Listening – I understand commonly used words and simple sentences about myself, my family and my immediate surroundings when someone speaks slowly and clearly.

Reading – I can read familiar names, words and very simple sentences, for example on signs, posters or leaflets.

Communication – I can take part in basic conversations if the other person is willing to repeat or rephrase what they said slowly and help me express what I am trying to say. I can ask and answer simple, routine questions as well as those on familiar topics.

Speaking – I use simple phrases and sentences to say where I live and to talk about people I know.

Writing – I can write a short, simple postcard, for example to send greetings from a trip. I can fill in forms with personal details such as name, nationality and address, for instance when checking in at a hotel.

Listening – I understand sentences and frequently used words that relate directly to me, for example information about myself and my family, shopping, my immediate surroundings or work. I can catch the main idea in short, clear and simple messages and announcements.

Reading – I can read short, straightforward texts. I can locate specific, predictable information in everyday materials such as advertisements, brochures, menus or timetables. I can also read short, simple letters.

Communication – I can handle simple, routine situations that require direct exchange of information on familiar topics. I can take part in short social conversations, even if I do not understand enough to maintain a longer discussion on my own.

Speaking – I can put together a few sentences to give a simple description of my family and other people, and to talk about my home, education and my current or past work.

Writing – I can write short notes and messages. I can produce a very simple letter, for example to express thanks.

Listening – I understand the main points of typical conversations on topics I’m familiar with, including work, school, free time and similar areas. I can follow the general idea of many radio and TV programmes about current events or subjects connected to my personal or professional life, as long as the speech is fairly slow and clear.

Reading – I can read texts that rely mostly on everyday vocabulary or terms related to my job. I understand descriptions of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters.

Communication – I manage most situations that may come up while travelling in a region where the language is spoken. I can take part in conversations without preparation on familiar topics that interest me or relate to daily life, such as family, hobbies, work, travel or current issues.

Speaking – I can link simple expressions to describe my experiences and events, as well as my dreams, expectations and plans for the future. I can briefly explain and justify my choices and intentions. I can summarise the plot of a book or film and talk about my reactions.

Writing – I can produce a straightforward, connected text on a topic I know or that interests me. I can write a letter describing experiences and feelings.

Listening – I understand longer talks and lectures, and I can follow fairly complex discussions when I’m familiar with the topic. I understand news broadcasts and most informational TV programmes. I also follow most films in standard varieties of the language.

Reading – I can read articles and reports on current issues in which the authors present specific views or opinions. I understand texts from contemporary literature.

Communication – I can talk confidently and without much effort in everyday situations with native speakers. I can take an active part in discussions on familiar topics, present my views and defend them.

Speaking – I can give clear, detailed descriptions of various subjects related to my interests. I can explain my views on important and current issues and outline both the advantages and disadvantages of different options.

Writing – I can produce clear and precise texts on a range of topics connected to my interests. I can write an essay or report, convey information and justify a position for or against a particular point of view. I can also write a letter and highlight the significance of different events and experiences.

Listening – I understand long statements even when they are disorganized or when the meaning comes more from context than from clear cues. I can watch TV programmes and films without much difficulty.

Reading – I can read long, complex texts and literary works, and I can recognise stylistic devices. I also cope with specialist articles and detailed technical instructions, even when they are outside my field.

Communication – I can speak confidently without long pauses or searching for words. I use the language flexibly and effectively in both social and professional situations. I can present my ideas and opinions precisely and communicate them clearly to others.

Speaking – I can produce clear and accurate descriptions of difficult issues, present them in an organised way, discuss individual aspects and draw relevant conclusions.

Writing – I can write clearly and coherently, producing texts of a set length in which I express my position. I can write about complex subjects in letters, essays and reports, highlighting the points I consider most important. I adjust my writing style to the intended audience.

Listening – I have no difficulty understanding people whether they speak to me directly or appear on radio or television, even when they speak quickly and are native speakers, as long as I have a moment to adjust to the accent.

Reading – I can read virtually any type of text without effort, including academic writing and materials with complex syntax or grammar, such as specialised manuals, expert articles or literary works.

Communication – I take part in conversations and discussions with ease, using idiomatic expressions as well. I speak confidently and can express subtle shades of meaning. If I make a mistake, I can correct myself and continue in a way that sounds natural and barely noticeable.

Speaking – I can present clear and precise descriptions of complex issues, break them down into parts, discuss details and draw appropriate conclusions.

Writing – I can describe or analyse topics smoothly and clearly, adapting them to the situation. I use language in a way that helps the listener or reader easily grasp and remember the key points.