The paper focuses on the multi-level character of existing or currently developed models for polycrystal deformation. A general multilevel frame is presented, which can be applied to models for the simulation of plastic anisotropy to be implemented in FE codes for the simulation of metal forming processes, or to models for the simulation of deformation textures. A short overview is presented of two-level models ranging from the full-constraints Taylor model to the crystal-plasticity finite element models, including the description of a few recent and efficient models (GIA and ALAMEL). Validation efforts based on experimental cold rolling textures obtained for steel and aluminium alloys are discussed. Finally a recent three-level model which also takes the microscopic level (dislocation substructure) is discussed.