Europass language grid

Free CEFR language self-assessment

Answer four can-do questions and get A2, B1, or C1 grades you can paste into a Europass CV or German Lebenslauf.

Under 2 minutesFree — no signupBased on EU CEFR descriptors

Start your CEFR test

Step 1 of 5

Which language are you assessing?

Understanding CEFR levels

What is CEFR used for?

CEFR is the EU standard for describing language ability. Job portals, universities, and immigration forms across Europe ask for A1–C2 grades so recruiters can compare candidates consistently.

Why Europass needs a language grid

The official Europass CV includes a language table. Missing CEFR levels is one of the most common format-check failures we see on EU applications.

Is this an official exam?

No. This is a free self-assessment based on published CEFR can-do descriptors. For visas or regulated jobs, use a recognised certificate (Goethe, DELF, IELTS) as well.

Frequently asked questions

What is CEFR?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages grades ability from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). Europass CVs and many EU employers expect these codes instead of words like fluent.

How many CEFR levels are there?

Six: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. This self-test maps you to A2, B1, or C1 as a conservative starting point you can refine with a formal exam.

Is B1 or B2 better for jobs in Germany?

B2 is typically stronger for professional roles. Chancenkarte, nursing, and Ausbildung routes often ask for a specific CEFR grade, not “fluent German”.

How is CEFR different from IELTS or TOEFL?

IELTS and TOEFL are exam scores. CEFR is the European scale those exams can be mapped onto. Europass uses CEFR letters on the language grid.

Does Germany require CEFR on a CV?

A Lebenslauf should list languages with CEFR grades. Vague terms like conversational are weaker for HR and visa files.

How do I add CEFR to a Europass CV?

Put mother tongue in its own field, then list other languages in a grid with listening, reading, speaking, and writing grades. KudosWall can generate that structure for you.

Ready to put CEFR on a real CV?

Europass employers expect a language grid, not a single “fluent” line. Build yours free.