Job ads, university applications and visa requirements all use the same letters: A1, B2, C1. These are the six levels of the Common European Framework (CEFR), and each one describes what you can *do* with the language — not how many words you have memorised.
Six levels, three groups
The levels come in three groups: A is a basic user, B is an independent user, C is a proficient user. Each group has two steps.
**A1** — You can introduce yourself and ask and answer simple questions, provided the other person speaks slowly. **A2** — You can handle familiar situations: shopping, directions, daily routine.
**B1** — You can cope on your own while travelling, describe experiences, and briefly justify an opinion. This is the minimum most job ads ask for.
**B2** — You understand complex texts in your own field and can take part in discussion fluently. Many universities and work visas require this level.
**C1** — You grasp long, demanding texts and express yourself without obviously searching for words. **C2** — You understand virtually everything you hear or read and handle fine shades of meaning.
Which level do you actually need?
Your goal sets the level, not your ambition. A family visa usually needs A1, most employment routes B1, and universities B2 or C1. Check the exact requirement in the official listing — aiming higher than necessary costs only time and money.
Do not skip a level. Moving to B1 before A2 is solid is the most common reason people stall at B1: the gap you left behind shows up later.
If you are not sure where you stand, start with a placement test. LexUnio has courses from A1 to C2 in 13 languages, and you can start free.