Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)
TOEFL® Junior™ scores are mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) so you can use them for international benchmarking of your students' English proficiency levels.
The CEFR is a widely-used tool for understanding different stages of language learning. It covers six proficiency levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2, with C2 being the highest level. The performance descriptors for each section of the TOEFL Junior tests are adapted from the CEFR level descriptors to reflect the TOEFL Junior test content and the age of the test takers.
In 2010, a standard-setting study was conducted by ETS researchers to map TOEFL Junior Standard scores to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The purpose of the study was to provide policymakers with recommended minimum scaled scores (cut scores) for the Listening Comprehension, Language Form and Meaning, and Reading Comprehension sections. Because the TOEFL Junior test is now being rolled out in two testing modes, the TOEFL Junior Standard test (paper-based) and the TOEFL Junior Comprehensive test (computer-based), a second mapping study was conducted in 2012 to identify the minimum scores on the TOEFL Junior Comprehensive test that correspond to each level of the CEFR. Further research was also conducted employing equipercentile equating of the Reading and Listening measures of the TOEFL Junior Comprehensive test to their corresponding TOEFL Junior Standard scores. These additional studies allow ETS to align the test scores and the CEFR cut scores for both TOEFL Junior tests.
The revised recommended TOEFL Junior Standard cut scores for CEFR Levels A2, B1 and B2 are shown below, starting October 2012:
| Sections | CEFR Level A2 | CEFR Level B1 | CEFR Level B2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening Comprehension | 225–245 | 250–285 | 290–300 |
| Language Form and Meaning | 210–245 | 250–275 | 280–300 |
| Reading Comprehension | 210–240 | 245–275 | 280–300 |
TOEFL Junior Certificates of Achievement
The TOEFL Junior program also offers certificates of achievement based on scores and CEFR levels that you can award to your students. It's one way to provide students and parents with a sense of accomplishment.
Learn more about how you can prepare your students for success on the TOEFL Junior Tests.
Start using the TOEFL Junior tests in your program.
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