Upcoming TEF exam Canada dates include June 11, June 25, July 4, July 28, August 11, and August 25, 2025. You can take the test as many times as needed, with a mandatory 30-day gap between each attempt.
The TEF exam Canada is designed to test your reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. It sees over 110,000 global candidates annually. With 500+ official centers worldwide, you can easily appear for the test. You must be at least 16 years old, and you can retake it as many times as you wish, keeping a 30-day gap between attempts.
If you aim to study in Canada, TEF opens doors to French-language programs and academic institutions. If you want to do a job in Canada, it helps you meet French language requirements for skilled migration or PR. This guide explains the exam pattern, fees, dates, and rules to help you prepare with clarity.
TEF Exam Canada: Overview
The TEF exam Canada has measured French proficiency for academic and professional needs since 1958, officially recognized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Paris Île-de-France. It assesses your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills through a timed structure.
You must understand the test setup clearly before registering. The highlights below explain the structure and conditions in detail.
Particulars
Details
Test Duration
2 hours, 45 minutes
Test Format
In-person at authorized test centers.
Candidates must complete all four sections on the same day for the certificate to be recognized.
Computer-Based Sections
The Reading, Listening, and Writing sections are computer-based.
Candidates will be provided with access codes to log into the online test platform at the test center.
Special Accommodations
Available for candidates with disabilities; requires submission of a medical certificate detailing necessary adjustments.
Test Validity
Results are valid for two years from the test date.
Next, find out whether you're eligible to take the TEF exam Canada and what criteria you must meet in 2025.
TEF Exam Canada: Eligibility in 2025
To take the TEF exam Canada, you must be at least 16 years old and provide valid identification. The exam does not limit you based on education or prior language fluency. You also have the flexibility to retake it after 30 days, which helps if you need to improve your score.
Review the eligibility details below to make sure you're ready before booking your exam.
Eligibility Criteria
Details
Minimum Age
16 years or older.
Identification
Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver's license) required at registration and on exam day.
No minimum proficiency level required to take the test; however, specific immigration or citizenship programs may have their own language proficiency requirements.
Retake Policy
Candidates may retake the test after a 30-day waiting period between attempts.
Now move ahead to understand the structure and content of the TEF exam Canada to prepare effectively.
TEF Exam Canada: Format & Syllabus
The TEF exam Canada consists of four main components that measure your reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. The total test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Each section targets a specific language skill required for academic or immigration purposes.
The structure below outlines what you’ll be tested on and how long each section will take
Test Component
Objective
Duration
Reading Comprehension
Assess the ability to understand written French documents
1 hour
Listening Comprehension
Assess the ability to understand spoken French through audio documents
40 minutes
Written Expression
Assess the ability to express oneself in written French
1 hour
Oral Expression
Assess the ability to communicate orally in French
15 minutes
Now that you know what each section covers, it’s important to see how the test is delivered and managed at the centers.
Format of TEF Exam Canada
The TEF exam for Canada PR process uses a structured format to test your French proficiency in reading, listening, writing, and speaking. For example, in the Written Expression section, you must write a minimum of 200 words to justify a point of view. The Oral Expression is conducted live with an examiner and recorded.
To get a clear understanding of how each section is delivered, examine the format explained below.
Test Component
Content
Format
Reading Comprehension
4 sections – 40 questions
Multiple-choice questions (MCQ)
4 options per question; only one correct answer.
Navigation within the test is allowed.
Listening Comprehension
4 sections – 40 questions
Multiple-choice questions (MCQ)
4 options per question; only one correct answer.
Each audio is played once
Questions must be answered in order.
Written Expression
2 sections:
Section A (25 minutes): Continue an article (minimum 80 words)
Section B (35 minutes): Express and justify a point of view (minimum 200 words).
Oral Expression
2 sections:
Section A (5 minutes): Obtain information
Section B (10 minutes): Express an argument to convince.
Conducted face-to-face with an examiner and recorded for assessment.
Now that you understand the test structure, move forward to check the important dates and registration deadlines for 2025.
TEF Exam Canada: Dates & Deadlines
Missing the TEF exam Canada registration deadline can delay your immigration or university application for various intakes (Winter, Summer, September).
Each center follows a fixed schedule, and slots fill up fast. For instance, the July 4, 2025 exam closes registration by June 27, 2025, just seven days before. Knowing the exact dates helps you plan without last-minute pressure.
Check the upcoming TEF Canada exam dates and deadlines listed below.
Exam Date
Registration Deadline
May 21, 2025
May 14, 2025 (Closed)
June 11, 2025
June 4, 2025
June 25, 2025
June 18, 2025
July 4, 2025
June 27, 2025
July 28, 2025
July 21, 2025
August 11, 2025
August 4, 2025
August 25, 2025
August 18, 2025
September 10, 2025
September 3, 2025
September 25, 2025
September 18, 2025
Now that you know the TEF Canada deadlines, take the next step by learning how to register correctly.
How to Register For the TEF Exam in Canada?
Students may find the TEF exam Canada registration process confusing, especially with center-specific procedures and payment rules. Missing a single step or submitting the wrong document can delay your slot. To avoid this, follow each instruction carefully and double-check the dates with the center.
The steps below will guide you through a smooth TEF Canada exam registration.
Locate an authorized test center: Visit the official TEF Canada registration page to find a test center near you.
Contact the chosen test center: Reach out to the selected center to inquire about available exam dates, registration procedures, and required documents.
Complete the registration form: Fill out the registration form provided by the test center, ensuring all personal information is accurate.
Submit the required documents: Provide a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport) as part of your registration.
Pay the TEF Canada exam fee: Follow the payment instructions given by the test center. Fees may vary between centers (~INR 24,780 for India).
Receive confirmation: After completing registration and payment, the test center will send you a confirmation email with exam details.
Prepare for the exam: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and practice accordingly.
Attend the exam: Arrive at the test center on the scheduled date and time with your confirmation email and ID.
Now that you know how to book your slot, learn about the TEF Canada exam fee and what it covers.
Exam Fees for TEF Exam in Canada
Students worry about the TEF Canada exam fee, especially when budgeting for multiple attempts or international test centers. The cost may vary depending on your location. Understanding the charges upfront avoids confusion during registration.
Check the latest TEF Canada exam fee details across locations below.
Test Center
TEF Canada Exam Fee
TEF Canada Exam Fee (INR)
Alliance Française Toronto
CAD 390
~INR 24,780
Alliance Française (All India locations)
INR 24,780
~INR 24,780
Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change.
Next, review the TEF exam Canada levels and how your score translates into official results.
TEF Exam Canada: Levels & Scores
Scoring well in the TEF exam Canada is key if you're applying for immigration or university admission. Students sometimes struggle to understand what scores they need to match the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels.
For instance, to reach CLB 10, your speaking and writing scores must fall between 393 and 450, which requires advanced command of French.
Use the table below to match your TEF scores to the corresponding CLB levels.
Once you know your score goals, the next step is to choose the nearest certified exam center.
TEF Exam Centres in India
The TEF exam for Canada PR is available across multiple cities in India through authorized Alliance Française centers. With over 500 partners globally, India has a strong network of certified locations, making access easier for students. You can choose a center near your residence to reduce travel and meet deadlines comfortably.
Use the table below to find the official TEF Canada exam centers in India.
City
Address
Pondicherry
58, Rue Suffren,
White Town, 605001,
Puducherry.
Hyderabad
Plot no. 4, Renuka Enclave,
Aurora Colony, Road n°3. Banjara Hills,
500034 Hyderabad
Ahmedabad
Manekbaug,
Shyamal Cross Rd,
beside Food Corporation of India, Shyamal,
Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015
Chennai
24 College Road
Nungambakkam
Chennai 600006
Lucknow
La Martinière Girls College,
Rana Pratap Marg,
Hazratganj, 226001
Bombay
Ground floor – Theosophy Hall,
40 New Marine Lines,
Mumbai – 400 020
Kolkata
57A Park Street,
Park Mansions, 700016
Trivandrum
Forest Office Lane,
Nandavanam,
Vazhuthacaud, 690014
Pune
270-D, Patrakar Nagar Road,
Off Senapati Bapat Road,
Pune – 411016
Bhopal
B-75 Shahpura,
Bhopal 462016
Chandigarh
Next to Hibiscus Garden,
sector 36-A, 160036,
Chandigarh
Once you’ve picked your center, make sure you’re aware of the key rules and procedures before exam day.
TEF Exam Rules and Regulations You Must Know
Strict exam-day rules apply to the TEF exam for Canada PR visa, and breaking them can lead to disqualification. You must take all four test components on the same day for your certificate to be valid. The CCI Paris Île-de-France enforces rules strictly, including identification checks and candidate conduct.
Read the official TEF Canada exam rules and requirements below.
Arrival Time:
Arrive at the test center at the specified time. Late arrivals will not be permitted to enter the examination room once the exam has begun.
Tip: Reach the venue at least 30 minutes early to avoid unexpected delays.
Identification:
Present a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver's license) on the exam day. The ID must match the one used during registration.
Tip: Double-check your ID details when submitting the registration form.
Photograph Requirement:
A photograph will be taken of each candidate before the exam starts, as required.
Tip: Dress appropriately, as this photo becomes part of your exam record.
Examination Conduct:
Communication between candidates is prohibited throughout the exam.
Any candidate found engaging in fraud or misconduct will be removed from the examination room and may face a ban from future tests, as determined by CCI Paris Île-de-France.
Tip: Avoid any form of whispering, note-sharing, or suspicious movement.
Test Format:
The TEF Canada exam consists of four compulsory parts: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
All tests must be taken on the same day for your certificate to be recognized by the Canadian authorities.
Tip: Use practice tests to build your stamina for completing all sections in one sitting.
Results Validity:
Your results certificate is valid for two years from the date of issue.
Tip: Apply for academic or immigration programs within this two-year window.
Retake Policy:
Candidates can retake the test, provided there is a minimum 30-day waiting period between registrations.
Tip: Use this gap to review your lowest scoring section and target improvements.
Special Accommodations:
Available for candidates with disabilities; requires submission of a medical certificate detailing necessary adjustments.
Tip: Submit your request and documents early, as accommodations need advance approval.
Data Privacy:
When you register for TEF Canada, Le français des affaires of the CCI Paris Ile-de-France collects certain personal information to process your application in accordance with Canadian immigration laws.
Tip: Read the privacy policy on the official site before submitting your registration.
Understanding the TEF exam in Canada depends on more than language skills, it requires clear planning and awareness of rules, fees, deadlines, and score requirements.
Why Should You Take the TEF Exam in Canada?
The TEF exam Canada meets official requirements for multiple pathways. It is accepted for Canadian immigration (TEF Canada), Quebec immigration (TEFAQ), French citizenship, university admissions, and professional certification. It helps you prove your French proficiency across sectors.
You will benefit in different ways by taking the TEF exam Canada. The points below explain how.
Proof of French Language Proficiency: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognizes TEF Canada as the official proof of French language proficiency for immigration and citizenship applications.
Eligibility for Canadian Immigration Programs: A valid TEF Canada score is accepted for various Canadian immigration pathways, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).
Enhancement of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Achieving higher scores in TEF Canada can significantly improve your CRS points in the Express Entry system, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Admission to French-Speaking Educational Institutions: TEF Canada scores are accepted by various universities and colleges in French-speaking regions as proof of language proficiency for admission purposes.
Facilitation of Employment Opportunities: Demonstrating French language proficiency through TEF Canada can enhance employment prospects in bilingual or French-speaking workplaces across Canada.
Validity of Results: TEF Canada results are valid for two years from the date of the test, providing flexibility in planning your immigration or academic applications.
Taking the TEF exam will open up new opportunities to settle in Canada for you.
Conclusion
The TEF exam Canada plays a key part in helping you qualify for immigration, education, or employment in French-speaking regions of Canada. This guide covered the exam format, fee details, eligibility, official centers, rules, and scoring. With accurate planning, you can avoid delays and improve your results with each attempt.
If you're unsure where to begin or need help mapping your TEF goals, connect with an expert at upGrad.
Can I use TEF Canada scores for French-speaking province immigration programs like Quebec?
Yes, TEF Canada scores are accepted by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) as valid proof of French proficiency for economic immigration programs. You must meet the language criteria defined by MIFI at the time of application.
Is there a minimum age requirement to appear for the TEF Canada exam?
Yes, you must be at least 16 years old to register for the TEF Canada exam. There are no academic prerequisites or diploma requirements for taking the test.
How is the TEF Canada different from the TCF Canada exam in terms of acceptance?
Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for immigration and citizenship applications. TEF Canada is administered by the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris, while France Éducation International manages TCF Canada.
Can I retake the TEF Canada exam immediately if I’m not satisfied with my score?
Yes, you can retake the TEF Canada exam without a mandatory waiting period. However, it's advisable to check with your chosen test center, as some may have specific policies regarding retake intervals.
What identification documents are accepted at TEF Canada test centers in India?
Accepted identification documents include a valid passport or Aadhaar card. Ensure the ID matches the one used during registration, as it's required for verification on exam day.
Are there any accommodations available for candidates with disabilities in the TEF Canada exam?
Yes, candidates with disabilities can request accommodations by submitting a medical certificate before registration. The certificate should detail the nature of the disability and recommend necessary adjustments. Approved accommodations may include modified test formats or environments.
Do TEF Canada scores expire after a certain period for immigration purposes?
Yes, TEF Canada scores are valid for two years from the date of issue. They must be valid when you complete your Express Entry profile and submit your permanent residence application.
Can I choose to appear for only specific modules of the TEF Canada exam?
No, for Canadian immigration purposes, all four modules (reading, listening, writing, and speaking) must be taken on the same day. Partial testing is not accepted for official recognition.
How long does it take to receive the TEF Canada score report after the exam?
You will receive your TEF Canada results approximately two weeks after taking the test. An email will be sent with a link to a secure digital platform where you can download your official certificate.
Can I use TEF Canada scores to apply for Canadian universities or only for immigration?
Yes, TEF Canada scores are accepted by several Canadian universities, particularly French-speaking institutions like Université de Montréal, HEC Montréal, and Polytechnique Montréal, as proof of French proficiency for admission. However, each university may have specific requirements regarding the TEF version and score thresholds.
What should I do if I face technical issues during the computer-based TEF Canada exam?
Immediately inform the exam supervisor of any technical problems. If a serious malfunction occurs, you have the right to submit an appeal within 30 days of receiving your results. Approved appeals may allow you to retake the affected sections free of charge.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland...
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