Difference Between TCF Tout Public, TCF DAP, and TCF Canada

If you want to prove your French skills for immigration, education, or personal goals, you’ve probably come across the TCF exam. 

The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF), developed by France Éducation International, is a standardized test that measures the proficiency of non‑native speakers. It’s recognized worldwide and follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

What many don’t realize, though, is that there isn’t just one version of the TCF; each is designed for a specific purpose. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between TCF Tout Public, TCF DAP, and TCF Canada, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Let’s break down each of these tests and review their details: 

What is TCF Tout Public?

TCF Tout Public is the general version of the exam, designed for anyone aged 16 or older who wants to evaluate their French proficiency for non-specific reasons. 

This could include job applications, personal development, or even as a benchmark for language learning progress. TCF Tout Public is a flexible test that many schools and workplaces accept for general purposes.

The exam structure includes three compulsory sections: 

• Listening comprehension: 39 questions, 35 minutes
• Mastery of language structures: 18 questions, 15 minutes
• Reading comprehension: 39 questions, 60 minutes

Optional modules are available for:

• Speaking: 3 tasks, 12 minutes
• Writing: 3 tasks, 60 minutes

The total duration for the compulsory parts is about 1 hour and 50 minutes, and scores are valid for two years. Overall, because TCF Tout Public focuses on everyday French, this version is a good choice for general use.

How Much Does TCF Tout Public Cost? 

The cost of the TCF Tout Public varies by country and test center. In France, compulsory sections usually cost €70–€110, with optional speaking and writing adding about €45–€60 each. A full package can reach €160–€250. 

In Canada, prices are higher, often around CAD 365 for the complete test. Other countries (e.g., Morocco) charge about 1,600 DHS for the general version

What is TCF DAP?

TCF DAP stands for Test de Connaissance du Français - Demande d’Admission Préalable. 

It’s designed for international students applying for preliminary admission to French universities, especially for first‑year bachelor’s programs or architecture schools through the DAP procedure.

If you’re planning to study in France and your application falls under the DAP category (which is common for non‑EU students), this is the exam you’ll need.

The structure is similar to the TCF Tout Public, but with one key difference: a mandatory written expression test. The exam includes listening comprehension, reading comprehension, mastery of language structures, and written expression (60 minutes). There’s no speaking section.

This version focuses on academic French, making sure candidates can manage university‑level coursework. Like other TCF exams, results are valid for two years, and it’s offered at approved centers worldwide.

How Much Does TCF DAP Cost?

The TCF DAP usually costs about €160–€200 in France, with small administrative fees (up to €15). Prices vary by country and test center, but they’re generally in the same range as the TCF Tout Public.

What is TCF Canada?

TCF Canada is one of the top French exams for Canadian immigration. It is designed for people applying for economic immigration or Canadian citizenship. It’s officially recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and aligns with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). 

This version is especially important for programs like Express Entry, where strong language scores can make a big difference in your application.

Unlike the other TCF exams, TCF Canada has four mandatory sections:

• Listening comprehension: 39 questions - 35 minutes
• Reading comprehension: 39 questions - 60 minutes
• Speaking: 3 tasks - 12 minutes
• Writing: 3 tasks - 60 minutes

TCF Canada does not include the mastery of language structures section. The total exam time is about 2 hours 47 minutes, and results remain valid for two years. 

To reflect real‑life use in Canada, the test often includes Canadian contexts, such as Québécois accents in the listening tasks.

How Much Does TCF Canada Cost?

The TCF Canada exam typically costs CAD 350–400 (≈ €240–270) depending on the test center. In France, prices are usually around €160–€200, while in other countries, fees vary but generally fall within the same range.

Key Differences Between TCF Tout Public, TCF DAP, and TCF Canada

To make it easier to compare, here's a breakdown of the main distinctions in a table:

These differences highlight how each version is optimized for its intended use. For instance, TCF Canada requires speaking and writing to evaluate comprehensive communication skills needed for integration, while TCF DAP prioritizes written academic proficiency.

Conclusion

Choosing between TCF Tout Public, TCF DAP, and TCF Canada really depends on your goals, whether you want a general assessment, admission to a French university, or immigration to Canada. 

All three share the same TCF foundation but adjust their sections and focus to meet different needs. The best way to prepare is to practice with official sample tests and, if possible, take courses designed for your target version. 

Whichever exam you choose, doing well can open valuable opportunities in French‑speaking environments. And if you’re unsure which one fits your situation, it’s always wise to check with the relevant authorities or a language advisor before you register.

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