IELTS Band Score to CEFR Level Comparison Table
Introduction
For anyone who starts learning English, figuring out your own level and comparing it against international standards is essential. Today, IELTS and CEFR (the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) are the most widely recognized benchmarks in the world. In Uzbekistan, the national exam — Multilevel — is also based on this same common European framework. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how IELTS scores correspond to CEFR levels (from A1 to C2), and how they relate to the National Certificate.
What are the CEFR levels?
CEFR divides a language learner's knowledge into six main levels:
- A1 and A2 (Breakthrough & Waystage) – The beginner stage. Understanding and using simple everyday expressions.
- B1 and B2 (Threshold & Vantage) – Intermediate and upper stages. The minimum level most universities and employers require.
- C1 and C2 (Effective Operational Proficiency & Mastery) – Advanced and mastery levels. Communicating freely and working with complex academic or professional texts.
The IELTS-to-CEFR comparison table
The IELTS exam is scored on a scale from 0 to 9. Each band corresponds to a particular CEFR level. Below is the generally accepted correspondence:
- A2 level: IELTS 3.0 – 3.5
- B1 level: IELTS 4.0 – 5.0
- B2 level: IELTS 5.5 – 6.5
- C1 level: IELTS 7.0 – 8.0
- C2 level: IELTS 8.5 – 9.0
Keep in mind that the IELTS Overall Band Score is the average of all four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Differences between IELTS and Uzbekistan's Multilevel exam
The Multilevel (National Certificate) system introduced in Uzbekistan is also based on these same CEFR standards. Still, there are some differences between the two:
- Format: IELTS is primarily an international exam taken on paper or computer, and its result is valid for two years. The National Certificate, on the other hand, is organized at the national level and has its own scoring system (for example, distinct scores for the B2 or C1 level).
- Recognition: IELTS is a universal key for studying abroad and for international companies, while Multilevel provides admission benefits at universities in Uzbekistan and meets the requirement for graduate studies.
- Scoring structure: Multilevel tests may have separate tasks for each level, whereas IELTS uses a single common test intended for test-takers of every level.
Which one should you choose?
If your goal is simply to gain admission within Uzbekistan, get a discount on tuition fees, or obtain a teaching certificate, Multilevel may be the more convenient and affordable option. If you're aiming for international universities, grants, or working abroad, then preparing for the IELTS exam is definitely the way to go.
Since exam fees, registration deadlines, and current procedures can change over time, it's recommended to always rely on official sources — my.gov.uz or the official pages of the Agency.
Practical next step
To find out exactly what level you're at and check which IELTS band or Multilevel level you're ready for, take a mock test on the CEFRify platform today, or assess your knowledge through your personal account!