TCF Tout Public (TP) - Free Online Test

In an increasingly globalized world, knowing French can open doors to study, work, and even residence. 

The Test de Connaissance du Français Tout Public (TCF TP) is the official exam used to show your level of French if you’re not a native speaker. Managed by France Éducation International, it places you on the CEFR scale, from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2). 

In this guide, we’ll explain what the TCF TP is, why it matters, and how you can prepare for it step by step. First, let’s see what TCF Tout Public exactly is: 

What Is the TCF Tout Public?

The TCF Tout Public (TCF TP) is a French test for anyone aged 16 or older who isn’t a native speaker. It gives you an official measure of your French level, whether for study, work, or personal goals. 

Unlike exams such as DELF or DALF, where you pick a level in advance, the TCF TP evaluates your skills directly. Created by the French Ministry of Education, it’s recognized worldwide and valid for two years. 

Students, professionals, and immigrants usually use this test to prove their French ability. In short, the TCF TP is a clear certificate of your progress in learning French.

Who Should Take the TCF Tout Public? 

The TCF TP is useful for many different people:

TCF Tout Public Test Structure

The TCF TP is flexible. It has three compulsory parts and two optional parts. You can choose to take only the compulsory modules (about 1 hour 25 minutes) or the full version with everything included (about 2 hours 37 minutes).

Let’s review each part:

Compulsory Modules (Multiple Choice, Computer-Based)

These modules test your ability to understand French and are scored on a scale of up to 699 points:

• Language Structures (15 minutes, 18 questions): Grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
• Listening (25 minutes, 29 questions): Short audio clips like conversations or announcements.
• Reading (45 minutes, 29 questions): Texts such as articles, ads, or emails.

These modules are adaptive, meaning the questions adjust to your level, and they’re available year‑round at approved centers.

Optional Modules (Expression-Based)

If you want a complete profile, you can add:

• Oral Expression (12 minutes): A short interview with an examiner, including personal questions, role‑plays, or arguments. Assessed on fluency, pronunciation, and clarity.
• Written Expression (60 minutes): Two writing tasks, a short informal message (about 120 words) and a longer formal essay (about 250 words). Assessed on structure, vocabulary, and accuracy.

Why Take the Full TCF TP Version?

The complete test (compulsory + optional) is often required for university admission or job applications, since it shows both your understanding and your ability to produce French. Also, all parts are now computer-based, so the process is faster and easier. 

TCF Tout Public Scoring and CEFR Levels

Your TCF TP results are linked to the six CEFR levels, from beginner to advanced:

Your overall score is the average of the modules you take, and you’ll also get a breakdown by skill. Certificates are issued within 4–6 weeks. There’s no pass or fail; you simply receive a level. For most university admissions, aiming for B2 or higher is recommended.

TCF Tout Public Registration and Costs

Where To Take The Test: The TCF TP is offered at more than 1,000 centers worldwide, including Alliance Française, Institut Français, and many universities. In big cities like Paris, Lyon, Montreal, and Philadelphia, sessions usually run every month.

Fees: Prices depend on the center and the modules you choose.

• Compulsory sections: €90–€160 (about $100–$180 USD)
• Full test: €150–€250
• Optional oral or written modules: €50–€70 each. Always check your local center for exact costs, since currency and overhead can change the price.

How to Register: Sign up online through the center’s portal (such as France Éducation International). Bring a valid ID on exam day. Dictionaries are not allowed.

Format: Most sessions are computer‑based, with paper versions gradually disappearing.

Tip: Book early if you plan to take the test in busy seasons like fall, when demand is high.

How to Prepare for The TCF Tout Public (TP)? 

Here are some important resources that can help you prepare for the TCF Tout Public: 

• Official Prep Materials: Use sample tests from France Éducation International or short courses at centers like ELC College or Inflexyon (4–8 weeks, €200–€400).
• Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions with timed practice. Platforms like Mocko.ai and GlobalExam are excellent. Mocko.ai offers adaptive mock exams, oral and written practice, and instant feedback.

Many learners report a 20–30% score improvement when following structured courses and consistent practice.

A Step‑by‑Step Preparation Plan Using Mocko

Mocko can guide you through a clear 4–8 week study roadmap:

• Week 1: Diagnostic and Setup: Begin with a free TCF TP mock test on Mocko. This shows your strengths and weaknesses (for example, strong in reading but weaker in listening). Set clear goals based on your target level: B1 for immigration, B2 for academics.
• Weeks 2–5: Intensive Practice: Take three mock exams each week, alternating between compulsory and optional modules. Use Mocko’s adaptive mode, which increases difficulty as you improve. Add daily vocabulary practice to build toward the 5,000+ words needed for advanced levels.
• Weeks 6–7: Review and Refine: Study your feedback reports closely and focus on weak areas. If listening scores are low, practice with RFI‑style audio integrated into Mocko. Do one full simulation each week to track progress.
• Week 8: Final Polish: Sit two or three proctored mocks under timed conditions. Pay special attention to common pitfalls like managing time during the reading section.

👉 Combine Mocko with official resources (such as France Éducation International sample tests) for the best results. Mocko complements them perfectly.

Why Choose Mocko Over Other Prep Tools?

Mocko stands out for busy learners: professionals, students, or anyone juggling schedules. It gives you the same depth and quality as expensive courses, but in a more flexible way!