From A2 to B1: A Study Plan for English Tests

A2 and B1 are English levels from the CEFR (Common European Framework). Many students need to move from A2 to B1 for university, work, or immigration.

This guide explains what these levels mean and how to improve.

What is A2 Level?

A2 is called "Elementary." At this level, you can:

• Have simple conversations about daily topics
• Understand short, simple texts
• Write basic sentences
• Talk about yourself, your family, and your work

In test scores, A2 equals:

• IELTS Band 4-4.5
• PTE Score 30-36
• TOEFL Score 32-35

What is B1 Level?

B1 is called "Intermediate." At this level, you can:

• Understand the main points of clear speech
• Handle most travel situations
• Write about familiar topics
• Describe experiences and give reasons for opinions

In test scores, B1 equals:

• IELTS Band 5-5.5
• PTE Score 42-50
• TOEFL Score 42-52

How Long Does It Take?

Moving from A2 to B1 usually takes 3-6 months. This depends on:

• How many hours you study per week
• The quality of your practice
• Your starting vocabulary

If you study 1-2 hours per day, 5 days per week, expect 3-4 months. If you study less, expect 5-6 months.

The Study Plan

Month 1: Build Vocabulary

Focus: Learn 100-150 new words

• Study 10-15 new words per week
• Focus on academic and common words
• Write example sentences for each word
• Review old words every week

Also practice: Easy reading passages without time pressure.

Month 2: Build Reading Skills

Focus: Read faster and understand more

• Practice skimming (finding main ideas)
• Learn to find answers in paragraphs
• Start using a soft timer (25-30 minutes per passage)
• Learn True/False/Not Given strategy

Also practice: Listening Section 1 and 2.

Month 3: Add Listening Skills

Focus: Understand spoken English

• Practice all 4 listening sections
• Learn to predict answers before listening
• Practice taking notes while listening
• Work on understanding different accents

Also practice: Reading with real time limits.

Month 4: Test Practice

Focus: Get ready for real tests

• Take full practice tests
• Practice under real test conditions
• Review all mistakes carefully
• Focus on your weak areas

This Plan Works for All Tests

The skills you learn will help for any English test:

• IELTS Academic or General
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge B1 Preliminary

The reading and listening skills are the same. Only the test format is different.

Start Now

Take our free diagnostic test to find your current level. Then follow the Band 4 to 5 plan for step-by-step guidance.

See also: What Your Score Means