The CEFR and the Cambridge English Scale

Cambridge English Qualifications are based on two powerful tools for measuring English language ability: the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and the Cambridge English Scale. Together, these tools provide a transparent and standardised way of assessing language proficiency worldwide.

What is the CEFR?

The CEFR is an international benchmark for describing language ability. It is used globally to consistently assess learners from beginner (A1) to proficiency (C2). Cambridge English exams are designed to align closely with these levels, making it easy to understand where a learner stands and what they need to improve.

What is the Cambridge English Scale?

The Cambridge English Scale is used to report results for the qualifications and tests. The scores provide a detailed understanding of the candidate’s level. They are also consistent across the different exams, making it easy to compare results and understand progress from one level to the next.

The Cambridge English Scale was built on their existing results reporting and years of research, and has been designed to complement the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Benefits

• Detailed understanding of results – candidates receive a score for each skill (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) plus Use of English in certain exams. They also get an overall score for the exam on the Cambridge English Scale.

• Straightforward and consistent – results across their exams report on the same scale.
• Easy to compare performance – the alignment of our exams to the CEFR and to each other is clear. Results on the scale also give a greater insight into candidate progression from one exam to the next.

For guidance on converting practice test scores to Cambridge English Scale scores, take a look at the official Cambridge score conversion guide.

Comparing scores

There may be times when it is useful to know how a CEFR level or old standardised score compares to a Cambridge English Scale score.

Cambridge's score converter tool can help you. Simply select what type of score you’d like to convert from, input the value and the tool will tell you what the equivalent Cambridge English Scale score is. You can also use the tool to convert from scores on the Cambridge English Scale back to CEFR Levels or old standardised scores.

Not sure which exam is right for you?

Take a quick online test to find out what level you are at and which Cambridge English qualification is best for you.