Levels

The American Language Program provides instruction in eight levels of English proficiency from A2 to C2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

• Level 2 is pre-intermediate level ability (A2 CEFR)
• Level 9 is high advanced (C2 CEFR)

The ALP does not teach beginners (level 0, level 1). If you speak no English, or speak just basic English, the ALP is not the right program for you.

Level 2 pre-intermediate students must be CEFR A2 level before coming to the ALP and be able to: 

• communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters; handle short social exchanges; describe in simple terms family and other people, living conditions, educational background and work
• write short simple notes and messages relating to matters in area of immediate needs.
• understand phrases and high frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance; catch the main point in short simple messages and announcements. 
• read short simple texts; find specific information in simple everyday material; understand short, simple personal letters. 

If you cannot do these things in English, you are not ready for the ALP. 

Applicants scoring below level 2 on the Oxford online placement exam will not be admitted. All students are re-tested when they arrive.

If a student is too low for our program—meaning they cannot understand the class and cannot participate - they will not be able to continue. We will give a 100% tuition refund and help with a transfer to another school.

For questions about ALP levels, contact alptest@columbia.edu.

ALP Levels, the Common European Framework and the Oxford Online Placement Test.

The ALP uses the Oxford Online Placement Test (OOPT) as part of the admissions process.

The chart below shows the approximate OOPT scores for initial placement into the eight ALP levels, and also how ALP levels relate to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) proficiency scale. It is based on internal research conducted by the program and is for information purposes only. 

Comparison Table