CEFR guide
What is level B1?
A complete guide to the 6 English levels (A1 → C2) with clear descriptions, real-life examples and learning goals.
B1IntermediateHandle travel, give opinions, describe experiences.
At B1 you understand the main points of clear input on work, school and leisure; deal with most situations while travelling; write simple connected text on familiar topics and briefly explain opinions and plans.
~350–400cumulative study hours4.0–5.0IELTS550+TOEIC (L+R)
Can do at B1 level
- Describe experiences, events and ambitions
- Give and briefly explain your opinions
- Follow the main points of clear TV programmes and podcasts
- Write emails and paragraphs on familiar topics
- Handle travel situations and complain politely
Real-life situations
A simple interviewTalk about experience, strengths and motivation.
Travel problemsLost luggage, changing rooms, polite complaints.
Telling a storyRetell a trip or a film plot.
Short work emailsRequest leave, arrange meetings, give updates.
Common topics at B1
- Work & career
- Education
- Travel & culture
- Technology
- Environment
- Relationships
- Media
Key grammar points
- Present perfectI have lived here for five years.
- First & second conditionalsIf I had more time, I would learn the guitar.
- Basic passiveThe meeting was cancelled.
- Past continuousI was cooking when you called.
- Relative clausesThe man who lives next door is a pilot.
- Used toI used to play football every day.
Essential vocabulary areas
Feelings & personalityWorkTravelNewsCommon phrasal verbsLinking words