The TCF (Test de connaissance du français) is an official French language test awarded by the French Ministry of Education. Unlike DELF and DALF, which have multiple levels, the TCF is a single test which evaluates your ability to use French for general purposes, grading your French proficiency from A1 to C2 according to the CEFR standard.
It's one of the requisites when applying to a French university, for French nationality, or for permanent residence in Québec.
Types of TCF exams and their structure
The TCF is available in different versions to meet specific needs or purposes.
TCF "tout public"
For anyone who wishes to have their French language skills assessed for personal, academic, or professional reasons. It is the most commonly taken version of the TCF exam and measures your proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking according to the CEFR levels.
The structure of the TCF "tout public" is:
- Listening comprehension (29 questions, 25 minutes)
- Reading comprehension (29 questions, 45 minutes)
- Speaking expression (12 minutes, 3 tasks)
- Writing expression (1 hour, 2 tasks)
TCF - Canada
Specifically tailored for those who plan to immigrate to Canada and need to prove their French language proficiency as part of the immigration process. The TCF for Canada is recognized by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and follows the same structure as the TCF "tout public." However, the scoring system is adapted to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).
The structure for the TCF - Canada is the same as the TCF "tout public", with the only difference that all four sections are obligatory, as they are required for Canadian immigration purposes.
TCF - Integration, Residence, and Nationality
For individuals applying for French citizenship or a residence permit in France. It consists of two compulsory sections: listening and speaking. The minimum required level for French nationality applications is B1, while for residence permits, the minimum level is A2.
The structure of the TCF - Integration, Residence, and Nationality is:
- Listening comprehension (29 questions, 25 minutes)
- Speaking expression (12 minutes, 3 tasks)
TCF Scoring and CEFR Levels
As mentioned before, all three versions of the TCF exam are scored based on the CEFR Standard. However, the TCF Canada results are converted to the CLB levels for immigration purposes.
It's not possible to fail the TCF. You can take it as many times as you like but you must leave 60 days between takes.
How to Register for the TCF Exam
Once you've found a test centre, the next step is to register for the exam. The registration process may vary slightly depending on the centre, but it typically involves filling out a registration form and paying the required fees.
How can I prepare for the TCF?
There are no specific ways to prepare for the TCF, as it tests your general ability, so any and all practice is good.
We suggest you take a look at our ever growing library of reading, writing and listening exercises and dedicate some time every day to practise specific areas you might need some work on. If you already know which area you'd like to focus on today, take a look at:
Take advantage of free online resources like the ones from our partners at Learn French with Alexa and Lawless French, you might also find TV5Monde's TCF strategies helpful.
Other TCF Resources
- TCF sur ordinateur demo (video + reading exercise)
- Manuel du candidat (PDF)
- Réussir le TCF (book)
- Approved TCF test centres
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Remember, the more you practise, the better your chances at passing the TCF.
So sign up for a free Progress with Lawless French account to get your personalised Study Plan based on your current French level and start practising daily with our kwizzes and exercises!
Related info: Official French Tests & Diplomas | French Test Prep
