Compare IELTS and CERF scores - Convert IELTS scores to CEFR

What is IELTS? What is CEFR? How are these two certificates different? Learn more about IELTS CEFR with DOL through the article below!   

1. Level comparison table between IELTS and CEFR

Before learning about the IELTS and CEFR score conversion tables , let's explore the definitions of these two exams with DOL!

• IELTS is an acronym for International English Language Testing System. The International English Language Testing System includes 4 skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. Currently, IELTS is considered the ability to use English - the world's most important and popular language for study, work and settlement purposes.
• CEFR is an acronym for Common European Framework Of Reference For Languages. Is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​- An international standard to describe the ability to use foreign languages ​​(including English). CEFR divides language proficiency into six levels. From A1 level for beginners, up to C2 level for those who have mastered a certain foreign language.

You can refer to the IELTS to CEFR table below to know how IELTS scores are equivalent to CEFR levels!

IELTS to CEFR score conversion table

Based on the above table, we see that there is a difference in English ability in IELTS band scores and CEFR levels. As follows: 

• IELTS 4.0 - 4.5 equivalent to CEFR B1: Candidates with IELTS 4.5 - 5.0 and B1 CEFR level can only use English to a very limited extent, still quite weak. Therefore it is necessary to work hard to achieve a higher score.
• IELTS 5.0 – 6.5 equivalent to CEFR B2: This level reflects the ability to use English quite fluently while speaking. Candidates who score in the CEFR B2 range have a good chance of being admitted to some of the top universities.
• IELTS 7.0 - 8.0 equivalent to CEFR C1: This score indicates that candidates have high-level English skills, almost fluent. Therefore, it is understandable that candidates possessing this level of English can easily study abroad at prestigious universities in the world.
• IELTS 8.5 - 9.0 equivalent to C2 CEFR: At this level, candidates are assessed as having the same level of English as native speakers. Therefore, the opportunity to study and work in an international environment of IELTS 9.0 candidates is extremely open.

2. Correlation between IELTS and CEFR

To accurately convert CEFR and IELTS scores is a very difficult thing. Because inherently, the scale of IELTS has not been determined specifically and accurately. Cambridge ESOL has had to face a lot of difficulties since the 1990s to produce a table of equivalent scores between its English proficiency tests. Which covers from CEFR to IELTS .

The main difference between IELTS and CEFR is: IELTS is not a level based test like CEFR and IELTS grading is on a scale of 0 - 9.0.

The following is a specific analysis of the equivalence between IELTS and CEFR:

• CEFR Level A1 - IELTS 1.0 - 2.5:
  • Understand and use extremely basic terms.
  • May provide or request personal information.
  • Talk about common, everyday topics.
• CEFR Level A2 - IELTS 3.0 - 3.5:
  • Explain commonly used phrases in everyday contexts such as going shopping or going to work.
  • Able to understand simple instructions.
  • Discuss personal wishes and requirements.
• CEFR Level B1 - IELTS 4.0 - 4.5:
  • Communicate and understand conversations on topics that are close to home, friends, work, and entertainment-related issues.
  • Able to express personal needs quite well.
  • Write a short paragraph describing your hobby.
  • Briefly describe and clearly understand your experiences, aspirations, and ideas.
• CEFR Level B2 - IELTS 5.0 - 6.5:
  • Can compose a detailed document on many topics.
  • Understand key concepts in a complex text or recording.
  • Participate in discussions with native speakers.
• CEFR Level C1 - IELTS 7.0 - 8.0:
  • Understand complex conversations or messages.
  • In professional, social or formal settings, can explain difficult concepts fluently.
  • Write in-depth texts on difficult topics.
• CEFR Level C2 - IELTS 8.5 - 9.0:
  • Understand what is read or heard in English in most situations.
  • Easily summarize data from multiple sources.
  • In many different cases, you can quickly express your ideas as smoothly as a native speaker.

Correlation analysis table between IELTS and CEFR

The document shows the correlation between IELTS vs CEFR :

3. Should you take CEFR or IELTS?

Currently, there are still many of you wondering whether to take CEFR or IELTS? To answer this question, you must identify the following factors:

3.1 What is your current purpose?

• If you want to study abroad, settle abroad, apply for university admission, exempt from university English, etc., then IELTS is the optimal choice.
• If you want to have the required certifications for teachers of Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary School, High School, non-English major teachers at Universities and Colleges; certificates required for the civil service exam; certificate required in the file of a graduate student defending a master's thesis, etc., should take the CEFR.

To choose to take the IELTS or CEFR test, learners need to understand what their current purpose is

3.2 Economic ability can meet the test?

• IELTS exam fee is 4,664,000 VND
• CEFR exam fee is 1,500,000 - 1,800,000 VND
• Applicable scale:
  • IELTS: UK, Canada, Australia, USA and more than 143 other countries
  • CEFR: European countries, some Asian and Latin American countries

After determining the above factors, DOL is sure that you will have the answer for yourself whether you should choose IELTS or CEFR.

Candidates need to consider their current economic situation to choose between CEFR and IELTS

Learn more about the benefits of IELTS and CEFR through the 2 videos below to choose the type of English certificate that is best for you!

Video: What is CEFR? Benefits of CEFR for Teachers and Employers!

Video: What are the benefits of IELTS?

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Is English at CEFR C1 level proficient?

For English level C1, learners were able to express themselves in English fluently without the need for tools to support English translation or writing. However, in some special cases, learners are still capable of making some small mistakes.

How to go from B2 to C1 in English?

Need to do exercises, practice speaking, listening and writing English a lot and for quite a long time (about 5-7 months or even more). These aim to expand vocabulary, ability to apply grammar in practice and increase confidence in using English.

Is it possible to become an English teacher with a B2 level?

Absolutely yes! With this level, learners can become tutors, teachers of English for elementary school students, junior high school students or those who want to practice English to B2 level.

The above article has introduced IELTS and CEFR as well as provided all the necessary information related to IELTS to CEFR score conversion . DOL believes that through that, you have obtained the necessary information and selected the type of English certificate that is suitable for your needs.

If you are planning to prepare for the IELTS test, please quickly contact DOL via Hotline: 1800 96 96 39. DOL is always ready to support and advise you at any time!