A1
You can understand and use very common everyday expressions and simple phrases for immediate needs. You are able to introduce yourself and other people and can ask and answer questions about personal details, such as where they live, things they have and people they know. You can communicate in a simple way if the other person talks slowly and clearly.
A2
You can understand sentences and common expressions about familiar topics, including very basic personal and family information, shopping, places of interest and work. You can communicate in simple, everyday tasks that require simple and direct exchanges of information on familiar topics. You can describe in simple terms aspects of your past, environment and matters related to your immediate needs.
B1
You are able to understand the main points of clear texts in standard language if they are about familiar topics, whether in work, study or leisure contexts. You can handle most travel situations and join conversations on familiar topics without preparation. You are able to produce simple, coherent texts about familiar topics, or topics in which you have a personal interest. You can describe experiences, events, wishes and aspirations, as well as briefly justifying opinions or explaining plans. This level is required for Finnish citizenship.
B2
This level is often described as professional working proficiency. You are able to express yourself fluently and spontaneously enough to comfortably communicate with other Finnish speakers, including natives. You understand the main ideas of complex texts on concrete or abstract topics, including some technical discussions. You can produce clear, detailed text on many subjects and explain a complex viewpoint on a topic, including expressing advantages and disadvantages. You may still miss subtle nuances or struggle with idiomatic, native-speed language outside your field.