What level system is used? What do the levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2, HSK, N4 and N5 mean?

UvA Talen uses the internationally recognised Common European Framework of Reference to identify language proficiency levels. This international standard means you always know the language level of the course you are taking. The language level is also stated on the course certificate.

For the following languages we use the levels A0 to C2: Dutch, English, Spanish, Italian, French, German, Portuguese, Swedish, Russian and Arabic.
For Chinese we use the levels HSK 1 to HSK 4.
For Japanese and Korean we use the levels N5 to N4.

A - Basic User

A1: A basic user is able to:

  • understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type.
  • introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has.
  • interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

At UvA Talen, this level is divided into two sub-levels: A1.1 (part of level A1) and A1.2 (complete level A1).

A2: A basic user is able to:

  • understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment).
  • communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.

At UvA Talen, this level is divided into two sub-levels: A2.1 (part of level A2) and A2.2 (complete level A2).

B - Independent user

B1: An independent user is able to:

  • understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.
  • deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken.
  • produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest.
  • describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

At UvA Talen, this level is divided into two sub-levels: B1.1 (part of level B1) and B1.2 (complete level B1).

B2: An independent user is able to:

  • understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation.
  • interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
  • produce a clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

At UvA Talen, this level is divided into two sub-levels: B2.1 (part of level B2) and B2.2 (complete level B2).

C - Proficient User

C1: A proficient user is able to:

  • understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning.
  • express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.
  • use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.
  • produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.

At UvA Talen, this level is divided into two sub-levels: C1.1 (part of level C1) and C1.2 (complete level C1).

C2: A proficient user is able to:  

  • understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.
  • summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
  • express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

Other levels

Are you interested in a Japanese or Korean course? In this case you will start at level N5 as beginner and progressively advance to level N4.

Are you interested in a Chinese course? In this case you start at level HSK 1 and advance to level HSK 4.

Do you know your level? 

Why
UvA Talen

  • Many courses at all levels

    A fixed program offering 10+ languages in various formats. Online or at our location in Amsterdam

  • The UvA Talen approach

    Learning with us is fun. We bring people together. We support you so you can grow and achieve results

  • Influential and leading

    The largest and most prominent provider of top-quality language courses. We’re always in close reach, and we'll go to great lengths

  • Useful tools and flexible approach

    Everything is well-organised: your own personal dashboard, online tests, and our own interactive learning materials

  • Internationally recognised

    Universities and educational institutions also choose UvA Talen. We conduct exams nationwide in-person and online. Earn an internationally recognised certificate

Awesome! I had an amazing teacher who was so calm, clear, and supportive. It was an enjoyable space to learn a new language, UvA Talen was definitely the right place for me!