In the CEFR system (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), knowledge and skills are divided into three broad categories.
A: Elementary language use
B: Independent use of language
C: Competent use of language
The three categories are divided into a total of six levels.
Can understand and use familiar, everyday expressions and very simple phrases aimed at satisfying specific needs. Can introduce themselves and others and ask other people questions about themselves - e.g. where they live, what people they know or what things they have - and can answer questions of this kind. Can communicate in a simple way if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help.
Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. personal and family information, shopping, work, local area). Can communicate in simple, routine situations involving a simple and direct exchange of information about familiar and routine matters. Can use simple means to describe his/her own background and education, immediate environment and things related to immediate needs.
Can understand the main points when clear standard language is used and when dealing with familiar matters from work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations encountered when travelling in the language area. Can express him/herself simply and coherently on familiar topics and areas of personal interest. Can talk about experiences and events, describe dreams, hopes and ambitions, and give brief reasons or explanations for plans and opinions.
Can understand the main ideas of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics; also understands specialised discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can communicate fluently and spontaneously enough to hold a normal conversation with native speakers without much effort on either side. Can express him/herself clearly and in detail on a wide range of topics, explain a viewpoint on a topical issue and give the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and also grasp implicit meanings. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without often having to search for clearly recognisable words. Can use language effectively and flexibly in social, professional, educational and academic contexts. Can express him/herself clearly, in a structured and detailed way on complex subjects, using a variety of text linking devices appropriately.
Can understand with ease practically everything he/she reads or hears. Can summarise information from different written and oral sources, giving reasons and explanations in a coherent presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely and can also make finer nuances of meaning clear in more complex situations.