A1 and A2 are both labelled "beginner", but the jump between them is bigger than it looks. Knowing the difference helps you set the right goal — and recognise your progress.
A1 — your first survival kit
At A1 you can introduce yourself, ask and answer very simple questions, and handle basic needs: greetings, numbers, shopping, ordering, directions. Sentences are short and present-tense.
A2 — handling everyday life
At A2 you can talk about your routine, the recent past, travel and work, and manage common everyday situations on your own. You start using past tenses, more connectors, and a much wider vocabulary.
The main gaps between them
- Tenses: A1 lives in the present; A2 adds the past.
- Length: A1 is short phrases; A2 strings ideas together.
- Range: A2 covers far more topics and situations.
How to know you've reached A2
You can describe what you did at the weekend, make a simple plan with someone, and get through a shop, café or station without rehearsing every line.
A1 gets you noticed. A2 gets you by. B1 gets you talking.
Move up level by level
Our courses take you through each level with clear "can-do" goals. See pricing by level or start free.