The landscape.
French language certifications fall into two categories: diplomas (DELF and DALF) which are permanent, and tests (TEF) which expire after two years. All are scored against the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which runs from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery).
Which one you need depends entirely on what you’re trying to do. Canada PR? TEF Canada. French university? DELF B2. Permanent credential? DELF or DALF. Quebec immigration? TEF or TEFaQ only.
DELF & DALF — Lifetime diplomas.
DELF and DALF are level-specific exams. You register for the level you want to certify (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, or C2) and either pass or fail at that level. The diploma is valid for life, which makes it the strongest long-term credential. Most students targeting university admission in France need DELF B2. Those aiming for academic or research roles need DALF C1.
DELF Junior is available for ages 12–17, and DELF Prim for ages 8–11. The diplomas are identical to the adult version — the word “Junior” doesn’t appear on the certificate.
TEF Canada — The immigration exam.
TEF Canada is a single continuous exam — your score determines your CEFR level, rather than you choosing which level to attempt. The questions increase in difficulty as the test progresses. This is the exam most of our students take. It’s accepted by IRCC for Express Entry, Canadian citizenship, and by MIFI for Quebec immigration (as TEF or TEFaQ).
The CLB 7 target: CLB 7 corresponds to CEFR B2. Reaching this level in all four modules is where the significant CRS points kick in. Our TEF Canada prep course is designed specifically around this target.
Which exam should you take?
It depends on one thing: what you’re trying to achieve.
How The French Skool prepares you.
Our curriculum is aligned to CEFR levels A1 through B2, with exam-specific modules for TEF Canada and DELF. Goldy doesn’t just teach French — she teaches the specific French that these exams test, the way they test it, and the scoring patterns that determine your result.
- Structured CEFR progression: A1 → A2 → B1 → B2, each level building on the last
- TEF-specific practice: Timed mock tests, section-by-section strategy, score benchmarks for PR and citizenship
- Speaking preparation: The most underestimated section. Goldy runs dedicated speaking sessions with real-time feedback — critical for TEF’s 15-minute oral component
- Writing drills: TEF writing requires specific structures. Students learn argumentation patterns, not just grammar
- Exam logistics: Registration guidance, centre recommendations, timing strategy, what to expect on exam day
Not sure which exam? We’ll tell you.
Book a free demo class. Goldy assesses your level and recommends the right exam and timeline for your goal.
Book a Free Demo Class →