Free English Level Test: what’s your level?
Hi, I’m Ellen. I wrote this test the way exam tasks are written: short, clear, from easy to hard.
24 questions in 4 parts: vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing. At the end you get your level, your strong and weak parts, and what I would study next if I were you.
- Vocabulary6 questions
- Grammar7 questions
- Reading5 questions
- Writing6 questions
Don’t guess too much. If you don’t know, choose “I don’t know”. Then your result is more honest.
How this free English level test works
This is an online English placement test for adults. It checks four skills: vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing. The questions start easy and get harder, from A1 to B2, the same way exam tasks do.
When you finish, you see your CEFR level, your score in each part and the answers with short explanations. Then I tell you what I would study next, so you don’t waste time on things you already know.
English levels explained: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
Most schools, exams and employers use the CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference). Here is what each English level means in real life:
| Level | What you can do |
|---|---|
| A1Beginner | Introduce yourself, ask simple questions, understand slow, clear speech about everyday things. |
| A2Elementary | Talk about your day, family and work, shop, order food, understand short simple texts. |
| B1Intermediate | Travel on your own, tell stories, give your opinion, write a simple email about most topics. |
| B2Upper-intermediate | Speak with natives without much effort, follow films and meetings, argue a point clearly. |
| C1Advanced | Use English flexibly at work and study, understand long texts and hidden meaning. |
| C2Proficient | Understand almost everything and express yourself very precisely, like an educated native speaker. |
What your test score means
| Score (out of 24) | Your level |
|---|---|
| 0–6 | A1 · Starter |
| 7–11 | A1+ · Elementary, moving to A2 |
| 12–16 | A2 · Pre-intermediate |
| 17–20 | B1 · Intermediate |
| 21–24 | B2 · Upper-intermediate |
C1 and C2 need longer tests with speaking and listening, so this test stops at B2.
Want more detail on every level, with my tips and free resources? Read What is my English level? A1 to C2 explained.
How to get an honest result
- Don’t use a dictionary or a translator.
- If you really don’t know, press “I don’t know”. A lucky guess makes your level look higher than it is.
- Do the test in one go, in a quiet place. It takes about 15 minutes.
English level test: frequently asked questions
Is this English level test really free?
Yes. It is free, there is no sign-up and you see your result right away on the page.
How long does the English level test take?
About 15 minutes. There are 24 questions in 4 parts: vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing.
How accurate is an online English level test?
It gives a good idea of the level you can work at today, from A1 to B2. It does not test speaking and listening, so treat it as a starting point, not an official result.
Is this test like Cambridge, IELTS or TOEFL?
The questions are written in the same style as exam tasks and follow the CEFR levels (A1, A2, B1, B2). But it is a short placement test, not an official exam, and it does not give a certificate.
What English level do I need for work or to live abroad?
For most office jobs and everyday life abroad, B1 is the minimum and B2 is comfortable. Many universities and employers ask for B2 or higher.
How long does it take to go up one English level?
It depends on how often you practise. With 20 to 30 minutes a day, most adults move up one level in about 4 to 8 months. Speaking every day makes it faster.
What should I do after the test?
Look at your weakest part and start there. At the end of the test I suggest workbooks for your level, so you know exactly what to study next.