CEFR alignment

Learner profiles

To achieve ISE at CEFR proficiency levels B2, C1, and C2, candidates must be able to demonstrate that they can:

CEFR B2 (ISE II)

• understand the main ideas of complex spoken and written English on both concrete and abstract topics
• use active and passive vocabularies sufficient to cover a wide range of subjects, including technical topics within his or her field of specialisation
• interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers of English quite possible without strain for either party — language production is spontaneous and natural
• explain his or her viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options
• read, respond to and write clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects

CEFR C1 (ISE III)

• express themselves fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly
• express themselves using a wide range of complex language structures, vocabulary and functions
• use a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms
• use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes
• recognise and appreciate different registers and degrees of formality
• read and respond to a wide range of demanding, longer texts
• produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects, underlining the relevant salient
• issues, expanding and supporting points of view with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples

CEFR C2 (ISE IV)

• express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely differentiating finer shades of meaning, even in more complex situations
• exploit a comprehensive and reliable mastery of a very wide range of complex language structures, vocabulary and functions
• express themselves using idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms
• use language effortlessly and appropriately for social, academic and professional purposes
• control the direction of a spoken interaction and maintain its flow with ease, relating skilfully to the contributions of the listener
• understand the main points, arguments, inferences,
• changes in register and emphasis in complex and sometimes unstructured speech, even when delivered at fast native speed
• read and respond to virtually all forms of the written language including abstract, structurally or linguistically complex texts, appreciating subtle distinctions of style and implicit as well as explicit meaning
• write clear, smoothly flowing complex texts on a wide range of subjects in an appropriate style and with an effective logical structure