TCF French Exam Guide: Format, Types & Preparation Tips

The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) is an official French language proficiency exam recognized worldwide. Whether you need proof of your French level for immigration, university admission, or professional purposes, the TCF is a flexible test designed for non-native speakers of French. Valid for two years, the TCF assesses your ability to understand and use French in everyday, academic, and professional contexts.

Key Information

Official French exam recognized worldwide, valid for 2 years
Required for immigration, universities, and professional certification
Several versions: TCF Tout Public, TCF Canada, TCF Québec, TCF DAP
Tests listening, reading, grammar, writing, and speaking
Results mapped to CEFR levels (A1 → C2)
Preparation with mock tests and guided lessons boosts success

Why Take the TCF?

Immigration → Required for certain visas and residency applications (for example, TCF Canada or TCF Québec).
Higher Education → Many French universities and Grandes Écoles require a valid TCF score.
Professional Use → Employers and institutions often ask for proof of French language proficiency.

👉 In short: if you need an official French exam in 2025, the TCF is one of the most recognized options available and widely accepted by French-speaking institutions.

Different Types of TCF

TCF Tout Public (General TCF)
- Open to anyone, regardless of background.
- Useful for personal, academic, or professional certification.
TCF Canada
- Specifically designed for Canadian immigration procedures.
- Assesses listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Other Versions
- TCF Québec → for immigration to Québec.
- TCF DAP → required for first-year university applications in France.

Test Format and Structure

The TCF consists of compulsory and optional sections:

Compulsory Tests (Multiple-choice questions):
- Listening Comprehension
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar & Vocabulary
Optional Tests (depending on your needs):
- Written Expression
- Oral Expression

⏱️ Duration: Between 1h30 and 2h45, depending on the chosen modules.

How Is the TCF Scored?

Your performance is measured on a scale corresponding to the CEFR levels (A1 → C2). Your official TCF certificate will indicate your level for each skill tested.

A1 = Beginner
B1 = Independent User
C1/C2 = Advanced Proficiency

Each section is scored separately, and your results are placed on the CEFR scale. Unlike the DELF/DALF where you pass or fail a level, the TCF gives you a certificate showing your precise level in each skill. This flexibility is why many institutions prefer the TCF: it reflects your current abilities rather than a fixed level.

TCF Score Scale -- CEFR Levels from A1 to C2

How to Prepare for the TCF

3 months before the exam → Familiarize yourself with the format using official TCF sample tests.
6 weeks before the exam → Focus on weak areas (grammar drills, vocabulary building, essay practice).
2-3 weeks before → Simulate the exam under timed conditions.
Ongoing → Improve your French every day: listen to podcasts, watch TV shows, read short articles, and practice speaking regularly.

👉 A combination of independent practice and guided preparation with a native French teacher gives you the best chance of success.

Prepare for the TCF with Interactive French

At Interactive French, we specialize in helping students succeed on the TCF through:

✅ Personalized preparation courses (online or in-person in Hong Kong)
✅ Mock exams under real conditions
✅ Targeted training for TCF Canada and TCF Tout Public
✅ Practical feedback to improve speaking and writing from a native French tutor

Our goal is simple: to help you achieve the TCF score you need with confidence.

Discover our TCF Prep Courses