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CEFR Levels A1–C1 in the Hamza Test: What Your Score Means

What is the CEFR?

CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is the international standard for measuring and comparing someone’s language ability, whatever the language. It is used widely across language tests worldwide, not only for Arabic, so that a person’s level can be compared consistently across countries and across tests.

What are the CEFR levels, and what do they mean?

CEFR divides language ability into six broad levels, from A1 to C2. The Hamza Test itself measures five levels of this range, from the most basic to proficient:

  • A1 (التمهيدي) — Beginner. You understand and can use very basic everyday expressions: introducing yourself, saying simple things about yourself.
  • A2 (المبتدئ) — Elementary. You can communicate in routine, simple situations that need a direct exchange of information about familiar things.
  • B1 (المتوسط) — Intermediate. You can grasp the main points of clear, familiar topics, and express opinions or plans in a simple way.
  • B2 (فوق المتوسط) — Upper intermediate. You can follow the main ideas of complex texts, and communicate with enough fluency that conversation with native speakers takes little effort.
  • C1 (المتقدم) — Proficient. You can understand a wide range of long, demanding texts, and use the language flexibly and effectively for academic and professional purposes.

How are these levels calculated from a Hamza Test score?

The maximum Hamza Test score is 150, split evenly into 30-point bands per level, so every 30 points roughly marks one level, from A1 at the lowest scores up to C1 at the top (150). Read the full test format in What Is the Hamza Test?.

What level do Saudi universities usually require?

It varies by program and university. Some Arabic-medium programs set a specific minimum level, while other programs may not require a Hamza score at all. Check the requirements of your target program on studyinsaudi.sa before applying.

How do you move up a level?

Language ability grows through consistent practice: building vocabulary, getting used to sentence patterns, and working through questions in a similar format. StudiSaudi offers original Hamza-style vocabulary practice to help you measure and train your level before the real test.