If you’re learning French and planning to take a French exam, you’re probably wondering which one is right for your goals. Whether you’re applying for a visa, aiming to study in France, or simply want to assess your level, choosing the right French language exam is an important step.
At KLF, our five schools in France are official exam centers for the main French certifications: TCF, TEF, DELF, and DALF. In this article, we’ll walk you through each official French exam, what it’s used for, where you can take it, and how to prepare — so you can make an informed choice.
🎯 Why Take a French Exam?
Taking a certified French exam can help you:
- Apply for a residency card or French nationality
- Immigrate to Canada or Quebec
- Get admitted to a French university
- Prove your language level for professional or personal reasons
- Set a clear learning goal and track your progress in French
🧭 Overview of the Main French Language Exams
✅ TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
The TCF is an official French language test developed by France Éducation international. It evaluates your general proficiency in French and is widely accepted by government bodies and universities.
There are several versions of the TCF:
- TCF IRN: For integration, residency, or nationality in France
- TCF Tout Public: For higher education, work or personal assessment
- TCF Canada: For immigration or citizenship in Canada
- TCF Québec: For immigration to Quebec
Duration: 1–3 hours
Skills tested: Listening, reading, grammar, optional writing and speaking
Validity: 2 years
Available at: Annecy, Bordeaux, Lyon, Toulouse
✅ DELF & DALF (Diplomas in French Language Studies)
The DELF (A1 to B2) and DALF (C1 to C2) are official diplomas issued by the French Ministry of Education. These exams are perfect for long-term academic or professional projects.
Use them for:
- Applying to French-speaking universities
- Applying for French nationality
- Certifying your French level for work
- Getting a diploma that is valid for life
Skills tested: Listening, reading, writing, speaking
Levels: DELF = A1–B2, DALF = C1–C2
Validity: Lifetime
Available at: Bordeaux, Toulouse
✅ TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)
The TEF is another internationally recognized French proficiency test. It is accepted in France, Canada, and Switzerland for immigration, studies, and professional purposes.
TEF versions include: TEF Canada, TEF IRN, and TEF for studies or work.
Skills tested: Listening, reading, writing, speaking
Validity: 2 years
Available at: Bordeaux, Montpellier
📍 Where to Take a French Exam in France at KLF?
| KLF School | TCF | DELF/DALF | TEF |
|---|---|---|---|
| IFAlpes – Annecy | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Newdeal Institut – Bordeaux | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| LSF – Montpellier | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Lyon Bleu Int. – Lyon | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Langue Onze – Toulouse | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
📚 How to Prepare for a French Exam?
All KLF schools offer French exam preparation programs tailored to your exam and language level.
- Intensive Premium DELF/DALF preparation program – 30 lessons/week
- Preparation for DELF B2 – 15 lessons/week and DALF C1 – 20 lessons/week
- Private lessons focusing on oral or written skills
📌 Key Differences Between TCF, TEF, DELF and DALF
| Criteria | TCF | TEF | DELF/DALF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Residency, studies, immigration | Immigration, work, studies | University, long-term diploma |
| Format | QCM + optional production | QCM + oral/writing | All 4 skills required |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | Lifetime |
| Level tested | A1 to C2 | A1 to C2 | Specific level chosen |
| Result | Score certificate | Score certificate | Diploma (pass ≥ 50/100) |
🚀 Take Your Next Step With KLF
- ✔️ Choose from 5 destinations in France
- ✔️ Get expert guidance and certified preparation
- ✔️ Pass your official French exam with confidence
- ✔️ Open doors to study, live, or work in French-speaking countries
📩 Contact us now to find out the next exam dates and book your spot!
