“Intermediate” can mean very different things to different people. That is why the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, the CEFR, exists: it divides proficiency into six levels with descriptions of what a person can do.
The six levels
| Level | Name | In practice |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Beginner | Introduce yourself, understand simple, very common phrases |
| A2 | Elementary | Handle routine situations: shopping, directions, simple work tasks |
| B1 | Intermediate | Get by when traveling, describe experiences, follow the main points of clear speech |
| B2 | Upper intermediate | Talk with native speakers with some ease, understand most TV shows and technical texts in your field |
| C1 | Advanced | Use the language flexibly at work and in study, understand long texts and implied meaning |
| C2 | Proficient | Understand virtually everything and express yourself precisely in complex situations |
The jump that matters most: B1 to B2
B1 is the level of someone who “gets by”. B2 is the level of someone who actually uses the language: works in it, attends meetings, follows TV shows without constantly relying on subtitles. That is why most employers ask for B2.
It is also where many learners plateau, because it requires a lot of vocabulary and an ear trained on natural speech, not more grammar.
How each level experiences TV shows
| Level | Watching shows in the language |
|---|---|
| A2 | Needs subtitles in their native language or dual subtitles |
| B1 | Follows simple shows with original subtitles, missing parts |
| B2 | Understands most shows with original subtitles |
| C1 | Understands almost everything, sometimes without subtitles |
How to find out your level
- Free online tests give a quick estimate.
- Official exams such as Cambridge, IELTS and TOEFL give a result accepted by employers and universities.
- Self-assessment: compare what you can do with the table above. It is imperfect but useful for planning.
How to move up a level
Each level requires more hours of contact with the language; see the estimates in how long it takes to learn English. From B1 on, what matters most is input volume: shows, videos and reading at your level, with quick lookups for new words. In Telidioma, word explanations adapt to the level you choose, from beginner to advanced.
Frequently asked questions
What level of English do employers ask for?
For jobs that use English daily, B2 is the most common requirement. Roles in international companies or with heavy negotiation may ask for C1.
How can I find out my level?
Free online tests give an estimate. For an official result, exams such as Cambridge, IELTS and TOEFL report a level or have a conversion table to the CEFR.
What is the difference between B1 and B2?
At B1 you can manage familiar situations and talk about everyday topics. At B2 you can discuss more abstract subjects, understand most TV shows and talk with native speakers with some ease.