CEFR A2: Elementary

What does CEFR A2 mean?

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.

What can you do at CEFR A2?

At CEFR A2 you can typically do the following:

• Order a meal, buy a train ticket and ask for directions
• Describe your family, your job and your daily routine in simple terms
• Understand the main point of short, clear announcements at a station or airport
• Read short personal letters, menus, timetables and advertisements
• Make and respond to invitations, apologies and suggestions

How long does it take to reach CEFR A2?

Reaching CEFR A2 from a standing start typically takes 180-200 guided learning hours.

A learner at this level generally has an active vocabulary of 1,000-1,500 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 A2?

NativePal generates its content at the level you select, so at CEFR A2 your reading lessons, vocabulary and speaking prompts are pitched here rather than at a generic average.

Reading lessons produce stories written for A2, 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 A2?

CEFR B1 is the next level up. B1 is the CEFR threshold level, where you can cope independently with most situations that arise while travelling, follow clear standard speech on familiar topics, and produce connected text about your experiences, opinions and plans.