The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) defines six levels to describe a person’s ability to understand, speak, read, and write a language. This is widely used to assess language skills, including German. According to this framework (which is an international standard), there are six levels of German language in total. Here is the German language levels according to the CEFR

A1 – Beginner: At this level, you can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. You can introduce yourself as well as others, along with asking and answering questions about personal details such as where you live, people you know, and things you have. It’s important to note that at this early stage of language learning, learners may still rely on the other person speaking slowly and clearly to comprehend the conversation fully. As they progress to higher proficiency levels (A2 and beyond), they will become more comfortable understanding and engaging in more complex conversations with a broader range of topics and contexts.

A2 – Elementary: You have a basic understanding of the German language and can communicate in simple and routine tasks. You can describe aspects of your background, immediate environment, and everyday activities. At the A2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), learners have progressed beyond the beginner stage and have developed a basic understanding of the German language. At this level, they can handle simple and routine tasks with increased confidence and proficiency.

B1 – Intermediate: At this level, you can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. You can deal with most situations while travelling in Germany, and you can produce simple connected texts on familiar topics or personal experiences. Reaching the B1 level is a significant achievement as it indicates that learners can now engage in meaningful conversations and interact more comfortably in German-speaking environments. From this point onward, language learners can continue to develop their skills further, advancing towards higher levels of proficiency (B2, C1, and C2), where they will become even more proficient and fluent in the German language.

B2 – Upper Intermediate: You have a good command of German and can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics. You can interact with native speakers with a degree of fluency and spontaneity, and you can produce clear and detailed texts on various subjects. Reaching the B2 level signifies a substantial advancement in language proficiency. Learners are now able to engage in more in-depth discussions and interact confidently in various social, academic, and professional settings.

C1 – Advanced: At this level, you can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions, and you can use the language effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. Reaching the C1 level is a significant accomplishment, as it signifies an advanced level of language proficiency. Learners at this stage can engage in sophisticated and nuanced discussions, read and understand complex texts, and express themselves fluently and effectively

C2 – Proficient: This is the highest level of language proficiency. At C2, you can easily understand virtually everything read or heard. You can summarize information from various sources, reconstruct arguments, and present them coherently. Your spoken language is fluent and flexible, allowing you to express yourself effectively in complex and professional settings. In the professional realm, C2-level speakers have a significant advantage. They can pursue careers that require advanced language abilities, work in international contexts, and communicate fluently with clients, colleagues, or partners from diverse backgrounds.C2-level speakers are highly proficient and well-equipped to excel in any situation that requires advanced language skills.

These are the 6 German language levels

So, as you’ve decided it’s time to learn the German language, are you excited about the prospect of travelling to a foreign country and experiencing its culture first hand? Before you pack up your bags and jump on a plane, it’s important to understand what level of proficiency you’ll need. German learning is a process that requires engagement and dedication. It’s essential to set realistic goals and be consistent in your practice to see progress over time.

With dedication and perseverance, you’ll be able to communicate effectively in German and discover a whole new world of culture, literature, and connections with German speakers around the globe. German language learning is a journey that can begin at any age and any level of proficiency. However, it’s important to remember that language learning is a process, one must be engaged for improvement to occur. Enjoy your exploration of the German language. Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)