What is the TCF?
The Test de Connaissance du Français is an official adaptive exam that measures your French level from A1 to C2. Recognised for immigration to France, Canada and Québec, and for university admission.
Definition
An adaptive test that measures your real level
The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) is an official exam from the Centre International d'Études Pédagogiques (CIEP), an agency of the French Ministry of Education. It measures your French level from A1 to C2 using an adaptive format.
Unlike the DELF/DALF, you don't need to choose a level in advance. The exam adapts in real time to your answers to precisely measure your actual competence.
It is especially popular for immigration to Canada and Québec, and as an admission requirement for universities and architecture schools in France.
2 years
Result validity
48h
Time to results
A1–C2
Levels covered
4+
TCF types
Formats
The 4 types of TCF
There are versions of the TCF tailored to each purpose. Choose the one that best fits your goal.
TCF tout public
For anyone who wants to assess their French level — employers, administrative applications, studies outside France.
TCF Canada
Specifically for immigration to Canada (Express Entry, Quebec). Recognised by IRCC and the Quebec government.
TCF pour le DAP
For admission applications to architecture schools (ENSA) in France.
TCF Québec
For the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) and permanent residency in Quebec.
Structure
The TCF sections
3 compulsory sections + 2 optional. The optional sections are recommended if you need the TCF for study in France.
Listening Comprehension
Compulsory29 questions. Real-life situations, news and conversations of increasing difficulty.
Reading Comprehension
Compulsory29 questions. Texts of different registers and topics with comprehension questions.
Language Structures
Compulsory20 questions. Grammar, syntax and textual coherence in real contexts.
Written Expression
Optional3 written tasks assessed by certified markers. Recommended for study in France.
Oral Expression
Optional3 recorded oral tasks assessed by examiners. Required for university and immigration applications.
Comparison
TCF vs DELF: which should I choose?
Benefits
Why choose the TCF?
Results in 48 hours
The digital version delivers results in just 48 hours. Ideal when you have tight deadlines.
Covers all levels
A single adaptive exam assesses from A1 to C2. No need to choose a level in advance.
Recognised for immigration
Accepted by France, Canada and Québec for visa, residency and naturalisation applications.
Adaptive exam
Difficulty adapts in real time to your level. Always questions in your development zone.
Recognised by universities
Many French universities accept the TCF for international student admissions.
Faster than the DELF
No separate skill preparation needed. One continuous, flowing exam of around 3 hours.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the TCF
What is the TCF and what is it used for?
The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) is an official exam from the Centre International d'Études Pédagogiques (CIEP) that measures your French level on a scale from A1 to C2. It is used mainly for immigration applications, French university admissions and workplace assessments.
How long is the TCF valid for?
The TCF is valid for 2 years, unlike the DELF and DALF which are lifetime diplomas. Bear this in mind if you need it for a specific application.
What is the difference between the TCF and the DELF?
The TCF is an evaluation test: it gives you a score and an equivalent level, but it is not a 'diploma' in the strict sense. The DELF is a permanent official diploma. For your CV or long-term certification, the DELF is more advisable. For urgent immigration or university applications, the TCF can be faster.
Which TCF sections are compulsory?
The compulsory sections are: listening comprehension (29 questions), reading comprehension (29 questions) and language structures (20 questions). Written and oral expression are optional but strongly recommended if you need the TCF to study in France.
Is TCF Canada different from TCF tout public?
Yes. TCF Canada is specifically designed for immigration to Canada (Express Entry) and Quebec. Its results are recognised by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Quebec government. TCF tout public is for general use.
How do I prepare for the TCF?
TCF preparation is similar to the DELF/DALF. With DELFOnline, you train all four language skills with exercises adapted to your level. The focus on listening, reading, grammar and expression prepares you directly for the TCF sections.
Prepare for the TCF with the DELFOnline method
Listening, reading, grammar and expression exercises adapted to your level. One method for all three major French exams.
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