Difference Between TEF and TCF: Which French Language Test Is Right for You?

Latest update: From January 1, 2026, candidates applying for French naturalization must now achieve a B2 level in both written and oral French, up from the previous B1 requirement.

For anyone planning to move to Canada or apply for French citizenship, proving French language proficiency is a non-negotiable step. The two most accepted tests are TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) and TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français), both recognised by IRCC and accepted in over 150 countries.

While they consider the same four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, the difference between TEF and TCF lies in their structure, scoring system, and flexibility. TEF offers more flexibility with section-wise retakes and previews in the listening section. TCF uses a fixed format with stricter time controls and no question preview in listening.

Your choice between TEF and TCF can directly affect your CLB score, visa timeline, and preparation strategy. This guide tells you about their key differences, so you can choose the test that best fits your goals, strengths, and target immigration route.

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What Is the Difference Between TEF and TCF for Canada and French Citizenship?

Although both exams serve similar purposes, TEF and TCF differ in their conduct, test formats, module flexibility, and eligibility for French citizenship. 

The table below highlights the key difference between TEF and TCF: 

Feature	TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)	TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
Conducting Body	Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP)	France Éducation International (under the French Ministry of Education)
Main Uses	• Canada PR (Express Entry, Quebec) • French university admissions	• Canada PR (Express Entry, Quebec) • French citizenship • University admissions
Accepted By	• IRCC (Canada) • MIFI (Quebec) • French universities	• IRCC (Canada) • MIFI (Quebec) • French universities • French naturalization authorities
Test Versions	• TEF Canada • TEF Québec • TEF for Studies	• TCF Canada • TCF Québec • TCF for the Public • TCF for Academic Purposes
CLB Equivalency	Available for TEF Canada and TEF Québec	Available for TCF Canada and TCF Québec
French Citizenship Use	Not accepted	Accepted
Test Format Flexibility	• Allows individual module retakes • Computer-based and paper-based options	• No individual module retakes • Mostly computer-based
Test Center Availability	Available in 150+ countries	Available in 140+ countries
Popularity Among Indian Applicants (2025)	Used by over 22,000 for Canada PR	Used by over 18,000 for Canada PR

TEF and TCF both check how well you know French. They are accepted for immigration, studies, and official purposes. The key difference is that TEF lets you retake just the parts you didn’t do well in, which gives you more control. TCF is often preferred for French citizenship because it’s directly accepted by the French authorities.

For Canada, both tests work just the same. They are valid for two years and are linked to CLB levels, which are used to calculate your CRS score for immigration.

Next, let’s see how TEF and TCF scores match up with CLB levels and how that affects your chances of moving to Canada.

Also Read:  Study in Canada  | Study in France

TEF vs TCF Scoring System and CLB Level Comparison

Both TEF and TCF have different scoring systems, but their results are converted into Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for Canada PR and Express Entry. 

The CLB level you achieve in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) determines how many CRS points you can earn.

Below is a comparison of how TEF and TCF scores align with CLB levels.

Skill	TEF Score Range (CLB)	TCF Score Range (CLB)
Listening	• CLB 7: 249–279 • CLB 9: 298–315 • CLB 10+: 316+	• CLB 7: 503–522 • CLB 9: 549–567 • CLB 10+: 568+
Reading	• CLB 7: 207–232 • CLB 9: 248–262 • CLB 10+: 263+	• CLB 7: 453–498 • CLB 9: 524–548 • CLB 10+: 549+
Writing	• CLB 7: 310–348 • CLB 9: 371–392 • CLB 10+: 393+	• CLB 7: 10 • CLB 9: 12 • CLB 10+: 13–15
Speaking	• CLB 7: 310–348 • CLB 9: 371–392 • CLB 10+: 393+	• CLB 7: 10 • CLB 9: 12 • CLB 10+: 13–15

Note: These score conversions apply only to TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Make sure to register for the correct test version based on your immigration goal.

Next, we will compare the exam pattern and duration for each test, so you know what to expect on test day.

TEF vs TCF Exam Format, Sections, and Time Limit

Both TEF and TCF stress the same four skills; that is, listening, reading, writing and speaking. Nevertheless, each of the tests has some differences in the amount of questions to be answered as well as the duration given and format.

Below is the table showcasing Exam Pattern and Duration Breakdown: 

Section	TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)	TCF  (Test de Connaissance du Français)
Listening	40 mins - 60 questions	25 mins - 29 questions
Reading	60 mins - 50 questions	45 mins - 29 questions
Writing	60 mins - 2 writing tasks	60 mins - 3 writing tasks
Speaking	15 mins with examiner	12 mins with examiner
Total Time	3 hours	2.5 hours

Note: For Canada PR, all four parts are required in TEF. In TCF, only listening and speaking are a must.

Want to apply for a Canada PR visa? Explore step-by-step guidance, eligibility rules, and expert tips on upGrad’s Canada PR visa guide.

Which Is Easier: TEF or TCF? User Experience and Difficulty Level

Which of the two tests TEF or TCF is easier? You are not the only one. It is just the matter of how comfortable you feel using the French language, and what kind of test structure you would operate best in.

This is the way it is that TEF and TCF practice real test conditions:

What Matters Most	TEF Feels Like	TCF Feels Like
Question Pattern	Very structured, you know what to expect	Less predictable, but shorter sections
Test Length	A bit longer, around 3 hours	Slightly shorter, easier to sit through
Retaking the Test	You can retake just one part if needed	You have to take the full test again
Writing Section	2 tasks ;  more focused	3 tasks; needs a bit more time and effort
Speaking Section	15-minute interview with an examiner	12-minute interview, quite similar to TEF

If you like structure and want the option to improve one section, TEF might suit you. But if you prefer something shorter and lighter, TCF can feel a bit easier.

TEF vs TCF Exam Fees: Country-Wise Cost Comparison

The price of the TEF and TCF exams depends on the country and the test center where you book. TEF is usually a little more expensive, especially if you plan to retake just one part. But in most places, the overall cost is quite similar for both.

Here is the general idea of how much each test costs in different countries:

Country	TEF (Full Test)	TCF (Full Test)
India	INR 18,000 –  INR 22,000	INR 16,000 –  INR 20,000
Canada	CAD 330 – 450 ( INR 20,000 –  INR 27,000)	CAD 300 – 420 ( INR 18,000 –  INR 25,000)
France	€150 – 250 ( INR 13,500 –  INR 22,500)	€130 – 220 ( INR 11,500 –  INR 19,500)
UAE	AED 900 – 1,200 ( INR 20,500 –  INR 27,500)	AED 850 – 1,150 ( INR 19,000 –  INR 26,500)
UK	£170 – 220 ( INR 18,000 –  INR 23,500)	£160 – 210 ( INR 17,000 –  INR 22,500)

Note: Prices can change based on the center. Some may also charge extra if you reschedule. If you want to retake just one part, TEF gives you that option, but it may cost a bit more.

Also Read: Study in UAE | Study in UK

TEF vs TCF: Which French Language Test Is Right for You?

You are not quite sure as to whether to choose TEF or TCF? It actually depends on the reason you are undertaking the test and what you feel comfortable in. So here is the nutshell:

• In the case of Canada PR

Both TEF and TCF are recognized during immigration, both Express Entry as well as Quebec programs. Choose the one which is more convenient to book or more accessible to you.

• To become French citizen

The TCF is the only test accepted in order to apply to French nationality. With that ambition then TCF is the way to go.

• For French universities
  Both tests work if you're applying to study in France. Some schools may prefer one, so double-check their requirements.
• If you want the option to retake one part
  TEF lets you retake just one section, like Speaking or Listening. That’s helpful if you only need to improve one skill.
• If you want a shorter test day

TCF is shorter and contains fewer questions. It is less exhausting to a great number of students taken in one take.

Therefore, select TEF in case you need a more flexible option. Select TCF when you want to obtain the French citizenship or want the test to be shorter.

Conclusion

So, when it comes to the difference between TEF and TCF, it comes down to your personal goals and comfort level. If you like flexibility and want to retake just one section, TEF might work better for you. If you are aiming for French citizenship, TCF is best.

Both tests are accepted for Canadian PR, education, and work, so there is no wrong choice, just the one that fits your situation best. Make sure to check the latest requirements for the country you are applying to, and give yourself enough time to prepare.

If you are still unsure about your options, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad and seek professional guidance! We’d be happy to help you figure this out.