What the TCF is — quick overview

TCF = Test de Connaissance du Français

An official language proficiency test administered by France Éducation International (FEI).

Used for:

  Immigration (Canada & Québec)

 University admissions

 Work permits

 Personal assessment

Validity:2 years → TCF expires after 24 months (unlike DELF/DALF).

Levels tested: A1 → C2 (adaptive or fixed depending on version).

Versions of TCF

1) TCF Canada

• For Express Entry, PR, Study Visa, Spousal Sponsorship.

2) TCF Québec (TCF Québec / TCFQ)

• For immigration through Québec (PEQ, Skilled Worker).

Registration — step by step

• 1. Choose version (Canada / Québec / TP).

• 2. Find an authorised TCF centre (Alliance Française or FEI-accredited centres).

• 3. Fill registration form + submit passport + pay fees.

• 4. Receive convocation with exam time, date, candidate number.

• 5. Keep your ID ready for exam day.

• TCF dates are available throughout the year — centres schedule their own sessions.

Exam format — how TCF is conducted

TCF exams include compulsory and optional tests depending on the version.

Modules of TCF (with differences by version)

• TCF CANADA – MODULES (All are COMPULSORY)

1. Listening (Compréhension orale) – 35 items – ~39 minutes

2. Reading (Compréhension écrite) – 35 items – ~60 minutes

3. Speaking (Expression orale) – 3 tasks – ~12 minutes

4. Writing (Expression écrite) – 3 tasks – ~60 minutes

• ALL FOUR SKILLS ARE REQUIRED for IRCC.

• Paper-based OR computer-based depending on centre.

Scoring & CEFR Levels

• TCF uses a scale of 100–699.

• Each skill receives a score + corresponding CEFR level:

| Score   | CEFR Level |

| ----------- | ------------ |

| 100–199 | A1               |

| 200–299 | A2              |

| 300–399 | B1              |

| 400–499 | B2              |

| 500–599 | C1              |

| 600–699 | C2              |

• For TCF Canada, IRCC converts these to CLB/NCLC for immigration.

Results & Validity

• Results are released within 2–3 weeks (varies by centre).

• Results include score in each skill + CEFR level.

• Validity is 2 years only.

• You receive an official TCF Attestation (PDF or paper).

• Unlike DELF/DALF → No diploma, only a temporary certificate.

Retakes / repeats

• You may retake the TCF as many times as you want.

• Some centres impose a 30-day waiting period between sessions.

• You must retake all required modules (cannot redo only one part for Canada).

Exam-Day Rules & What to Bring

Bring

• Passport (mandatory)

• Convocation/admission letter

• Fees receipt (if required)

• Pens/pencils (if paper-based)

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Rules

• Phones completely switched off

• No dictionaries or notes

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early

• Talking forbidden during written tests

• Speaking test face-to-face with examiner (or via computer for certain centres)

Practical Tips for TCF (Success Strategy)

Listening

Practice with RFI, TV5MONDE, France Culture

Focus on catching general meaning + specific info

Train with mock tests (timed)

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Reading

Use news websites (Le Monde, 20 Minutes, Le Parisien)

Practise scanning and skimming

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Writing

Learn templates for emails, structured essays

Use connectors: premièrement, cependant, en conclusion

Keep word count & time under control

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Speaking

Practise 2–3 minute arguments

Use a clear structure: intro → 2 arguments → example → conclusion

Train with a partner or teacher

Quick TCF Checklist

Choose version (Canada / Québec / TP)

Register at official centre

Written tests (compulsory)

Speaking & Writing (as required)

Wait for results

Submit TCF certificate to immigration/university