CEFRhub vs EF SET — Comparison (2026)
EF SET and CEFRhub both map results to the CEFR framework, but they take fundamentally different approaches. EF SET is a free multiple-choice English test, while CEFRhub analyses your actual language productions using AI.
This comparison covers what each tool does well, where each falls short, and which one fits your needs.
What Each Tool Is Designed For
EF SET
EF SET (EF Standard English Test) is a free online English proficiency test developed by EF Education First. It uses multiple-choice questions to assess reading and listening comprehension. The full test takes about 50 minutes and produces a score mapped to the CEFR scale (A1–C2). EF SET is widely used for self-assessment and is available to anyone at no cost.
EF SET does not assess speaking or writing — it only measures receptive skills through MCQ items. The result is a numeric score and a CEFR level, without detailed competency breakdowns.
CEFRhub
CEFRhub is an AI-powered language assessment platform that analyses written and oral productions in real time. Instead of answering quiz questions, you submit your own text or audio, and the AI evaluates it against 1,800+ official CEFR 2020 descriptors. Results include a detailed competency breakdown covering linguistic, pragmatic, and phonological dimensions.
Ready to assess your CEFR level?
Upload a text or record audio to get your detailed AI-powered CEFR evaluation report in minutes.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | EF SET | CEFRhub |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free tier available, Pro from $49/mo |
| Method | Multiple-choice questions | AI analysis of your productions |
| Skills Assessed | Reading, Listening only | Writing and Speaking (productive skills) |
| Languages | English only | English, French (more coming) |
| CEFR Mapping | A1–C2 | A1–C2 with sub-levels (A2.1, B1.2, etc.) |
| Result Speed | Immediate | Under 5 minutes |
| Report Detail | Score + CEFR level | Full competency breakdown (linguistic, pragmatic, phonological) |
| Oral Assessment | No | Yes (upload audio or record live) |
Why Choose CEFRhub
- Productive skill assessment: CEFRhub evaluates what you can actually produce — your writing and speech — rather than testing recognition through multiple-choice items. This gives a more complete picture of real-world language ability.
- Detailed competency analysis: Every report breaks down linguistic range, pragmatic competence, and phonological control with specific CEFR descriptor references, not just a single score.
- Sub-level precision: CEFRhub reports sub-levels (e.g., B1.2, B2.1) that help track incremental progress, rather than broad A1–C2 bands.
- Bilingual support: CEFRhub supports both English and French assessment, while EF SET is English-only.
Why EF SET Has Strengths
- Completely free: EF SET is 100% free with no limitations. No account required for the quick test. This makes it ideal for casual self-assessment with zero commitment.
- Receptive skills coverage: EF SET tests reading and listening comprehension — skills that CEFRhub does not assess (CEFRhub focuses on productive skills only).
- Established benchmark: Developed by EF Education First with large-scale psychometric validation, EF SET is a widely recognised reference for English receptive proficiency.
Does EF SET test speaking or writing?
No. EF SET only assesses reading and listening through multiple-choice questions. It does not evaluate productive skills (speaking or writing). If you need a productive skills assessment, CEFRhub is designed specifically for that.
Is EF SET really free?
Yes, EF SET is completely free. There is a 15-minute quick check and a 50-minute full test, both at no cost. CEFRhub also offers a free tier, though advanced features require a paid plan.
Can I use both tools together?
Yes. EF SET and CEFRhub assess complementary skill sets. You could use EF SET for reading and listening, and CEFRhub for writing and speaking, to get a full picture of your CEFR level across all four skills.
Does CEFRhub issue an official certification like EF SET?
Neither tool issues an officially recognised certification. EF SET provides a score certificate, and CEFRhub provides detailed assessment reports. Neither replaces formal certifications like Cambridge or IELTS for official purposes.
Which tool is better for tracking progress over time?
CEFRhub's sub-level reporting (e.g., B1.1 to B1.2) and detailed competency breakdowns make it better suited for tracking incremental progress. EF SET's broad CEFR bands are less sensitive to small improvements.