What is the TCF Certificate?
The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) is an official French language proficiency test developed by France Éducation International for non-native speakers. It evaluates general French language skills for academic, professional, or immigration purposes. Obtain a TCF certificate online
TCF Versions
Depending on your goal, you can take one of these versions:
- TCF Tout Public (General Public) – Evaluates general French proficiency.
- TCF Canada – For Canadian immigration (IRCC-approved).
- TCF Québec (TCFQ) – For Quebec immigration (MIDI-approved).
- TCF Naturalisation – For French citizenship applications.
- TCF DAP – For direct admission to French universities (L1/L2).
- TCF ANF (Accès à la Nationalité Française) – Simplified test for French nationality.
- TCF Professionnel – For work-related French proficiency.
Exam Structure
The TCF consists of mandatory and optional sections, depending on the version:
Mandatory Sections (Multiple Choice)
| Section | Duration | Questions | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compréhension Orale (Listening) | 25-30 mins | 29 Qs | Audio clips with MCQs |
| Maîtrise des Structures de la Langue (Grammar) | 15-20 mins | 18 Qs | Grammar & vocabulary MCQs |
| Compréhension Écrite (Reading) | 45 mins | 29 Qs | Texts with MCQs |
Optional Sections (Written/Oral)
| Section | Duration | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Expression Orale (Speaking) | 12 mins | 3 tasks (interview, role-play, presentation) |
| Expression Écrite (Writing) | 60 mins | 3 tasks (message, essay, argumentation) |
*Note: TCF Canada/Québec includes all 5 sections (mandatory for immigration).*
Registration Process
- Find a Test Center (Alliance Française, FEI-approved institutes).
- Choose Your Version (e.g., TCF Canada, TCF Naturalisation).
- Book a Slot (online/in-person registration).
- Pay the Fee (varies by version and country).
- Bring ID (Passport/national ID required).
Cost (Approximate Fees)
| Version | Price (EUR/USD) |
|---|---|
| TCF Tout Public | €90-€150 (~$100-$170) |
| TCF Canada | €200-€300 (~$220-$330) |
| TCF Québec | €160-€250 (~$180-$280) |
| TCF Naturalisation | €70-€120 (~$80-$140) |
| TCF DAP | €100-€180 (~$110-$200) |
Prices vary by country and test center.
Eligibility
- No formal prerequisites (open to all non-native French speakers).
- Age: Typically 16+ (some centers allow younger test-takers).
- ID Requirement: Valid passport or government-issued ID.
Results & Validity
- Results: Available in 2-4 weeks (electronic/hard copy).
- Scoring:
- A1 to C2 (CEFR levels).
- For Canada/Québec, converted to CLB/NCLC levels.
- Validity:
- 2 years (for immigration & academic purposes).
- Some institutions may accept older results.
Preparation Tips
- Take practice tests from the official site
- Focus on listening and speaking for naturalisation versions
- Join prep courses (many online options available)
Get a valid TCF certificate online. Pass the TCF exam on the first attempt. Apply for a TCF certificate online. Get a TCF Canada certificate online.
Why Take the TEF?
- Immigration (Canada, Quebec, France).
- University admissions in French-speaking countries.
- Professional recognition (jobs requiring French proficiency).