Do Both TCF and TEF Exams Count For Express Entry?

Yes, both exams are valid for Express Entry and are converted into NCLC/CLB levels for CRS scoring.

Which Exam Is Easier: TEF Canada Or TCF Canada?

TCF Canada is often considered more accessible due to its multiple-choice format, while TEF Canada requires more open-ended responses, especially in Writing and Speaking.

How Many Points Can I Gain From French Proficiency?

Strong French results can add up to **50 CRS points**, especially if combined with English proficiency.

Is TEFAQ Different From TEF Canada?

Yes, TEFAQ is a variant of TEF Canada specifically tailored for Quebec immigration, but TEF Canada itself is also accepted.

What Are The Two French Exams Accepted For Canadian Immigration?

The two exams are **TEF Canada** and **TCF Canada**, both recognized by IRCC, Quebec immigration, and most PNPs.

What Is The Best French Exam for Canadian Immigration?

December 09, 202512 MinutesGlobal Opportunities, Articles

If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, showing strong French skills can give your application a big boost.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts two official French exams: TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Both are recognized for Express Entry, Quebec immigration, and most Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

However, neither exam is “better” than the other; the right choice depends on your strengths, preferences, and how you like to take tests.

If you don’t know which is the best French exam for Canadian Immigration, this guide will walk you through the differences so you can pick the exam that fits you best!

TEF Canada vs. TCF Canada for Canadian Immigration

As we mentioned, the IRCC officially accepts two exams for immigration: TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Let’s compare these two exams and review their differences:

Feature	TEF Canada	TCF Canada
Recognition	Accepted by IRCC, Quebec immigration, and universities	Accepted by IRCC, Quebec immigration, and universities
Structure	Fixed format: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking	Modular format: Listening & Reading mandatory; Writing & Speaking optional
Flexibility	Less flexible (all sections required)	More flexible (choose modules depending on needs)
Difficulty	Slightly more challenging, especially writing	Often seen as more accessible for beginners
Scoring	CEFR levels (A1–C2), converted to NCLC/CLB	Same CEFR → NCLC/CLB conversion
Availability	Widely offered worldwide, especially in Canada	Growing availability, sometimes easier to schedule
Best For	Candidates who are confident in all four skills	Candidates preferring modular testing or a multiple-choice focus

TCF Canada Vs. TEF Canada: Scoring and Immigration Impact

Both exams are converted into Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC), which match the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).

For Express Entry, aim for NCLC 7 or higher in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Higher scores give you more CRS points and improve your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

How to Choose the Right Exam?

As you can see, TCF and TEF have minor differences. Overall:

Choose TEF Canada If

You feel comfortable taking exams on a computer and want results quickly, since the waiting time is usually shorter. TEF Canada is also a good fit if you’re confident with open‑ended tasks in Writing and Speaking, where you need to be creative and express ideas in your own words. Also, TEF is a better language exam for studying abroad.

Choose TCF Canada If

You prefer the option of a paper‑based test (though this depends on the test center) and find multiple‑choice questions easier to manage. TCF Canada is also better suited if you like more structured writing tasks and a test format that feels slightly more academic.

Conclusion

Overall, TEF Canada and TCF Canada are both valid for immigration. Your choice depends on exam format, your strengths, and test center availability.

If you are confident across all skills and prefer a structured, widely recognized exam, TEF Canada may be your best option. If you prefer flexibility, multiple-choice formats, or paper-based testing, TCF Canada could be a better fit.

The most important thing is to get a high score on your test and ultimately get a higher score for your application.