IELTS to CEFR Conversion

Understand how IELTS band scores relate to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The CEFR is an international standard for describing language ability. It uses six levels: A1 (Beginner), A2 (Elementary), B1 (Intermediate), B2 (Upper Intermediate), C1 (Advanced), and C2 (Proficient). Many European institutions and some worldwide use CEFR levels.

Note: The mapping between IELTS and CEFR is approximate, as the tests assess skills slightly differently. This table provides generally accepted equivalencies based on research by IELTS partners.

Approximate IELTS Band to CEFR Level Mapping

CEFR Level	Description	Approximate IELTS Band Score (Overall)
C2	Proficient User	8.5 - 9.0
C1	Advanced User	7.0 - 8.0
B2	Upper Intermediate User	5.5 - 6.5
B1	Intermediate User	4.0 - 5.0
A2	Elementary User	(Below 4.0 - Not typically mapped)
A1	Beginner	(Below 4.0 - Not typically mapped)

Source: Based on information typically provided by IELTS partners (e.g., Cambridge Assessment English). Refer to official sources for detailed mapping studies.

Common Questions

Is IELTS Band 7 equivalent to C1?: Generally, yes. An IELTS overall band score of 7.0 is often considered equivalent to the C1 level on the CEFR scale. Scores of 7.5 and 8.0 also fall within the C1 range.
What CEFR level is IELTS 6.5?: IELTS 6.5 typically falls within the B2 (Upper Intermediate) level on the CEFR scale. Scores of 5.5 and 6.0 are also generally considered B2.
Why is the mapping approximate?: IELTS assesses specific skills in its own format, while CEFR provides broader "can-do" statements across different contexts. Research establishes correlations, but it's not always a perfect one-to-one match for every individual skill level.