Reach C1 (Advanced) in a Language
52 weeks · 3 milestones
Reach C1 advanced proficiency in your target language. At this level you can understand a wide range of demanding texts and speak fluently without obvious searching for expressions. Proof requires a recorded unscripted conversation with a native speaker — no app scores accepted.
Milestone map
Milestone map
3 milestones
C1 writing is distinguished from B2 by lexical sophistication, register appropriateness, and structural complexity rather than just length. An essay or analytical piece written directly in the target language — without translation tools or AI writing assistance — and then critiqued by a native or near-native speaker reveals exactly where your production reaches C1 and where it still reads as advanced B2. The written feedback document is as important as the essay itself.
Proof required
Share your essay or analytical piece (600+ words, written directly in the target language on an abstract topic you chose). Share the written feedback from a native or near-native speaker (C1+ in the target language) naming at least three specific phrases or constructions that could be more natural or idiomatic, and at least one structural or register observation. Write 100 words on what you plan to revise based on this feedback.
What gets checked
- Essay is 600+ words on an abstract topic that requires analysis or argument — a description of facts or events is not sufficient; interpretation, comparison, evaluation, or argument is required
- Feedback names specific phrases or constructions in your text — general praise or vague suggestions ('a bit unnatural in places') does not meet the standard
- Feedback reviewer is a native speaker or a verified C1+ speaker of the target language — feedback from a fellow learner at the same level is not valid
Resources
Enroll free to unlock learning resources →Mastery
Lang-8 / HiNative — grammar and naturalness corrections
Mastery check: after revising based on the M1 feedback, post the revised version to HiNative and ask whether any phrases still sound non-native; if the number of corrections drops significantly between the first and revised versions, you have measurable C1-level improvement
Unlocks after completing Foundation + Depth