Listening
Catch key information in short, clear announcements and routine conversations.
English Exams / CEFR A2
SCQF-aligned ESOL A2
Routine communication. Explore the four language skills and ask about preparation, exam sessions and results.
CEFR A2 ยท Basic user
What you can practise
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 this. Read a timetable, ask about a departure and message someone about your plans.
These examples describe language ability at this level. Check the current exam specification for exact tasks and timings.
Published study hours
304 hours in total, including 250 guided learning hours, 52 self-study hours and 2 assessment hours.
A1 describes English proficiency on the CEFR scale. Ask for the exact award title and its SCQF register entry if you need proof of a credit-rated qualification.
Before you book
Ask about the current session, fees, delivery options and certificate. If you need the result for an application, confirm that the receiving organisation accepts the exact exam and score.
Published exam information
SCQF ESOL A2 Certificate
Elementary-level English language qualification aligned to SCQF and mapped to CEFR A2.
Qualification Overview
The SCQF ESOL A2 Certificate is an elementary-level English language qualification aligned to the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR A2).
This qualification is structured as a single-unit award and assesses learners across the four core English language skills:
- Reading
- Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
SCQF ESOL qualifications are designed to support learners who wish to develop practical English communication skills and progress confidently through internationally comparable levels, from beginner to proficient user.
Who Is It For?
The SCQF ESOL A2 Certificate is intended for learners who already possess basic English knowledge and wish to build greater confidence and independence in everyday communication.
- Understand frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance
- Communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring direct exchange of information
- Describe aspects of their background, environment, and immediate needs
- Use clear and simple language in everyday situations
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. Learners are advised to have achieved basic English competence equivalent to CEFR A1 or to have undertaken suitable preparation prior to assessment.
Progression Opportunities
Successful completion enables progression to:
- SCQF ESOL B1 (CEFR B1) or equivalent intermediate ESOL qualifications
- Key skills or functional skills qualifications
- Vocational education and training programmes
Assessment
The qualification assesses the following four language skills:
- Reading
- Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Assessment tasks are designed to reflect real-life language use at elementary level and are aligned with CEFR A2 performance descriptors.
Learning Time Allocation
| Component | Hours |
|---|---|
| Guided Learning Hours (GLH) | 250 hours |
| Self-Study (SS) | 52 hours |
| Total Assessment Time (TAT) | 2 hours |
| Total Qualification Time (TQT) | 304 hours (GLH + SS + TAT) |
TAT = Formative Assessment + Summative Assessment. TQT = GLH + SS + TAT.
Grading
- Fail
- Pass
- Merit
- Distinction
Key Features
- SCQF and CEFR aligned
- Single-unit qualification
- Balanced four-skill assessment
- Suitable for learners progressing from A1
- Clear route to B1 progression