What is the DCL Exam? (Qu'est-ce que l'examen DCL?)

The DCL, or Diplôme de Compétence en Langue, is a professional national-level language diploma issued by the French Ministry of Education. It is specifically designed for adults and meets the needs of the business world in terms of using the French language in a professional context. The DCL certification, which is valid for a lifetime, provides you with long-term benefits. It’s beneficial for foreign nationals who want to begin the process of obtaining French nationality or international students looking to apply for a position in France, as it allows them to demonstrate their French linguistic skills to an employer.

DCL Exam Levels (Niveaux de l’examen DCL)

The DCL exam is available in different levels depending on the candidate's needs:

DCL FLE, or Français Langue Étrangère (French as a Foreign Language)

CEFR levels assessed: A2 to C1
Accepted for residence permit renewals: Level A2
Accepted for French naturalization: Level B1

DCL FP, or Français Professionnel (French for Professional Use)

CEFR levels assessed: A1 and A2
Certifies competence in operational French communication in professional situations.

DCL Exam Format (Format de l’examen DCL)

The DCL exam assesses five core communication competencies through a case study comprising a series of varied tasks, similar to those encountered in professional life.

Reading comprehension
Understanding of oral or French sign language (LSF)
Oral expression or expression in LSF
Written expression
Oral or LSF interaction

Exam Duration

DCL FLE: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
DCL FP: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

There is no separate oral or written section. All tasks are integrated within the simulation to reflect professional communication tasks (emails, summaries, phone calls, etc.).

DCL Scoring and Passing Criteria (Notation et critères de réussite du DCL)

There is no traditional ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ for the DCL Exam. Candidates receive a diploma that states the highest Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level they demonstrated during the test. Below are some key facts:

You can earn a diploma for A2, B1, B2, or C1 (for FLE) or A1–A2 (for FP).
You must complete all parts of the exam to receive a certificate.
If your performance is below A2 (FLE) or A1 (FP), no diploma is awarded.

DCL Exam Sessions (Sessions d’examen)

The DCL French Exams are organized three times a year (roughly every four months). R

The exam registration is managed by your training provider. It is held in official centers close to your place of residence. DCL Exam results are available within 1 to 3 months after the exam.

Who Should Take the DCL Exam? (Qui devrait passer l'examen DCL?)

The DCL is ideal for:

Non-native French speakers seeking professional validation of their language skills
Individuals applying for French citizenship or long-term residency
Professionals working in Francophone environments (e.g., business, healthcare, hospitality)
Job seekers and students aiming to enhance their employability
Anyone needing proof of CEFR-aligned French proficiency

How to Prepare for the DCL Exam? (Comment se préparer à l’examen DCL?)

Langma’s DCL Exam Preparation Course develops the practical French language skills needed for the Diplôme de Compétence en Langue (DCL) exam. The course offers structured, task-based training for both A1–A2 (DCL FP) and A2–C1 (DCL FLE) levels. Candidates benefit from targeted support, including role-plays, mock exams, and personalized feedback, to strengthen the five key competencies: reading, listening, speaking, writing, and interaction. This program is suitable for professionals, students, and those seeking French citizenship or long-term residency, ensuring thorough preparation for official certification.

Key Features: