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Overview of ESOL levels

This article features an overview of the different ESOL levels and how they compare against other exams in the UK.

ESOL exam comparison
Image: How ESOL exams compare with other UK exams

The table shows how ESOL levels relate to other exams in the UK. Many ESOL providers can offer more information about ESOL levels and advice about how to access other education opportunities.

To find out more about the different qualifications listed in the table, please go to the relevant website below.

National Qualification Framework (NQF)

You can find out more about national qualifications in the UK from the UK Government website.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. For further information on the levels within the CEFR, go to the Council of Europe website.

Scottish Qualifications Authority – SQA (ESOL)

Visit the SQA website for a more detailed breakdown on the SQA framework and information about ESOL in Scotland.

Cambridge – main suite of English

You can find out more by visiting the Cambridge website.

Trinity ISE – Integrated Skills in English exams

You can find out more by visiting the Trinity ISE website.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

You can find out more about IELTS from the British Council website.

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