The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) is an internationally recognized French language proficiency test administered by France Éducation international (an official public body under the French Ministry of Education). It is a standardized test that assesses the French language skills of non-native French speakers who need to demonstrate their level of French for immigration, academic, or professional purposes.

The TCF test evaluates general French language abilities in listening, reading, speaking, and writing, following the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) from A1 (beginner) to C2 (advanced). The results of the TCF exam are valid for a period of two years.

The TCF is officially recognized by:

• The French Ministry of the Interior (for citizenship, residence, and integration)

• The French Ministry of Higher Education

• The Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI)

• Campus France (for university applications)

• OFII (French Office for Immigration and Integration)

• Various academic institutions and employers across Francophone countries

TCF Exam Variants (Variantes de l’examen TCF)

The TCF offers several variants tailored to different objectives, enabling you to select the option that best suits your requirements.

TCF Tout Public (TCF TP)

The TCF Tout Public (Test de Connaissance du Français Tout Public) is the standard exam for certifying general French proficiency for academic, professional, or personal purposes. It includes three mandatory modules: listening, reading, and language structures (grammar and vocabulary). Speaking and writing modules are optional and can be added at registration, depending on the candidate's or institutional requirements.

Universities, employers, and international organizations use the TCF TP for official French language assessment. Individuals may also use it to monitor their progress. The TCF TP is scored on the CEFR scale from A1 to C2. It is widely recognized by Francophone institutions but not accepted for Canadian or Québec immigration.

TCF Canada

TCF Canada is intended for individuals applying for permanent residence or citizenship in Canada through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It provides official proof of French proficiency for programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and Canadian Experience Class. The test consists of four mandatory modules: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, all of which must be completed on the same day at an accredited center.

TCF Canada test scores correspond to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), which determine eligibility and ranking in Canada's point-based immigration system. Most applicants aim for a CLB 7 or higher, equivalent to a B2 level on the CEFR scale. The test is not modular; all components must be completed in one sitting. Results are typically available within a few weeks. Both TCF Canada and TEF Canada are recognized by IRCC.

​TCF Québec (TCFQ)

The TCF Québec is for individuals applying to immigrate to Québec and is officially recognized by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). It is a key requirement for Québec immigration, particularly under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP). The exam emphasizes oral proficiency, requiring listening and speaking modules. Reading and writing are optional and may be required for specific programs or to strengthen an application.

Candidates may take different modules on separate days, depending on availability and readiness. Each section is scored on the CEFR scale, with B1 or B2 commonly required. Unlike TCF Canada, TCF Québec allows applicants to focus on specific language skills.

​TCF IRN (Intégration, Résidence, Nationalité)

The TCF IRN is for individuals applying for French nationality, long-term residency, or participating in civic integration programs through the Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration (OFII). It consolidates previous TCF formats (TCF ANF and TCF Carte de résident) and focuses on essential communication skills for daily life in France. The exam includes four mandatory modules: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

The exam lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it shorter and more focused than the other TCF exams. Residency permit applicants must demonstrate at least A2 level proficiency in French, while citizenship applicants must show B1 level in both speaking and listening. The TCF IRN is especially relevant for those completing the Contrat d’intégration républicaine (CIR) or seeking work in regulated sectors such as private security. All components are evaluated according to CEFR standards, and results serve as official language certification for administrative procedures in France.

​TCF DAP (Demande d’Admission Préalable)

The TCF DAP (Test de Connaissance du Français – Demande d’Admission Préalable) is required for non-European Union students applying to the first year of undergraduate studies (Licence 1) in French universities or schools of architecture. Officially recognized by the French Ministry of Higher Education, it is part of the pre-admission process (DAP) for international applicants. The TCF DAP assesses whether students possess the French language skills necessary to succeed in academic courses taught in French.

This version includes three mandatory modules: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and written expression. The speaking component is optional and may be required or encouraged depending on the university and program. Results are mapped to the CEFR scale (A1–C2), and most institutions require a minimum of B2 to ensure students can fully participate in academic activities. Entry requirements vary, so students should confirm language expectations with their chosen institution before registering.

Overview of TCF Test Variants

TCF Exam Format (Format de l'examen TCF)

The TCF exam consists of five sections, grouped into mandatory and optional components, depending on the exam variant.

Who Should Take the TCF? (Qui devrait passer le TCF?)

• You're immigrating to Canada and need proof of French (TCF Canada).

• You're applying to Quebec immigration programs (TCFQ).

• You're applying for French citizenship and need to demonstrate B1 oral level (TCF ANF).

• You're applying for a French resident card and need an A2 level (TCF Carte de résident).

• You're a non-EU student seeking admission to a French university (TCF DAP).

• You want to certify your general French proficiency for work, personal growth, or academic goals (TCF TP).

TCF Marks Distribution (Répartition des notes du TCF)

The multiple-choice questions sections are marked out of 699. There is no pass mark per se; the test-taker will be evaluated based on the score they achieve, corresponding to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels.

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

Preparing for the TCF requires consistent study and targeted practice. The following steps can help you prepare effectively.

• Understand the format of your specific TCF test variant.

• Take official TCF practice tests to familiarize yourself with the types of questions.

• Focus on oral expression and written production, which are evaluated subjectively.

• Use authentic listening and reading materials to boost comprehension.

• Consider enrolling in a TCF test practice course if you require structured guidance.

TCF Preparation with Langma:

Langma’s TCF preparation program offers:

• Comprehensive coverage of all modules

• Full-length mock tests and CEFR-aligned evaluations

• Live feedback on speaking and writing performance

• Expert-led strategy sessions and exam simulations

• Time management techniques for exam-day success