The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment, is a guideline used to describe, achievements of learners of foreign languages, across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries(sans the USA). It intends to make candidates’ language qualification and proficiency evaluation easier, for education admission or employment purposes. It was put together by the Council of Europe as the main part of the project “Language Learning for European Citizenship” between 1989 and 1996. Its main aim is to provide a method of learning, teaching and assessing which applies to all languages in Europe. In November 2001, a European Union Council Resolution recommended using the CEFR to set up systems of validation of language ability. The six reference levels (Basic: A1, A2, Independent: B1, B2, Proficient: C1, C2) are becoming widely accepted as the European standard for grading an individual’s language proficiency.
An A1 user can understand slow, articulated speech and ask for simple things.
An A2 skill level, the student can compose short phrases and common sentences and understand slower conversations.
A B1 user can confidently get around Latin America or Spain. They may not understand everything, but they know enough Spanish to get directions and hold basic conversations.
A B2 user has more vocabulary and can work a job like serving coffee.
A C1 level student can fluently speak and express himself/herself(does not mean understand every word in the language but that) he/she can handle most conversations and some tricky topics.
The C2 level is absolute mastery. Many native speakers never reach this level. Think of this level as more for college professors or experts in a particular field.
Most certificates that include the CEFR levels go from A1 to B2 or C1, depending on the course
A learner may be at different levels in different language areas: listening, reading, speaking, and writing. You can be at an A2 level for speaking, but a B1 level for reading. That’s completely normal! Most online Spanish language courses aim to get you to the same level in all areas but don’t be surprised if your skill level varies across language acquisition areas.