Reviewed by Tim Hittinger, ICAO examiner (A-126-LPE)What does ICAO Level 6 mean?
Level 6 is called Expert. You communicate effortlessly, precisely and naturally in almost all situations – on unfamiliar topics, under time pressure or when something unexpected happens. You choose your words with nuance and adapt tone and pace to the situation.
Do I have to sound like a native speaker?
No. The ICAO Rating Scale does not require you to sound like a native speaker at Level 6. Pronunciation, stress, rhythm and intonation may be influenced by your first language or a region – what matters is that they almost never interfere with understanding. An audible accent is no obstacle to Level 6.
What is expected at Level 6
- Pronunciation: almost never interferes with understanding, even if an accent is audible.
- Structure: basic and complex sentence patterns consistently well controlled.
- Vocabulary: broad, precise and idiomatic – for familiar and unfamiliar topics.
- Fluency: natural and effortless, even at length; pace is used deliberately, for example for emphasis.
- Comprehension: accurate in almost all contexts, including linguistic and cultural subtleties.
- Interactions: effortless, with a feel for verbal and non-verbal cues.
How Level 6 is determined
You take the open Level 4–6 test. Two examiners rate all six criteria individually. Your overall level is the lowest individual rating: you receive Level 6 if all six criteria are at Level 6. If one criterion only reaches Level 5, the result is Level 5 – valid for 6 years.
You don’t need an existing Level 4 or 5 to go for Level 6. That applies to initial tests as well as renewals.
How long is Level 6 valid?
FCL.055 (c) requires periodic re-evaluation for Levels 4 and 5 – but not for Level 6. Once entered in the language endorsement, no repeat test after a fixed period is required. Outside the EASA system, however, other rules may apply, for example when a licence is recognised by a non-EASA state. More about validity
Tips for Level 6
- Speak naturally, not from memory. Rehearsed phrases stand out – spontaneous, precise answers convince.
- Show range. Use nuance, comparisons and the occasional idiom where it fits.
- Hold longer turns. In the interview, your answers can be detailed.
- React to details. Pick up on the examiner’s questions and cues.
- Stay precise on the radio. Even at Level 6, correct read-backs and accurate listening in ATIS and ATC tasks count.
Frequently asked questions about Level 6
What are my chances of Level 6?
That depends entirely on your performance in all six criteria – there is no serious prediction without a conversation. You get an honest assessment in the training or in the 20-minute PreCheck.
I already have Level 5 – is Level 6 worth it?
If you feel very confident: yes. With Level 6, periodic re-evaluation no longer applies. If you don’t reach Level 6, you again receive the level that matches your performance.
Will Level 6 also be entered in a Swiss licence?
FOCA recognises language tests taken abroad if the procedure is approved by the authority there. Details on our page for Swiss licences.