Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can reconstruct information and arguments from different spoken and written sources, presenting them in a coherent, summarised presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognise implicit meanings. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on topics of some complexity, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, articulation and cohesion.

Can understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, even if they are of a technical nature provided they are within his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with native speakers with a sufficient degree of fluency and spontaneity to ensure that communication is effortless for both partners. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure and work-related situations. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is used. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences, events, wishes and aspirations and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions or plans.

Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. basic information about him/herself and his/her family, shopping, places of interest, occupations, etc.). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar or routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background and environment as well as matters related to his/her immediate needs.

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and simple sentences aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask for and give basic personal information about home, possessions and people he/she knows. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to cooperate.