Have You Tried These CEFR English Tests?

@annierose (21936)
United States
January 26, 2026 12:53pm CST
I recently took some CEFR English tests online and wanted to share my experience and get your thoughts. On the British Council EnglishScore test, which assesses grammar, vocabulary, reading and listening and shows your level from A2 up to C1 on the CEFR scale, I got B2 for 25 questions. It gives instant results and you can even get a certificate if you want. Then I tried the EF SET test, which is a free online English test that aligns with the CEFR levels and is widely used as a way to measure reading and listening skills. The version I took had 50 questions for reading and listening, and I got a C1 level result. The EF SET can also give an official certificate you can add to your CV or LinkedIn after you finish the test. So for me, I scored higher in reading than in listening and ended up with a C1 level on the EF SET test. Has anyone else tried either of these CEFR tests online? How did you find them and what were your results? Do you think they are helpful or accurate for understanding your English level? I’d love to hear your experiences!
8 people like this
7 responses
@DianneN (247955)
• United States
26 Jan
I never had nor heard of those tests. Being an American, we have many other standardized testing. If they help you, that’s great!
1 person likes this
@annierose (21936)
• United States
26 Jan
Thanks for sharing, Dianne! Yes, these CEFR tests are more common internationally, but it’s interesting to see how standardized testing differs in the U.S.
1 person likes this
@DianneN (247955)
• United States
26 Jan
@annierose True. Nice to see you
@brokenbee (11925)
• Philippines
31 Jan
I haven't tried it yet.. I think the last English proficiency test that I took was the one included in my college entrance test... Last night, I dreamt that I was taking an exam but I forgot what it was about.. I just remember that I was having a hard tjme and I thought that I won't be able to finish it...
1 person likes this
@sol_cee (38531)
• Philippines
31 Jan
Lol, even your sleep comes with exams now.
@AmbiePam (111862)
• United States
26 Jan
That sounds very extensive! I’ve never taken any kind of English test other than schooling (I guess that includes college, too). I wonder if any of our other Mylotters have. It sounds helpful for a job.
1 person likes this
@annierose (21936)
• United States
26 Jan
You’re right, Amber! These tests are pretty thorough and can definitely give a clearer picture of your English skills beyond school exams. They’re also useful if you ever want to show your level for work or international opportunities.
1 person likes this
@toniganzon (72974)
• Philippines
27 Jan
Several years ago I took a TOEIC test in Bangkok. It was a two set test. One for reading and one for listening. It wasn't online. I took it as a requirement as I was planning to teach in a university there. The result were given a week after and I went to the center to claim it. Perfect score is 990 and I got 980+. My score in both sets were at par.
@RasmaSandra (93731)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
26 Jan
Many of the English As a Second Language sites online are very helpful,
@sol_cee (38531)
• Philippines
31 Jan
Wow, C1! Congrats! Did you do any preparation before taking the tests, or just jump in?
26 Jan
I found the level which nest describes me C2 (Proficient): Can understand virtually everything and express themselves precisely in complex situations.