How Is the TEF Speaking Section Scored?

The TEF Speaking section is scored based on your ability to communicate clearly, use appropriate vocabulary, maintain coherence, and respond naturally during the tasks. Examiners evaluate both accuracy and spontaneity in your spoken French.

What Criteria Do Examiners Use in TEF Speaking?

Examiners assess pronunciation, fluency, grammar, vocabulary range, and clarity of expression. They also check how well you interact, justify ideas, and handle follow-up questions in both speaking tasks.

How Many Points Is TEF Speaking Worth?

In TEF Canada, the Speaking section is typically worth **450 points**. Your score depends on performance in both tasks, with higher marks awarded for strong communication, coherence, and language accuracy.

Does Pronunciation Matter in TEF Speaking Scoring?

Yes, pronunciation is an important scoring factor. You don’t need a native accent, but your speech must be clear and understandable. Consistent mispronunciations can reduce your score if they affect comprehension.

How Important Is Fluency for TEF Speaking?

Fluency is highly important because it shows your ability to speak naturally without frequent pauses or hesitation. Smooth, continuous speech helps you score higher, especially in task interaction and overall communication.

How TEF Speaking Is Scored: Complete Guide for TEF Canada

November 22, 202514 MinutesTEF, Articles

The TEF exam (Test d’Évaluation de Français) is an international exam that measures French language ability. All versions of TEF include a Speaking section, but in TEF Canada, the Speaking section (Expression Orale) is especially important because it is required for immigration, citizenship, and professional applications.

This guide explains how the TEF Speaking test works, how scoring is done, and how you can improve your results. First, let’s review the speaking test:

Structure of the TEF Speaking Test

The TEF Oral Expression test takes 15 minutes and has two parts:

Part 1 (5 minutes – Guided Interview): You answer personal questions about your background, interests, or opinions. There is no preparation time.
Part 2 (10 minutes – Structured Monologue): You give your opinion on a topic (such as social issues, technology, or daily life). You must explain your view with arguments, examples, and clear reasoning.

👉 Results come in 4–6 weeks and are valid for two years. Additionally, two independent examiners score your performance, and your final score is the average of their evaluations.

TEF Speaking Scoring System Overview

The TEF Speaking section is scored on a scale from 0 to 699 points. These points are then converted into two widely recognised frameworks:

The CEFR levels (A1–C2), which describe language ability internationally,
The CLB/NCLC levels (1–12), which are used specifically for Canadian immigration and citizenship.

The CEFR scale ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient). For example, someone at A1 can handle very simple daily questions, while a C1 or C2 speaker can argue complex ideas fluently.

The CLB/NCLC scale runs from Level 1 (basic) to Level 12 (advanced), with levels 7–9 often required for immigration programs.

Here’s a simplified view of how scores map across frameworks:

TEF Score (0–699)	CEFR Level	CLB/NCLC Level
0–150	A1 (Beginner)	CLB/NCLC 1–3
151–300	A2 (Elementary)	CLB/NCLC 4–5
301–450	B1 (Intermediate)	CLB/NCLC 6–7
451–600	B2 (Upper Intermediate)	CLB/NCLC 8–9
601–699	C1–C2 (Advanced/Proficient)	CLB/NCLC 10–12

Let’s have a more detailed look at the TEF speaking scoring system:

Score Scale and Equivalencies

Here’s the official scale for TEF Speaking, with mappings to CEFR and CLB/NCLC levels:

TEF Score Range	CEFR Level	CLB/NCLC Level	Description / Immigration Notes
0–180	Below A1	Below 1	Minimal proficiency; rarely meets requirements
181–225	A1	1–2	Basic phrases; absolute beginner level
226–270	A2	3–4	Simple interactions; CLB 4 minimum for citizenship
271–348	B1	5–6	Independent use in familiar contexts; CLB 5 for Federal Skilled Trades
349–450	B2	7–8	Good fluency; CLB 7 required for Express Entry
451–498	B2+	9	Advanced handling of complex topics
499–523	C1	10	Nuanced expression; high immigration points potential
524–549	C1+	10–11	Near-native fluency
550–699	C2	12	Proficient/mastery; maximises CRS points

Depending on your goal, you’ll need a different score:

Express Entry: You need at least CLB 7 (349–450 points) in speaking. Achieving CLB 9 or higher can earn up to 50 extra CRS points if French is your first language.
Citizenship: A minimum of CLB 4 (226+ points) in speaking and listening is enough.

TEF Oral Expression Scoring Criteria

Examiners judge your speaking performance using four equally important criteria. Each one contributes to your final score:

Fluency: Speak smoothly without long pauses. Natural fillers like “c’est-à-dire” are fine.
Pronunciation & Intonation: Clear speech with natural rhythm. Regional accents (Quebec, European) are accepted if easy to understand.
Vocabulary: Use a wide range of words accurately. Avoid repeating the same or overly basic terms.
Grammar & Syntax: Build correct sentences with proper tenses, agreements, and varied structures.

Final Thoughts

The thing about the TEF speaking section is that it’s not about being perfect; it’s about communicating effectively.

Examiners look for candidates who can share opinions clearly, explain their ideas with arguments, and speak with confidence in real‑life situations. To master this section, you can either hire a tutor or speak French to a friend on a daily basis.

You can also try online practice platforms like Mocko, where you can access unlimited questions.

With proper preparation, you can progress from hesitant speaking to fluent French that meets Canada’s immigration standards.