Use this guide to find which level best describes your language ability. If you are uncertain of your level, please complete one of our level tests. We do need to know your approximate level before you book, because some courses for certain levels are not always available, and it enables the schools to plan their teachers' timetables better.

Beginner

I have a very basic understanding and knowledge of the language - perhaps no more than a few key words and expressions. I have no real idea about the grammar, and have a very limited vocabulary.

Beginner Plus

I have some knowledge of the language, which I would like to consolidate and extend. I can introduce myself and can describe the immediate world around me. I have come across different grammatical structures, but am not confident of using them. I have a limited ability to communicate and find it difficult to understand the spoken language.

Elementary

I can produce simple sentences and can formulate and respond to simple questions. I have a basic knowledge of grammatical structures, including different tenses and word order, and have enough vocabulary to 'survive' in predictable situations.

Lower Intermediate

I can understand and use simple structures fairly consistently, and can ask and respond to a wide range of simple questions. I have a reasonable idea of how the tense system works, and have an active vocabulary of around 700 words. I can express myself in familiar contexts, although I still make a quite a lot of mistakes.

Intermediate

I have a good understanding of simple structures, but lack accuracy and do not feel at ease with them just yet. I need to consolidate what I know and I am also ready to learn new and more complex forms. I can express myself in most common situations and hold conversations on a range of topics.

Upper Intermediate

I have a good grasp of all the essential structures and can use them with a reasonable degree of accuracy. Although I have some language gaps and make some errors, I can communicate effectively and appropriately in most situations, including on unfamiliar topics. I am ready to learn more complex forms and more advanced vocabulary.

Advanced

I have a good understanding and knowledge of a wide range of language structures and functions, although I may continue to make minor errors syntactically. I have considerable passive knowledge, but need to expand my active usage. I am ready to learn different ways of expressing ideas, work on the subtle nuances of the language, and expand the range of what I can say and write.

If you are not a beginner and are not sure which level you are, please take the appropriate level test. When you have completed the test, please tell us the following information:

• Your score
• Which level of class you wish to enter
• If you are a previous Cactus student

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Use this key to work out which level you are:

• 0-4 points: Beginners
• 5-9 points: Beginners Plus
• 10-17 points: Elementary
• 18-24 points: Lower Intermediate
• 25-31 points: Intermediate
• 32-37 points: Upper-Intermediate
• 38-40 points: Advanced