How to add a language certificate to your CV

A language certificate on a CV tells an employer your exact proficiency level rather than leaving them to interpret a vague self-description. This guide explains where to place it, how to format it, and what employers do with the information.

Where to put a language certificate on your CV

Language certificates belong in one of two places depending on how relevant languages are to the role.

If languages are central to the job, a customer service role, a sales position at an international company, or any role explicitly requiring a language, create a dedicated Languages section near the top of your CV, just below your work experience or skills summary.

If languages are supplementary, useful but not the main requirement, include them in an Education or Additional Skills section near the bottom.

How to format a language entry

Use the CEFR level rather than vague terms like "conversational," "good," or "fluent." These mean different things to different people. CEFR levels are internationally recognised and unambiguous.

A clear format:

Note "self-assessed" for levels without a certificate, this signals honesty and distinguishes certified levels from estimated ones.

What level to list

List your actual certified level. If your certificate says B2, write B2. Do not round up. A candidate who lists C1 and interviews at B2 creates a problem for themselves, the gap becomes visible immediately in any language-based task or conversation.

If the job requires B2 and you have a B1 certificate, you have two options: get a certificate that reflects your actual level after improving, or list B1 and explain in a cover letter that you are actively working toward B2.

Do employers check certificates

Some do, particularly for roles where language is a core skill. Checking takes about 10 seconds with a verifiable certificate, the employer enters the code from your PDF at the verification page and sees your name, level, score, and date.

Employers who do not check at the screening stage may still check before an offer, particularly for senior or client-facing roles. Having a verifiable certificate removes any doubt.

Adding the certificate to LinkedIn

LinkedIn has a Licences and Certifications section under your profile. Add your language certificate there with:

Name: English Proficiency Certificate (B2)
Issuing organisation: Examinizer
Issue date: May 2026
Credential ID: your 12-character certificate code

You can also paste the verification URL in the credential URL field so anyone viewing your profile can check the certificate directly.

FAQ

John Jason

Head Manager

Oversees test development, certification standards, and platform quality at Examinizer. Focused on making language assessment accessible and verifiable worldwide.