DELF, DALF, TCF, or TEF — what's the difference?
Four names that get thrown around interchangeably, and they're not interchangeable. Here's what each one really is, in plain language.
Lerniyo issues none of these exams — DELF, DALF, TCF, and TEF are run by France Éducation international, the CCI Paris Île-de-France, and other official centers. Requirements vary by consulate and program and change over time — always confirm the current rule with the official source for your specific file.
DELF, DALF, TCF and TEF in one minute
DELF and DALF are diplomas: you pass one level, and the diploma never expires. TCF and TEF are scored tests that place you on the whole CEFR scale in one sitting, and their results are usually accepted for about two years. Which one you need depends on the file or program: a one-time diploma, or a recent score.
This guide compares the four side by side, shows which situation calls for which exam and how to check your requirement. It describes the exams in general terms, and rules change, so always confirm with the official source of your program.
Last updated:
The four French exams side by side
| Aspect | DELF | DALF | TCF | TEF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Run by | France Éducation international | France Éducation international | France Éducation international | CCI Paris Île-de-France |
| Levels | A1, A2, B1, B2 (one diploma per level) | C1 and C2 | A1 to C2 in one scored test | A1 to C2 in one scored test |
| Result | Pass or fail for the level you sit | Pass or fail for C1 or C2 | A score and a level | A score and a level |
| Validity | The diploma does not expire | The diploma does not expire | Usually accepted for about two years | Usually accepted for about two years |
| Typical use | General proof of level; often accepted for French residence and some naturalization files | Advanced and academic proof, university admission in France | France files; TCF Canada for Canadian immigration | France files; TEF Canada, one of the two tests accepted for Express Entry French-language points |
The 4 exams
DELF
A diploma covering A1 to B2 — pass one level once, and the certificate is valid for life.
A1 · A2 · B1 · B2
General proof of level; often accepted for French residency and some naturalization files
DALF
A diploma covering C1 and C2 — the advanced continuation of the DELF, also valid for life.
C1 · C2
Advanced/academic proof of level, university admission in France
TCF
A scored test, not pass/fail, that places you on the full CEFR scale from A1 to C2 in one sitting.
A1 → C2 (scored)
France naturalization and residency files, and TCF Canada for Canadian immigration
TEF
Another scored test, similar structure to the TCF, run by the CCI Paris Île-de-France.
A1 → C2 (scored)
France residency files, and TEF Canada — one of the two French tests accepted for Canadian federal programs
So which one do you actually need?
If your goal is a permanent, one-time diploma and you're comfortable committing to a single level, DELF (up to B2) or DALF (C1-C2) is the simpler path. If your goal is Canada — citizenship or Express Entry — you almost always need a scored, dated TCF Canada or TEF Canada result converted to the NCLC, not a DELF/DALF diploma; check the current validity window (commonly around two years) before relying on an old score. If your goal is France specifically, both a diploma and a scored test can work depending on the program — the deciding factor is usually the specific permit or naturalization file's own rule, not a general preference for one exam over another.
Canada's NCLC — and Quebec's separate scale
Canada doesn't use the CEFR scale directly for federal programs. The NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens) is Canada's own scale, and it's what a TCF Canada or TEF Canada score gets converted into for citizenship (NCLC 4 minimum, ages 18-54) or Express Entry (NCLC 7 is the common target for full French points). Quebec runs its own, separately maintained scale — the échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français — for programs specific to settling in Quebec. The three scales (CEFR, NCLC, échelle québécoise) are related in spirit but not the same numbering, so double-check which one the program you're applying to actually asks for.
Which exam for which goal?
Start from the requirement, not from the exam. These are common situations; the specific file or program has the final word.
A residence permit or work file in France
Both a diploma and a scored test can work depending on the file. Read the file’s own rule.
French naturalization
Check the current rule of the file: it names the level and the accepted proofs.
Canada: Express Entry or other federal programs
You almost always need a recent TCF Canada or TEF Canada result converted to the NCLC, not a DELF or DALF diploma.
Studying in France
Universities and schools name their own proof, often a DELF B2 or a DALF C1, or a recent score. Check the admissions page.
A personal goal or a CV
A DELF diploma never expires, so it is a simple, lasting milestone.
Mistakes when choosing a French exam
- Taking the DELF for a Canadian federal program that asks for a recent TCF Canada or TEF Canada.
- Using a TCF or TEF result after its validity window. Confirm the exact window with your program.
- Confusing the TCF with the TCF Canada: they are different versions for different purposes.
- Treating NCLC and CEFR as the same scale. They are related but separate, and Quebec has its own scale.
- Booking an exam before checking which exam and which level the file names.
- Paying anyone who promises a guaranteed score or visa. Nobody can guarantee a result.
How to choose in five steps
A simple order that avoids wasted exam fees and time:
- 1
Find the official requirement
Open the page of your prefecture, university, employer or immigration program.
- 2
Write down the details
The accepted exams, the minimum level or score, and how long a result stays valid.
- 3
Pick the accepted exam that suits you
Think about diploma or scored test, the dates and centers available, and how fast you need the result.
- 4
Build the level first
Reach the level the exam tests, then practise its format with the official preparation material.
- 5
Book the official exam
Register through the official network or test center and leave time before your deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a DELF diploma for Canada?
For federal economic programs like Express Entry, no — the French-language points come from a scored TCF Canada or TEF Canada result converted to the NCLC. Other proofs of French knowledge may still be accepted elsewhere — check the specific program.
Do TCF and TEF scores expire?
Yes, typically — results are usually only accepted for around two years from the test date. Confirm the exact window with the program you're applying to.
Is the DALF harder than the DELF?
The DALF (C1-C2) covers the two most advanced CEFR levels — it sits above the DELF B2 (you do not have to pass the DELF first), and it targets academic/highly fluent use of French, so yes, it aims higher.
Does Lerniyo prepare me specifically for the TEF or TCF format?
Lerniyo's curriculum builds your real CEFR level (A1-C1), and its mock exams are styled after the DELF/DALF format. That gives you the language level every one of these exams actually tests — but practising the specific TCF/TEF question format happens through their own official prep materials.
Where can I take the DELF, DALF, TCF or TEF?
At authorised test centers, for example an Institut français or an Alliance française, and at centers of the test providers. Availability and dates vary, so check the official website.
Is the TCF or the TEF easier?
Neither is easier in general. They test the same skills in different formats. Take the one your file or program names.
Do I have to pass the DELF before taking the TCF?
No. The exams are independent, and you take the one your goal requires.
Should I take the TCF Canada or the TEF Canada?
Both are used for Canadian immigration, but a given program may name one. Check the program and book early.