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TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français)

Image by Annie Spratt

Purpose: Tests French language skills for immigration, work, and study.

Validity: Recognized in Canada and France, often required for immigration processes.

Levels: A1 to C2 proficiency levels.

Estimated Study Hours: About 100-200 hours of preparation.

Registration Process:

  1. Find an accredited TEF center.

  2. Fill out the registration form online.

  3. Pay the examination fees.

  4. Await confirmation of your test schedule.

 

Additional Information

  • Preparation Resources: Various online classes, textbooks, and practice tests are available for all proficiency levels.

  • Frequency of Exams: Most of these exams are held multiple times a year, and some centers may offer them monthly.

  • Recognition: Many universities and employers require these certifications for admission or employment within French-speaking environments.

These examinations have specific purposes and are recognized in various countries, making them important for those looking to validate their French language skills for study, work, or immigration. Each exam requires a different level of preparation, so it’s essential to choose the one that aligns with your.

 

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01

What the TEF is — quick overview

TEF = Test d’Évaluation de Français, created by the CCI Paris Île-de-France.

International test used for:

  Immigration to Canada (IRCC)

  Québec immigration (MIFI)

  University admissions

  French citizenship (naturalisation)

  Long-term residence permit in France

Validity:2 years

Levels tested: A1 → C2(adaptive scoring)

Unlike DELF/DALF → TEF is not a diploma, but a temporary language certificate.

02

Registration — step by step

  • 1. Find an authorised TEF centre (Alliance Française / CCI-approved centres).

  • 2. Fill the registration form+ submit ID + pay fees.

  • 3. Receive convocation with exam details & candidate number.

  • 4. Keep your passport ready for exam day.

  •  TEF sessions run year-round; dates vary by centre.

03

Task Types (all modules explained)

  • LISTENING – 40 MCQs  - 40 minutes

You hear:

  • daily conversations

  • announcements

  • interviews

  • debates or radio clips

  • Questions test general meaning + precise detail.

 

  • READING – 40-MCQs -60 minutes

  • Texts include:

  • signs

  • emails

  • news articles

  • professional documents

  • academic texts

  • Difficulty increases from A1 → C2.

 

  • SPEAKING – 2 Tasks

  • Task 1 – formal conversation - 5 minutes

  • Simulated scenario (e.g., buying, asking info).

  • Role-play with examiner.

 

  • Task 2 – informal conversation - 10 minutes

  • Prepare an opinion on a topic.

  • Convince, justify, debate.

 

  • WRITING – 2 Tasks

  • Task 1 : Fait divers - 80-100 words (25 minutes)

  • Task 2 : Letter - 250-280 words (35 minutes)

04

Scoring & Conversion

  • TEF scores are converted to CEFR levels (A1 → C2).

  • For immigration, they convert to:

  • CLB/NCLC for Canada

  • MIFI points for Québec

Unlike DELF/DALF:

  • No minimum score in each module unless required by immigration.

  • You receive a score per skill, not a total global score.

05

Results & Validity

  • Results usually released in 1–3 weeks.

  • Delivered as an official TEF certificate.

  • Valid only 2 years.

  • TEF Canada results are uploaded electronically to IRCC by the test centre.

06

Retakes / Repeats

  • You can retake the TEF as many times as you want.

  • You must wait 20 days between two TEF attempts (TEF rule).

  • You may retake only the modules you want (Canada requires all four, so you retake all four).

07

Exam-Day Rules & What to Bring

Bring:

  •  Passport

  • Convocation

  • Centre receipt (if required)

  • Pens/eraser (for paper modules)

 

Rules:

  •  Arrive at least 30 minutes early

  •  Phones switched off

  • No notes/dictionaries

  • Speaking test recorded on camera/microphone

  • Computer tests require ID verification before starting

08

Practical Tips for TEF Success

Listening​

  • Use TV5Monde, RFI, France Culture

  • Practise with mock MCQs

  • Improve speed: audio is played only once in TEF

 

Reading​

  • Read 20 Minutes, Le Parisien, Le Monde

  • Practise skimming (global meaning) & scanning (details)

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Writing

  • Learn structure for emails & essays

  • Practise connectors: toutefois, en revanche, ainsi, par conséquent…

  • Respect the task instructions strictly

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Speaking

  • Be structured

    • Introduction →  2 arguments → example → conclusion

  • Practise debates with a timer

  • Focus on clarity + fluency (not perfection)

09

Quick TEF Checklist

  •  Choose TEF Canada / Québec / Études / Naturalisation / Résident

  • Register at official centre → pay fees

  • Receive convocation

  • Attend written modules

  • Attend speaking module

  • Wait for results

  • Use certificate for immigration/university

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