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Study abroad language requirements

If a university has a language requirement, this information will be available in the Host University Catalogue.

Most universities measure language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR). Because the CEFR aims to compare language levels across different countries’ school systems, it doesn’t correlate directly to GCSEs and A Levels, so it’s important to read a description of the different CEFR levels on the Europass website.

CEFR level approximate equivalent qualifications

CEFR level A1

  • FLTU module equivalent: Beginnner 

CEFR level A2

  • FLTU module equivalent: Elementary 
  • GCSE/A-level equivalent: GCSE grades A* to C

CEFR level B1

  • FLTU module equivalent: Lower Intermediate
  • GCSE/A-level equivalent: AS-level A* to C

CEFR level B2

  • FLTU module equivalent: Upper Intermediate
  • GCSE/A-level equivalent: A-level

CEFR level C1

  • FLTU module: Advanced

CEFR level C2

  • FLTU module: Advanced Plus
  • Approzimate equivalence: Near-native fluency

At the end of your second year at Leeds (level 2), you should be comfortably at B1 level or higher (FLTU lower intermediate). Some universities may have higher or lower language requirements, so it’s important that you check before applying.  

Demonstrating your language proficiency 

If you apply to a university that teaches in another language, you must be prepared to demonstrate your language competency by submitting evidence in your application to the study abroad programme. As part of the online application, you will be asked to do three things:

1. State your self-assessed CEFR level (see the Europass website for CEFR level descriptions).

2. Submit one of the following pieces of evidence to demonstrate your language proficiency:

  • Evidence of your language level in the form of GCSE, A-Level, AS Level Certificates or equivalent.
  • If you have completed a language discovery module at the University of Leeds, you must submit your year 1 result with details on the Languages for All (FLTU) module you have completed.
  • Any certificates confirming you have completed a language course at a private language provider. 

3. Give details of your plans to improve your language competency before departure.   

4. On the online application form, you will also have the opportunity to provide any details you would like us to take into consideration when assessing your language level (for example, you are bilingual). If you have any questions on language levels and language evidence needed to be able to apply to study abroad at selected partner universities, please book an appointment with a member of the Study Abroad team. 

If you need to brush up on a language before you study abroad, see how you can improve your language skills.

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