DELF A1 Exam Structure: The Complete Guide
Knowing the DELF A1 format before the exam is essential for managing your time well and knowing exactly what's expected of you in each test. Here's everything you need to know about the official exam format.
The 4 tests of the DELF A1
The DELF A1 is divided into 4 tests: (1) Compréhension de l'oral: 20 min, 25 points. You'll hear 3-4 documents, each played twice. (2) Compréhension des écrits: 30 min, 25 points. You'll read 3-4 short texts. (3) Production écrite: 30 min, 25 points. Two writing exercises. (4) Production orale: 5-7 min, 25 points. Three activities with the examiner.
A1 oral production: the three parts
The production orale of the A1 has three parts: (1) Entretien dirigé (2-3 min): personal introduction and answering the examiner's basic questions about your life, family, or interests. (2) Échange d'informations (2-3 min): you ask the examiner questions using keywords given to you on cards. (3) Dialogue simulé (1-2 min): a role-play in a simple everyday situation.
How the DELF A1 is scored
Each test is worth 25 points (100 total). To pass, you need: a minimum of 50/100 overall AND a minimum of 5/25 on each individual test. If you fail one test, even with more than 50 overall, you fail the exam.
Practice exercises
What is the minimum score to pass the DELF A1?
How long does the DELF A1 last approximately?
How many times is each recording played in the DELF A1 listening comprehension?
Exam tips
- Memorize the exam structure: knowing what comes next reduces stress on exam day.
- In the listening test, read the questions BEFORE each recording so you know what to listen for.
- Manage your time well: the written production (30 min) is usually the section where time runs out fastest.
- For the oral production, practice speaking out loud regularly — improvisation improves with practice.
Prepara el DELF A1 con DelfOnline
Ejercicios interactivos, simulacros reales y preparación completa desde A1 hasta DALF C2.