The DALF C2 will test you on the four language skills: reading/writing and listening/speaking. Here's what you can expect from this high-level French proficiency test.
Reading comprehension and writing skills
Compréhension et production écrites
3½ hours / 50 points
You'll be given several documents totaling approximately 2,000 words in the subject area of your choice (literature/social science or science). Your task is to combine/summarize them into a well-structured article, report, speech, etc.
Tips
Read the documents carefully and make sure you understand your assignment. Consider your intended audience and make a detailed outline with ideas about what to say in your introduction, the key points you want to hit, and how to draw everything together into a conclusion. Allow enough time at the end for a careful read-through to catch obvious spelling/grammar mistakes and fill in any holes in your argument. Remember that this is a test of both comprehension and production, so demonstrating that you understand the assignment and the documents is just as important as writing in the best possible French.
Practice
If you're thinking about taking the DALF C2, you're probably already reading newspapers and magazines and literature and have a good understanding of current events and French culture. Try reading some academic journals and scientific articles to broaden your range.
Listening comprehension and speaking
Compréhension et production orales
1½ hours / 50 points
After listening, twice, to a recording of approximately 15 minutes, you'll have three tasks:
- Summarize the recording
- Take a stand and argue your point of view
- Discuss with the examiners
Tips
Listen carefully and take notes about the important details. What is the source of the recording? Who is speaking? Without repeating them word for word, what are the main ideas? What kind of argument can you make about them? Can you relate them to anything in the news or history?
Practice
Talk to friends: ask if they mind correcting even your tiniest mistakes, so that you can eliminate them from your speech. Talk to strangers: challenge yourself by chatting with kids, with teens, with adults of all ages. Their speaking styles and speeds will vary greatly, so the more you practice, the better you'll do. Also talk to non-native speakers, to improve your understanding of all different kinds of accented French.
- Practice speaking French, whether or not you're in France
- Online speaking practice
- Solo speaking practice
Beyond the four skills
To perfect your French grammar, sign up for a free account to get your personalized study program based on your French level test.
Related info: Official French Tests & Diplomas | French Test Prep
