Course levels as defined by the Common European Framework

Our language courses are structured according to internationally-recognized proficiency scales. In the case of European languages, we employ the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), Levels A1-C2.

At level A1 (Breakthrough) very basic, simple communication is possible.

At level A2 (Waystage) you can handle routine tasks and short social exchanges.

At level B1 (Threshold) you are able to understand the main points of job-related and professional text materials and enter into simple conversations on familiar, everyday topics. You can cope with everyday linguistic and cultural requirements involved in communication on campus and internship.

At level B2 (Vantage) you can master your studies abroad mainly receptively. Oral communication and written performance will still require assistance.

At level C1 (Effectiveness) you can pursue your studies in the target language without major problems.

At C2 level (Mastery) you should be able to master virtually any situation both linguistically and inter-culturally. You can also write your thesis, dissertation or a paper in the target language.

In certain cases, we divide one level into two sub-levels, e.g. A2.1 and A2.2 within A2. This is to highlight both the amount of time required to progress through that level (i.e. at least 2 semesters) and the sequence in which the respective courses should be taken.
On the basis of the descriptors given for each level, you can determine your own level of proficiency in a given language. Below, you will find self-assessment grids in various languages. In order to determine your level of proficiency in a desired target language, select a grid in your mother tongue or in a language that you know very well.

Raster:	Checkliste:
German	German
English	English
French	French
Italian	Italian

Self-assessment grids in other languages as well as information on the European Language Portfolio can be found on the Council of Europe website.

Language Center

Course levels as defined by the Common European Framework