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English Exams

Which English exam is right for you?

Start with your goal and English level. Explore ESOL International and SCQF-aligned ESOL, then ask about the exam options available for you.

Compare exam routes Get help choosing

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Choose an exam route

Both routes cover English levels A1 to C2.

CEFR A1–C2

ESOL International

Choose your English level, then explore LRN or ask about another awarding body. Confirm what is available before booking.

Explore ESOL International levels

CEFR A1–C2

SCQF-aligned ESOL

Compare the language skills and study time listed for each level, and ask about available delivery options.

Explore SCQF English Exams

Before booking, ask the receiving institution or organisation to confirm the exact exam and result it accepts.

Four steps to your exam result

Check your level

Use a placement assessment to identify a suitable starting level.
Prepare for the exam

Practise listening, reading, writing and speaking at your chosen level.
Confirm your booking

Ask about dates, fees, the exam format and approved delivery options.
Receive your result

Confirm the results timetable and certificate arrangements for your chosen exam.

See A1–C2 levels

English language proficiency

CEFR levels from A1 to C2

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages describes what you can do in a language. Your skills can develop at different rates. Use the examples to reflect on your current ability and ask about placement if you are between levels.

A1 · Basic user

First everyday exchanges

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Recognise names, numbers and common phrases when speech is slow and clear.
Reading: Pick out familiar words and essential details on signs, forms and very short messages.
Speaking: Introduce yourself and answer simple questions when the other person helps.
Writing: Enter personal details on a form and write a short greeting.

Try it. Introduce yourself and ask for the price of an item.

ESOL International A1

A2 · Basic user

Routine communication

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Catch key information in short, clear announcements and routine conversations.
Reading: Find practical details in short timetables, menus and everyday messages.
Speaking: Exchange information about familiar activities such as shopping, travel and work routines.
Writing: Write a brief note or message to arrange a meeting or ask for information.

Try it. Read a timetable, ask about a departure and message someone about your plans.

ESOL International A2

B1 · Independent user

Connected communication on familiar topics

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Follow the main points of clearly delivered speech on familiar work, study or leisure topics.
Reading: Understand straightforward texts that describe events, instructions or personal views.
Speaking: Handle common travel situations, describe an experience and give brief reasons for a choice.
Writing: Write a connected message or account about a familiar subject.

Try it. Explain a change of plans, describe what happened and give a reason for your decision.

ESOL International B1

B2 · Independent user

Detailed discussion and argument

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Follow a developed argument when the topic is reasonably familiar, including discussion in your field.
Reading: Identify viewpoints and supporting arguments in articles and reports on concrete or abstract topics.
Speaking: Participate in sustained discussion and explain the advantages and disadvantages of alternatives.
Writing: Develop a clear, detailed essay or report and support a position with relevant reasons.

Try it. Compare two proposals, defend your choice and respond to a counterargument.

ESOL International B2

C1 · Proficient user

Flexible language for demanding contexts

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Follow extended speech and pick up implied connections or attitudes.
Reading: Interpret demanding, longer texts and recognise meaning that is suggested indirectly.
Speaking: Discuss complex ideas fluently and adapt wording and tone to academic, professional or social settings.
Writing: Organise a complex topic clearly and use a style suited to the reader.

Try it. Explain a complex issue to two audiences and adjust the level of detail and tone for each.

ESOL International C1

C2 · Proficient user

Precision and nuance across contexts

See skills and a practice example

Listening: Follow highly demanding speech and notice subtle shifts in emphasis or intent.
Reading: Read complex material across genres and interpret fine distinctions in tone and meaning.
Speaking: Express precise distinctions spontaneously and rephrase smoothly when a point is misunderstood.
Writing: Combine information and arguments from several sources into a coherent, nuanced text.

Try it. Reconcile conflicting accounts from several sources and explain where their assumptions differ.

ESOL International C2

These practice examples illustrate language ability. Ask the exam provider which tasks it uses, and ask the organisation receiving your result which exam and score it accepts.

Council of Europe level descriptions

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