Language levels and standards

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

The “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages” (CEFR) helps to standardise different course levels and support you in your choice of course. There are a total of six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. These levels are further divided into two sub-levels (A1/1, A1/2, A2/1, etc.). A1 and A2 are elementary levels; B1 and B2 intermediate levels; and C1 and C2 advanced levels.

The CEFR describes comprehensively what competence language learners have at a certain level and what communicative situations they can handle. In this way you can measure your learning progress throughout your life and at each level.

Placement test

The placement test helps you to find out your German level and serves as a basis for the allocation of groups in the language courses. So, you don’t have to be frightened of it – it isn’t a “proper” test. Just try to do the test as well as you can, since this will ensure that you attend the course that is right for you. If you don’t have any knowledge of German at all, you don’t have to take a placement test. In this case, you will just attend basic course “Grundstufe 1 (A1/1)”. The placement test for exchange and regular students takes place at FH JOANNEUM Graz online.