Why TOEFL uses CEFR now
The 2026 TOEFL redesign aligned its 1–6 band scale to CEFR (the Common European Framework of Reference) — the same A1–C2 system used across Europe and increasingly worldwide by universities, employers, and immigration programs to describe language ability, independent of any one test. So when a program asks for "CEFR B2" or "CEFR C1," it's asking for a general proficiency level, not a TOEFL-specific number.
Quick lookup
- CEFR C2 → TOEFL band 6.0
- CEFR C1 → TOEFL band 5.0–5.5
- CEFR B2 → TOEFL band 4.0–4.5
- CEFR B1 → TOEFL band 3.0–3.5
- CEFR A2 → TOEFL band 2.0–2.5
Full descriptors — what you can actually do at each level — are in our band scores explained guide.
Where "CEFR level required" shows up
- University admissions: most schools now list either a TOEFL band or a CEFR level (or both) — increasingly, "B2 or above" is the phrasing for general undergraduate admission.
- Employer/professional certification: some international employers and licensing bodies specify a CEFR floor (commonly B2) for roles requiring workplace English.
- Visa and immigration programs: several countries' skilled-worker visas set a CEFR (or IELTS-equivalent) minimum rather than a TOEFL-specific number.
If your target lists a CEFR level, not a TOEFL number
Use the lookup above to find your target band, then check whether your program accepts TOEFL directly for that CEFR requirement — most do, since ETS designed the new scale specifically for this kind of cross-test comparison. When in doubt, confirm with the institution before you register for the exam.
Find your current level
A free diagnostic gives you both your estimated TOEFL band and its CEFR equivalent in about 15 minutes.