Compare TORFL levels and CEFR equivalents
Excel in Russian: Complete Guide to Proficiency Tests: Compare TORFL levels and CEFR equivalents
The Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL) levels correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels in the following way:
| TORFL Level | CEFR Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Level (TEL / A1) | A1 | Basic competence to meet elementary communicative needs in everyday limited situations |
| Basic Level (TBL / A2) | A2 | Basic competence for everyday and cultural communication; minimum for Russian citizenship |
| First Certification Level (TORFL-I) | B1 | Intermediate competence for everyday, cultural, educational, and professional communication |
| Second Certification Level (TORFL-II) | B2 | High competence for a wide range of situations including education and profession |
| Third Certification Level (TORFL-III) | C1 | Advanced proficiency for professional activities in linguistics, translation, journalism, etc. |
| Fourth Certification Level (TORFL-IV) | C2 | Proficiency comparable to a native speaker; highest level for advanced professional work |
Thus, TORFL has six levels aligned to the six CEFR levels from A1 to C2. This alignment allows candidates to understand their Russian proficiency corresponding to an internationally recognized framework. 1, 2, 3, 4