European countries use a guideline called the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to determine the level of proficiency of learners of foreign languages. It aims to provide language teachers, trainers & course designers a reference to check their current system and coordinate their efforts to ensure that the real needs of the learners are fully met.
This guideline divides learners in six (6) levels. The first of which is A1 Level or Breakthrough/Beginner.
The A1 level assumes that the learner can understand and use familiar, everyday expressions and very basic phrases; can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has. That the learner can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.