Getting started

Levels: from A1.1 to C2

OTO splits the CEFR scale into 21 sub-levels, and each one is an 8-hour course.

How the scale works

• A1, A2, B1, B2 and C1 each have four sub-levels, for example A1.1, A1.2, A1.3 and A1.4.
• C2 is the top step.
• That makes 21 steps from A1.1 to C2.

One sub-level is 8 hours of live one-to-one lessons. So 8 hours take you through one sub-level, and 32 hours through four.

Where do I start?

The free placement test gives you your OTO level, from A1.1 to C2, and recommends a course. When you buy a package, you start at your placement level if the course covers it; if not, you start at the nearest level the course covers. Checkout shows your starting level before you pay.

Each course covers a range of levels, shown on its course page, for example "Levels A1.1 to A1.4".

Take the test on the Placement test page: otocourses.app/en/app/placement

Updated 2026-10-03 · Contact us