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Level Descriptions and Achievement Scales

Intensive English Program

The Intensive English Program at the Drexel University English Language Center is comprised of eight levels. The curriculum enables students to complete one level during each ten-week term. Promotion depends on proficiency, ongoing and end-of-term evaluations. Students must receive at least 75% satisfactory grade in each of the three core courses to be promoted to the next level.

Pre-Academic Courses

Levels 1 to 4 are considered pre-academic courses in both speaking and writing. Students at this level can meet their most practical needs and limited social demands. They can speak and understand details on familiar topics and respond to personal questions.

  • LEVEL 1: Foundation

    There is a range within this level.

    • Level 1 is a foundation English as a second language course (CEFR Level A1).
    • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.
  • LEVEL 2: Beginner

    There is a range within this level.

    • Level 2 is a beginner English as a second language course (CEFR Level A2).
    • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.
LEVEL 3: High Beginner

There is a range within this level.

  • Level 3 is a high-beginner English as a second language course (CEFR Level A2+).
  • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.
LEVEL 4: Low Intermediate

There is a range within this level.

Academic Readiness Courses

Levels 5 to 8 are considered academic readiness courses which prepare learners for the tasks necessary for participating in a university environment.

LEVEL 5: Low Intermediate Plus

There is a range within this level.

  • Level 5 is a low-intermediate plus English as a second language course (CEFR Level B1+).
  • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.

LEVEL 6: Intermediate

There is a range within this level.

  • Level 6 is an intermediate English as a second language course (CEFR Level B2).
  • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.

LEVEL 7: High Intermediate

There is a range within this level.

  • Level 7 is a high-intermediate English as a second language course (CEFR Level B2+).
  • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.
LEVEL 8: Advanced

There is a range within this level.

  • Level 8 is an advanced English as a second language course (CEFR Level C1).
  • Description of Outcomes – Download PDF.

CEFR — Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Levels A1 to C1

For more information about CEFR proficiency levels A1 to C1 please email elc@drexel.edu.

Learn more about CEFR