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How to Convert TOEFL Scores to CEFR Levels

How to Convert TOEFL iBT® Scores to CEFR Levels

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"Understand the process of converting TOEFL scores to CEFR levels to evaluate your language proficiency on a global scale."

The CEFR is a globally recognized standard used to assess language proficiency. Converting TOEFL iBT® scores to CEFR levels can be challenging due to the differences in their scoring systems and criteria. While both measure language ability, the way they categorize proficiency levels varies. Understanding the conversion between TOEFL and CEFR can help you better understand your language skills in an international context.

Let’s learn how to convert TOEFL scores to CEFR levels and explore the process in detail. By comparing TOEFL scores with CEFR levels, you can gain a clearer understanding of your proficiency and its equivalence in global language assessments.

What is CEFR?

The CEFR describes the international benchmark with respect to the assessment of the level of mastery of a foreign language. It consists of six levels, starting with A1 for beginners and ending with C2 for language professionals. This standardised approach simplifies the evaluation process for all the participants in the education and assessment process, i.e., instructors and students alike.

The CEFR therefore provides a universal scale on which different language qualifications can be compared with ease. This ultimately serves as quite useful to both employers and institutions of higher education when trying to assess someone's credential level from another country or system. It becomes a common reference for increased clarity in understanding and recognition of language competencies across borders.

You might find this helpful : Top Reasons to Request a TOEFL iBT® Rescore: Understanding Your Options

Types of CEFR Levels

The CEFR consists of six levels that represent varying degrees of language proficiency. Below is a breakdown of these levels to help you understand each one more clearly: 

Level

Description

AO/A1 (Beginner/Elementary)

Users at this level can comprehend and use simple, everyday phrases and expressions.

A2 (Pre Intermediate)

These users can grasp and communicate basic ideas in straightforward situations.

B1 (Intermediate)

At this level, users can understand and create texts on familiar subjects, expressing opinions and providing descriptions.

B2 (Upper Intermediate)

Users at this level can produce detailed, clear content and engage in conversation with a notable degree of spontaneity and fluency.

C1 (Advanced)

These users can express themselves spontaneously and fluently, utilizing language effectively across various contexts.

C2 (Proficient)

At the highest level, users can effortlessly understand and convey nearly everything, discerning subtle differences in meaning.


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Comparison Table of TOEFL iBT® Scores to CEFR Levels

Here’s a comparison table that aligns TOEFL iBT® scores with their corresponding CEFR levels. This will help you understand how your TOEFL scores relate to international language proficiency standards.

TOEFL iBT Total Score range (0–120)

CEFR Level

114–120

C2

95–113

C1

72–94

B2

42–71

B1

n/a

A2

n/a

A1

n/a

Below A1

Section-wise TOEFL iBT® to CEFR Score Comparison

Now that we’ve covered the overall TOEFL iBT® to CEFR score conversion, let’s dive into the section-wise score comparison for a more detailed analysis: 

CEFR level

Reading (0–30)

Listening (0–30)

Speaking (0–30)

Writing (0–30)

Total (0–120)

C2

29

28

28

29

114

C1

24

22

25

24

95

B2

18

17

20

17

72

B1

4

9

16

13

42

A2

n/a

n/a

10

7

n/a


I hope this blog on How to Convert TOEFL Scores to CEFR Levels has helped clarify the conversion process for you. Understanding the relationship between TOEFL scores and CEFR levels can give you a better perspective on your language proficiency. Remember, whether you're aiming for A1 or C2, consistent practice is key to improving your skills.

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