English:
- A2 (Basic User): Can understand and use simple phrases related to personal and everyday topics.
- B1 (Independent User): Can understand the main points of clear, standard input and handle travel, work, or school conversations.
- B2 (Upper Independent User): Can interact with fluency, understand more complex texts, and produce detailed writing.
- C1 (Proficient User): Can use language effectively in academic and professional settings, with a high degree of accuracy and flexibility.
These descriptors are designed to help test takers, educators, and institutions understand a test taker’s functional abilities in real-life contexts.
How to Use MET Scores
Understanding MET scores can help test takers:
- Apply for academic programs that require proof of English proficiency.
- Meet language requirements for work or immigration.
- Track progress and set learning goals.
- Compare results internationally using the CEFR scale.
Many institutions around the world recognize MET results as part of their admissions or hiring process, thanks to its alignment with CEFR and its reliable, standardized format.
Turning Scores into Next Steps
A MET score report is more than just numbers—it’s a roadmap. With a clear layout, practical CEFR alignment, and skill-specific insights, it helps test takers understand where they are on their English learning journey—and where they can go next.
Whether someone is preparing for university, advancing in their career, or simply measuring progress, MET provides the clarity and confidence needed to take the next step.
Learn more about MET.