Date of the last update: 08.10.2026
B1, B2, or C1? What level of English does the advanced Matura exam represent? This is a question that comes up frequently, especially among high school graduates who are planning to continue learning English, study abroad, or obtain an international language certificate.
- What Is the CEFR Scale?
- Is the Advanced Matura Exam at B2 Level?
- The Advanced Matura Exam vs. Language Certificates
- Summary
- FAQ
It is generally assumed that the advanced English Matura exam corresponds to B2 level on the CEFR scale, although some tasks may require skills approaching C1 level.
What Is the CEFR Scale?
The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is an international standard used to describe language proficiency. It consists of six levels:
- A1–A2 – basic user
- B1–B2 – independent user
- C1–C2 – proficient user
This scale makes it possible to roughly compare different language exams, both school-based and international.
Is the Advanced Matura Exam at B2 Level?
The advanced Matura exam tests skills corresponding primarily to B2 level. In practice, this means that candidates should be able to use English relatively fluently, understand more complex texts and recordings, and produce coherent and well-developed written responses.
Some tasks may be more demanding and approach C1 level. However, the Matura exam is not a CEFR certification exam. The result of the Matura exam is therefore not equivalent to holding a formal language certificate.
The Advanced Matura Exam vs. Language Certificates
The result of the advanced Matura exam provides a good indication of your English proficiency, but people planning to study abroad or work in an international environment should consider obtaining a separate language certificate.
A B2 First (FCE) certificate would broadly correspond to B2-level skills demonstrated by the Matura exam, while candidates whose abilities are closer to C1 may consider C1 Advanced (CAE). In the case of IELTS, which is often required by universities abroad, B2 level usually falls within the 5.5–6.5 score range, while C1 corresponds roughly to 7.0–8.0.
Despite having a similar level of difficulty, the Matura exam differs from Cambridge exams and IELTS primarily in terms of recognition, as well as the structure and method of assessment. The Matura result is mainly relevant for admission to Polish universities, whereas international certificates are designed to demonstrate language proficiency in a variety of educational and professional contexts around the world. Cambridge English certificates are valid indefinitely, while IELTS results are generally considered valid for two years.
Summary
The advanced English Matura exam corresponds primarily to B2 level on the CEFR scale, with some elements reaching C1. However, it is not a certification exam, but an official assessment of language skills within the Polish education system.
For people planning to continue their education, study abroad, or work in an international environment, the Matura result is a good starting point, but it is not a substitute for a formal language certificate. Depending on your goals and the requirements of a particular university or employer, it may be worth considering a Cambridge certificate (B2 First or C1 Advanced) or taking the IELTS exam – qualifications that are recognized and accepted worldwide.
FAQ
Has the level of the extended Matura changed in recent years?
Yes. Until September 2024, the core curriculum for the extended level assumed B2+, and even C1 for comprehension. Since September 2024, a reduced curriculum has applied, with the expected level set at B2, and B2+ for comprehension.
What CEFR level is the basic English Matura?
Under the current core curriculum, the basic level corresponds to B1, and B1+ for comprehension. As with the extended Matura, the result is not a certificate of that level.
Do universities abroad accept the Matura instead of a certificate?
Some universities accept an English Matura result as proof of language proficiency, usually above a specified percentage. Many, however, require IELTS or a Cambridge certificate. Always check the requirements of the specific university and programme.
Can I take B2 First straight after the extended Matura?
If you did well in the extended Matura, your level usually matches the requirements of B2 First. The format is different, though: the Cambridge exam includes a paired Speaking test, other task types and strict time limits. It is worth practising the format with a mock test before registering.
How can I check whether my level is already C1?
The most reliable way is a placement test covering all four skills, including speaking and writing, or a C1 Advanced mock exam. Your Matura result alone will not settle it, as the extended-level curriculum is set at B2.
