What does CEFR stand for?

CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It was published by the Council of Europe in 2001.

What is a good CEFR level for work?

B2 is the level most employers describe as professional proficiency. C1 is expected for roles requiring fluent communication. B1 is sufficient for jobs with limited language requirements.

How long does it take to reach B2?

According to the Council of Europe, reaching B2 from zero requires approximately 500 to 600 hours of study for English.

Is CEFR recognised internationally?

Yes. CEFR is used across Europe, and its levels are referenced by employers and institutions worldwide, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Can I test my CEFR level for free?

Yes. Examinizer offers free 25-question language tests for 13 languages. Results are instant. A PDF certificate with a verification code costs $8 (incl. EU VAT).

How to Add a Language Certificate to LinkedIn

Adding a language certificate to LinkedIn takes about two minutes. The result is a visible, verifiable credential that recruiters can check without contacting you. This guide covers where to add it, what to write, and how to make it as useful as possible.

Where to add the certificate on LinkedIn

LinkedIn has a dedicated section for certificates: Licences and Certifications. You find it by scrolling to the bottom of your profile and clicking "Add section," then selecting "Licences and Certifications" from the list. If you have already added certifications before, you will see an "Add" button in the existing section.

Do not put language certificates only in the Skills section. Skills on LinkedIn are self-reported and carry no verification. The Licences and Certifications section allows you to add a credential ID and a verification URL, which turns your certificate into something a recruiter can actually check.

What to fill in, field by field

Name: write the test name and your level. Example: "English Proficiency Certificate. B2" or "German Language Certificate. C1". Including the CEFR level in the name means recruiters see the level immediately without clicking through.

Issuing organisation: Examinizer

Issue date: the month and year shown on your certificate PDF.

Expiration date: leave blank. Examinizer certificates do not expire.

Credential ID: your 12-character certificate code from the PDF (format: EX-XXXX-XXXX).

Credential URL: https://examinizer.net/verify/, this is the page where anyone can enter your code and verify the certificate.

Adding language skills to your profile

After adding the certificate, also add the language as a skill. Go to the Skills section, click Add skill, and type the language name. LinkedIn will suggest options, choose the most relevant one, for example "Business English," "German Language," or "Spanish."

LinkedIn's algorithm uses skills to match profiles to job searches. A recruiter searching for "B2 English" or "German speaker" is more likely to find your profile if you have the language listed as a skill alongside the certificate.

Making the most of the certificate on your profile

In your About section or in a job description, you can mention your language level with a reference to the certificate. Something like: "Certified B2 English (Examinizer, 2026), comfortable with client communication, reports, and meetings in English."

This gives recruiters the key information upfront rather than requiring them to scroll to the Licences section.

Get a certificate you can add to LinkedIn today

Free test. Instant result. PDF certificate with verification code for $8 (incl. EU VAT).

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FAQ

Where do I add a language certificate on LinkedIn? ▾

Add it in the Licences and Certifications section. Go to your profile, click Add section, select Licences and Certifications, and fill in the details including the credential ID and verification URL.

What should I write in the LinkedIn certification name field? ▾

Write the test name and your CEFR level. Example: English Proficiency Certificate. B2. This makes it clear to recruiters what the certificate represents without them needing to click through.

Can recruiters verify my language certificate from LinkedIn? ▾

Yes, if you add the verification URL in the Credential URL field. The recruiter clicks the link, enters your certificate code, and sees your name, level, score, and date confirmed.

Should I also list my language level in the LinkedIn Skills section? ▾

Yes. Add the language as a skill so LinkedIn's algorithm includes you in relevant searches. The certification in the Licences section provides the verifiable proof behind the skill claim.

Does adding a language certificate to LinkedIn help with job applications? ▾

Yes. Recruiters who search for candidates with specific language skills will find your profile more easily. A verifiable certificate also gives them confidence that your stated level is accurate.

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