This framework helps you identify your current level of bilingualism, whether you’re just starting to understand a second language or confidently using it in public-facing roles.

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Explore your strengths, recognize your progress, and set your next language goal.

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Receptive bilingualism

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This describes someone who understands a second language but does not speak it.

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• I can greet people with Bonjour or Hello.
• I can understand messages if people speak slowly and clearly.
• I can understand basic personal questions.
• I can understand uncomplicated instructions and tasks.
• I can understand a very simple invitation.

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Note: According to some definitions of bilingualism, a person who understands two languages but speaks only one can be considered bilingual.

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Communicative bilingualism

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This describes someone with basic knowledge of a second language who can get by in everyday situations.

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• I can say my name and ask others for theirs.
• I can talk to someone using simple words.
• I can tell time using simple expressions like tomorrow or next week.
• I can name common objects like food, drinks, body parts, or clothing.
• I can give simple instructions such as my name, age, address, etc.

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Functional bilingualism

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This describes someone with practical knowledge of a second language that allows them to function in familiar situations.

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• I can follow meetings and presentations in my areas of experience or interest.
• I can understand someone speaking the second language and respond with basic words.
• I can ask for and give uncomplicated opinions and say whether I agree or disagree in a simple way.
• I can maintain and end face-to-face conversations on familiar or personal topics.
• I can share and compare opinions in conversations with friends.

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Advanced bilingualism (2+)

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This describes someone with very advanced knowledge of a second language, allowing them to be fluent and serve the public in either language.

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• I can understand and take part in everyday conversations.
• I can skim a book or article in my field or interest relatively quickly and assess its relevance to my needs.
• I can give a clear, well-structured presentation on complex subjects in my fields of specialization, developing and supporting my point of view will appropriate justification and examples.
• I can develop a persuasive argument in a well-organized speech, emphasizing key points and providing an appropriate conclusion.
• I have a good understanding of humour, irony, and implicit cultural references.

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