Overview
The Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) is an international French test issued since 1998 by CCI Paris Ile-de-France through Le français des affaires. It measures written and spoken French. Which version you take depends on your goal.
Versions
| Version | Purpose |
|---|---|
| TEF Études | Entering a school or university in France or another French-speaking country |
| TEF Canada | Immigration or citizenship in Canada |
| TEF Québec (TEFAQ) | Immigration to Quebec, and Canadian citizenship |
| TEF Intégration Résidence Nationalité (IRN) | A 10-year resident card or naturalisation in France |
Depending on the version, the TEF has between 1 and 5 modular tests: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, vocabulary and syntax, written expression and oral expression. From 1 April 2025 the TEF IRN changed so that it can certify levels from A1 to B2.
Exam pattern
TEF Canada has four tests (reading, listening, written expression, oral expression); its detailed format is on the TEF Canada page. This page does not list the formats of the other versions, because the sources reviewed describe only TEF Canada in detail. Check the organiser's page for the version you need.
Marking and results
For TEF and TEFAQ used in Quebec, the Quebec government's tables place scores of 100 to 699 on a scale running from A1 up to C2. In those tables, 600 to 699 corresponds to C2 and 100 to 199 to A1. Results for TEF Canada are given as CLB levels.
Validity
The organiser states that TEF certification is valid for two years from the date of the test.
Recognition
The organiser lists recognition by the French Ministry of Education, the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the French Ministry of the Interior, IRCC, the Quebec immigration ministry and the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration.
How to apply
Choose the version your institution or immigration programme names, then register at an official test centre. Fees and dates are set by the centre.
Preparation tips
Confirm the exact TEF version before you book; results from another version may not be accepted.
Practise all the modules in your version under timed conditions.
Which TEF should I take?
Take the version named in the requirements of the body that will receive your result.