CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison - Know Here

CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison: The CEFR's full form is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The CEFR and IELTS are widely recognized systems used to assess English language proficiency. The Council of Europe develops the CEFR, whereas IELTS test is conducted by the IDP. Understanding the CEFR level to IELTS score comparison is crucial for students, educators, immigration officers, and institutions. Here, we will compare the IELTS band scores with the CEFR level. 

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CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison

The table below shows a comparison between the IELTS band scores and to CEFR level. 

Understanding CEFR Level in IELTS

The CEFR categorizes language proficiency into six distinct levels.

Understanding the IELTS Band Score System

IELTS scores range from Band 1 (non-user) to Band 9 (expert user). The test evaluates four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The IELTS score bands are:

Why Is CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison Important?

Below are the reasons why CEFR measuring is important in IELTS:

• Access Global Professional Opportunities

• Travel and Immigration Made Easier

• Work or Study Abroad with Confidence

How CEFR Level Align in Practice to IELTS Score? 

The CEFR level is developed by the Council of Europe. This level is developed to describe the achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and beyond. Meanwhile, IELTS is an English language proficiency test commonly used to evaluate the English language proficiency of international candidates from non-English-speaking countries. Both CEFR and IELTS assess the English language skills of candidates in real-world scenarios.

An IELTS 9 band score is aligned with a C2-level, demonstrating an expert English user who can speak and understand the English language with complete accuracy, fluently, and precisely. Whereas, CEFR A1 level aligns with the 3 band IELTS, representing basic understanding of the language.

Also Read:

• IELTS exam eligibility requirements
• Documents Required for IELTS Registration
• IELTS Test Slot Booking

Challenges in Direct CEFR Level to IELTS Score Comparison

Despite general alignment, directly equating CEFR levels with IELTS scores isn’t always straightforward. The tests differ in structure, focus, and evaluation criteria. IELTS is performance-based and includes tasks that mimic real-life communication scenarios. CEFR, on the other hand, is a broad descriptive framework

By recognizing the strengths and purposes of each system, individuals can better plan their language learning journey, prepare for testing, and meet academic or professional goals. Whether aiming to study abroad, apply for a job, or track language development, knowing where one stands on both scales is a crucial part of the process.

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.