Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
The CEFR is the international standard for describing language proficiency, published by the Council of Europe. It underpins English qualification frameworks worldwide — including the TIE exam used in Ireland.
TIE (Test of Interactive English) — the English language test accepted for visa and residency applications in Ireland — uses the CEFR as its reference framework. The official TIE Oral Test scoring rubric, reproduced in full on this page, is organised directly by CEFR level.
The Six CEFR Levels
Click any level to see the official self-assessment descriptors across all five skill areas. Levels are grouped into three tiers: Basic (A), Independent (B), and Proficient (C).
Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
I can understand extended speech and lectures and follow even complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar. I can understand most TV news and current affairs programmes. I can understand the majority of films in standard dialect.
About the CEFR Self-Assessment Grid
The descriptors shown are taken verbatim from the Council of Europe's official CEFR self-assessment grid. They describe what a learner can do at each level, not how they perform in a test. TIE examiners use a separate but aligned rubric — reproduced in full in the "TIE Oral Rubric" tab — to score candidates during the oral examination.