CEFR A1: Beginner

What does CEFR A1 mean?

A1 is the first CEFR level, where you can introduce yourself, ask and answer simple questions about personal details, and handle basic everyday needs using short memorised phrases, provided the other person speaks slowly and helps you.

What can you do at CEFR A1?

At CEFR A1 you can typically do the following:

• Introduce yourself and say where you live, who you know and what you own
• Ask and answer simple questions about personal details when people speak slowly
• Order food and drink and pay for shopping using set phrases
• Fill in a hotel form with your name, nationality and address
• Understand a short written notice, sign or simple message

How long does it take to reach CEFR A1?

Reaching CEFR A1 from a standing start typically takes 90-100 guided learning hours.

A learner at this level generally has an active vocabulary of 500-700 words (commonly cited estimate).

These are guides, not guarantees: prior languages, study intensity and how much you speak all move the number substantially.

How do you practise at CEFR A1?

NativePal generates its content at the level you select, so at CEFR A1 your reading lessons, vocabulary and speaking prompts are pitched here rather than at a generic average.

Reading lessons produce stories written for A1, with every word tappable for a translation and a comprehension quiz at the end. Vocabulary lessons and the spaced-repetition flashcards draw on words appropriate to the level, and Speaking Practice scores your pronunciation on individual sounds, stress and rhythm, fluency and connected speech.

What comes after CEFR A1?

CEFR A2 is the next level up. A2 is the second CEFR level, where you can handle routine exchanges about familiar matters such as shopping, family, work and local geography, describing your background in simple terms and managing short social conversations.