What’s the main difference between the TEF and TCF exams?

Both the **TEF** and **TCF** are French language proficiency tests, but they differ in their format and purpose: - **TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français)** is typically used for **immigration**, **study**, or **work** purposes in French-speaking countries. It offers a **flexible structure**, allowing candidates to choose which sections to take based on their goals (e.g., listening, reading, speaking). - **TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)**, on the other hand, is more widely recognized for **academic** purposes and offers a **standardized test format** that’s usually required by universities or institutions in French-speaking countries. It is more focused on assessing overall language proficiency according to the **CEFR** levels.

What sections are included in the TEF and TCF exams?

- **TEF**: The TEF exam can include several sections, and you can select which ones to take based on your needs: Depending on your needs (immigration, university admission, etc.), you might not have to take every section. - **Listening comprehension** - **Reading comprehension** - **Written expression** - **Oral expression** - **TCF**: The TCF exam has a **standardized format** with fixed sections: All sections are mandatory for candidates taking the TCF for **academic purposes** or **general proficiency certification**. - **Listening comprehension** - **Reading comprehension** - **Grammar and vocabulary** - **Written expression** - **Oral expression**

Which exam should I take if I want to study in France?

If your goal is to **study in France**, it typically depends on the requirements of the **institution** you’re applying to: - **TCF** is often required for **university admission** or **academic programs** in France, as it is recognized by French universities and higher education institutions as an official measure of your French language skills. - **TEF** can also be used for university admission in certain cases but is more commonly needed for **immigration purposes** (e.g., **Canada**, **Quebec**, **France's long-stay visa requirements**). It’s a good idea to check with your **target institution** to see which exam they require.

What’s the scoring system for the TEF and TCF?

Both exams use a **CEFR-based scoring system**, but their approaches to scoring vary slightly: - **TEF**: The TEF uses a **points-based system** where each section is scored individually. Your final score is calculated based on your performance in the different sections you’ve chosen to take. For instance, the listening comprehension section is scored from **0-360**, and the written and oral expression sections are scored separately, often with a final grade ranging from **A1** to **C2** depending on your results. - **TCF**: The TCF provides scores for each section based on the **CEFR scale** (A1 to C2). Each section is scored out of 25 points, and the overall result gives you a detailed profile of your proficiency in listening, reading, grammar, writing, and speaking. Both exams are valid for **2 years**, so the scores are considered **time-sensitive**.

TEF vs TCF: Which French Test Should You Choose?

November 09, 202518 MinutesArticles, Articles

Learning French is a beautiful adventure, but at some point, you’ll probably need an official certificate to prove your level. For most people today, the choice comes down to two exams: the TEF and TCF. Both are recognized worldwide, especially for Canadian immigration, Québec selection, French naturalisation, and long-term residency in France.

So, which one’s right for you? This guide breaks down the differences, requirements, and tips to help you decide.

1. What Are TEF and TCF Exams and Who Runs Them?

TEF and TCF are official French proficiency exams. The version you choose depends on your goal, immigration to Canada, applying for French citizenship, or studying at a university. Here's a breakdown:

TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)

TEF Canada → Required for Canadian federal immigration and Québec immigration.
TEF IRN (Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité) → For French residency and citizenship applications.

TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)

TCF Canada → Same acceptance as TEF Canada for immigration.
TCF Tout Public → General test, often used for university admissions or other non‑immigration purposes.
TCF IRN → For French residency and citizenship.

Also, older names such as “TEF Études,” “TCF Québec,” or “TEF General Public” have been phased out or merged.

The TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) is developed and managed by the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris Île-de-France (CCI Paris IDF).
The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) is created by France Éducation international, a public institution under the French Ministry of Education.

Both organizations are the official reference points for French-language assessment. Let's compare these two tests:

2. TEF and TCF Test Structure

Let's compare TEF and TCF and review their differences:

Compétence évaluée / Skill	TEF Canada	TCF Canada	TCF Tout Public
Compréhension orale (Listening)	Questions visible before & during audio; long audios, varied accents	Audio plays first, then questions appear; memory load; fewer accents	Similar formats; accents vary
Compréhension écrite (Reading)	Fewer but longer, complex passages	More numerous but shorter CEFR texts	Academic and social texts
Expression écrite (Writing)	2 tasks (e.g., article + opinion); flexible word count	3 tasks; Task 3 strict synthesis (120–180 words)	Optional writing module
Expression orale (Speaking)	2 min prep + 5–6 min interactive discussion; simulated dialogue + argumentation	No prep; includes EO3 monologue (4 min 30) on complex topic	Long, structured interaction
Grammaire (Grammar)	Not included	Not included	Optional “Structures de la langue” module
Méthode d’examen (Exam method)	Analysis + notes	Memory + fast answers	Academic structure
Accents	Very wide variety	Fewer accents	Varies
Objectif principal (Main purpose)	Immigration to Canada	Immigration to Canada	Studies & French naturalisation

3. Difficulty and Format Differences

TEF Canada feels harder if you dislike long texts, varied accents (including African, Belgian, Swiss), or need time to organize ideas in speaking.
TCF Canada feels harder if you struggle with short-term memory (listening), strict word limits (writing), or speaking alone for 4½ minutes without preparation.

Many candidates say:
“TEF speaking is a conversation; TCF speaking is a presentation.”

4. Validity and Official Recognition

Both TEF and TCF certificates remain valid for two years. For Canadian immigration, TEF Canada and TCF Canada are equally recognized by IRCC and Québec’s Ministry of Immigration.

If your goal is French naturalisation or obtaining a 10‑year resident card, you’ll need the TEF IRN or TCF IRN, requiring at least a B1 level for residency, and a B2 level is strongly recommended for citizenship.

5. Registration Fees

Costs depend on your location and test center, but here’s the ballpark:

TEF: €180–€250, depending on the version (e.g., TEF Canada or IRN).
TCF: €170–€240, varying by center and version.

Some centers charge separately for written vs. oral sections—double-check when you sign up!

6. How to Prep: Books, Apps, and Everyday Practice

The golden rule for both tests? Practice every day! Listen to podcasts, read news articles, write journal entries, and chat with native speakers.

TEF focus: Nail grammar and vocabulary (there’s a dedicated “lexique & structures” section).
TCF focus: Sharpen quick comprehension and fast analysis.

7. Prep Time and Biggest Challenges

If you already have a B1:

3–4 months of focused preparation (10–15 hours/week) is realistic for B2.
5–6 months for C1/C2.

Daily habits that work for both tests:

Listen to Radio France Internationale, France Culture podcasts, or TV5Monde
Read Le Monde, Le Figaro, or easier sites like 1jour1actu
Write 200–300 words every day (articles, opinions, summaries)
Record yourself speaking and compare to native models

8. How Are The TEF and TCF Exam Scored?

And lastly, here's how each exam is scored:

TEF graders look for logical flow, rich vocabulary, and spot-on grammar.
TCF graders follow a strict CEFR rubric, prioritizing clarity, coherence, and relevance.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, at their core, the TEF and TCF do the same job: prove your French level to the world. Pick the TEF if you need flexibility and a strong tie to Canada. Go for the TCF if you want solid academic or French government recognition. Either way, stay consistent, read often, practice daily, and you’ll be ready to shine!