It takes approximately 200 guided learning hours for a language learner to progress from one level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to the next.
For example, a candidate who has passed B2 First (previously known as Cambridge English: First), at level B2 on the CEFR, might need approximately 200 hours of lessons and supervised study to prepare for the C1 Advanced (previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced), which is aligned to level C1 on the CEFR.
However, there are a number of factors that can affect how long it will take to increase your level of English, including:
* your language learning background
* the intensity of your study
* your age
* the amount of study/exposure outside of lesson times
If you want to find out more, please see this blog post, which includes a link to a research report:
How long does it take to learn a language?
The table below suggests how many guided learning hours you might need to reach each level of the CEFR. These figures are intended as a guideline only. You may require more or less time and support depending on your own needs.
Common European Framework Guided Learning Hours (from beginner level)
The numbers of hours shown in the table below are cumulative (they do not refer to progressing from one level to the next). For example, it takes approximately 700–800 hours to reach C1 from being a complete beginner.
CEFR Level Cambridge English Exam Number of Hours (approximate)
C2 C2 Proficiency – previously known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) 1,000—1,200
C1 C1 Advanced – previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) 700—800
B2 B2 First – previously known as Cambridge English: First (FCE) 500—600
B1 B1 Preliminary – previously known as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET) 350—400
A2 A2 Key – previously known as Cambridge English: Key (KET) 180—200
A1 A1 Starters/Movers – previously known as Cambridge English Starters/Movers (YLE) 90—100