SFI course letters and CEFR levels are different systems. SFI A, B, C and D identify courses in Swedish adult education. CEFR A1–C2 describes language proficiency. Starting or finishing a named course does not automatically prove an exact CEFR level in every skill.
SFI vs CEFR: what are you comparing?
| System | Labels | What the labels tell you |
|---|---|---|
| SFI | Courses A, B, C, D; study paths 1, 2, 3 | Your course and study route within Swedish for immigrants. |
| CEFR | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 | A framework for describing what a learner can do with a language. |
| YKI in Finland | Grades 1–6 | Assessed language skills in an independent test, with an official relationship to CEFR. |
| A school or course certificate | Its own grades and requirements | Evidence defined by that qualification; check what was assessed. |
Is SFI D equivalent to B1?
You may see SFI D compared approximately with B1. For example, Folkuniversitetet’s Swedex FAQ makes that approximate comparison and explains that SFI assesses a specific course while Swedex tests general language skills. Use it as orientation, not as an automatic conversion or proof for an application.
For SFI A, B and C, a simple conversion table can also hide differences in starting point and skills. If you need a CEFR certificate for work or study, ask the receiving organisation which evidence it accepts and arrange the appropriate assessment.
SFI study paths and courses
| Study path | Courses in the path | General orientation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A, B, C, D | Primarily for learners with very short previous schooling. |
| 2 | B, C, D | A route selected according to the learner’s background and needs. |
| 3 | C, D | Primarily for learners accustomed to studying. |
Placement considers your knowledge, circumstances and study experience. Course grading criteria are the same regardless of study path. This description follows Skolverket’s current SFI syllabus; the announced changes to the course structure begin in 2027.
If you are looking to enrol, see how to apply for SFI in Sweden. That guide covers the municipal application route and the separate time-limit rules introduced in 2026.
CEFR levels and the YKI scale
The CEFR framework applies to Swedish, including C2. A1–A2 describes basic use, B1–B2 independent use, and C1–C2 proficient use. A learner’s reading, listening, speaking and writing can develop at different rates. See the Council of Europe’s CEFR descriptors.
| CEFR level | YKI grade | YKI test level |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 1 | Basic |
| A2 | 2 | Basic |
| B1 | 3 | Intermediate |
| B2 | 4 | Intermediate |
| C1 | 5 | Advanced |
| C2 | 6 | Advanced |
This mapping is published by the Finnish National Agency for Education. YKI reports assessments for the subtests you complete; do not substitute an SFI placement letter for a YKI result.
Which Swedish course should I take after SFI?
- Gather your course results and describe what you can currently read, write, understand and say.
- Choose your next goal: everyday communication, further study, an exam or professional language.
- Compare the course outcomes and ask about placement if your skills do not fit neatly into one label.
Our Swedish course comparison links to beginner, intermediate and advanced options. For a test goal, explore Swedish YKI preparation or the C1 Swedish and TISUS course.
More questions about language levels
Does being placed in SFI C mean I already have A2?
No. Placement identifies a suitable course and study path. It does not certify that you have completed the course or reached a particular CEFR level.
Is SVA 3 automatically C1 or C2?
A Swedish as a second language qualification has its own syllabus and assessment requirements. For admission or employment, check the exact qualification requested instead of relying on a one-line CEFR conversion.
How do GCSE grades fit into this?
School qualifications need a separate comparison. Read how GCSE language study compares with CEFR levels for the difference between school grades and proficiency labels.