Learner profiles

Learner profiles

To pass ISE at CEFR proficiency levels B2, C1, and C2, candidates must be able to demonstrate that they can:

ISE II (CEFR B2)

  • understand the main ideas of complex spoken and written English on both concrete and abstract topics
  • use active and passive vocabularies sufficient to cover a wide range of subjects, including technical topics within his or her field of specialisation
  • interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers of English quite possible without strain for either party — language production is spontaneous and natural
  • explain his or her viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options
  • read, respond to and write clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects

ISE III (CEFR C1)

  • express themselves fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly
  • express themselves using a wide range of complex language structures, vocabulary and functions
  • use a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms
  • use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes
  • recognise and appreciate different registers and degrees of formality
  • read and respond to a wide range of demanding, longer texts
  • produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects, underlining the relevant salient
  • issues, expanding and supporting points of view with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples

ISE IV (CEFR C2)*

  • express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely differentiating finer shades of meaning, even in more complex situations
  • exploit a comprehensive and reliable mastery of a very wide range of complex language structures, vocabulary and functions
  • express themselves using idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms
  • use language effortlessly and appropriately for social, academic and professional purposes
  • control the direction of a spoken interaction and maintain its flow with ease, relating skilfully to the contributions of the listener
  • understand the main points, arguments, inferences,
  • changes in register and emphasis in complex and sometimes unstructured speech, even when delivered at fast native speed
  • read and respond to virtually all forms of the written language including abstract, structurally or linguistically complex texts, appreciating subtle distinctions of style and implicit as well as explicit meaning
  • write clear, smoothly flowing complex texts on a wide range of subjects in an appropriate style and with an effective logical structure

*Note that the exam format for IV (C2) is different.

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