Four official certifications are accepted by French préfectures to prove your language level.
All the criteria to choose the exam best suited to your procedure.
What is your procedure?
Select your situation to see the most suitable exam.
| Criterion | TCF Test de Connaissance du Français | TEF Test d'Évaluation de Français | DELF Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française | DALF Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | €80 – €130 | €90 – €150 | €100 – €150 | €150 – €200 |
| Duration | ≈ 1h30 to 2h30 | ≈ 2h to 3h | 1h20 to 2h30 by level | 3h30 to 4h |
| Format | MCQ + written and oral production | MCQ + à la carte expression modules | Written tests + oral interview | Synthesis, argumentative essay, oral presentation |
| Where to take it | Alliances Françaises, universities, approved centres | CCI Paris ÎdF, Alliances Françaises, institutes | Approved exam centres (France and abroad) | Approved exam centres (France and abroad) |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | For life | For life |
| Levels covered | A1A2B1B2C1C2 | A1A2B1B2C1C2 | A1A2B1B2 | C1C2 |
| Official website | Official website | Official website | Official website |
Indicative fees and durations — variable depending on the exam centre and country. Always confirm with the chosen centre before registering.
Official French level test recognised by the French authorities for immigration, naturalisation and resident card procedures.
Levels assessed
Organised by France Éducation international
Official websiteOfficial test to measure your level in French as a foreign language, accepted for French naturalisation and immigration to Quebec.
Levels assessed
Organised by CCI Paris Île-de-France
Official websiteOfficial diploma issued by the French Ministry of Education. Valid for life. Covers levels A1 to B2.
Levels assessed
Organised by France Éducation international
Official websiteOfficial diploma for advanced levels C1 and C2. Recognised for university enrolment in France.
Levels assessed
Organised by France Éducation international
Official website