K–12 English CEFR Benchmark for Natives and Language Learners at AGI
Kindergarten
5–6
Pre-A1 / A1
Understand simple classroom instructions, basic vocabulary
Grade 1
6–7
A1
Speak in simple sentences, recognize common words
Grade 2
7–8
A1–A2
Read short stories, write simple sentences
Grade 3
8–9
A2
Understand lessons, write short paragraphs
Grade 4
9–10
A2+
Explain ideas and follow classroom discussions
Grade 5
10–11
B1 (Target)
Read chapter books, write organized paragraphs
Grade 6
11–12
B1
Participate in discussions, write short essays
Grade 7
12–13
B1+
Understand academic vocabulary and lectures
Grade 8
13–14
B2 (Target)
Write essays, analyse texts, present ideas
Grade 9
14–15
B2
Handle academic reading and structured writing
Grade 10
15–16
B2+
Research, debate topics, interpret literature
Grade 11
16–17
B2–C1
Write research papers, complex presentations
Grade 12
17–18
C1 (Ideal Graduation Level)
University-level reading and academic writing
Important Notes for Second-Language Learners
If students do not speak English at home, they may be:
½ to 1 CEFR level lower in early grades
but they usually catch up by middle school if immersion is consistent.
Example:
Native English CEFR
ESL Student Typical
Grade 5
B1
A2+ / B1
Grade 8
B2
B1+ / B2
Grade 12
C1
B2 / C1-C2
Common Benchmarks Used by International Schools.
Many American international schools use these targets:
Elementary graduation (Grade 5): B1
Middle school graduation (Grade 8): B2
High school graduation (Grade 12): B2–C1-C2
These levels match expectations for:
University preparation for SAT.
International exams
Academic writing ability and English Mathematics
Connection to International Exams
These CEFR levels align approximately with well-known exams:
CEFR
Example Exams
A1
Beginner English tests
A2
Elementary English certification
B1
Intermediate academic English
B2
Upper-intermediate / university readiness
C1-C2
Advanced academic English
The realistic policy for natives is:
Grade 5: Minimum B1
Grade 8: Minimum B2
Grade 12: Minimum B2 (C1 preferred)
Students that do not hit these benchmarks are considered language learners and that means they could need assistance or extra lessons or accommodations to get to the levels that would make them university ready. We use the Anglia Examinations England assessments as a high-quality standard, and it allows students to success with the proven 10 Step To program. www.angliamorocco.org
www.anglia.org