TEF Canada vs TCF Canada: Which Exam Should You Take?
TEF Canada and TCF Canada both prove your French for Canadian immigration, but they are run, scored and structured differently. Here's how to pick the right one for your file.
If you're applying for Express Entry, Quebec immigration, citizenship, or a study or work permit, you've probably run into two exam names: TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Both are accepted by IRCC as proof of French proficiency. Neither one is "easier" in a way that changes your result, but they differ enough in format that the right choice can save you weeks of preparation.
What they have in common
Both exams test the same four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. IRCC converts the results of either exam to the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC), the French version of the Canadian Language Benchmarks. A given NCLC level means the same thing whichever exam you took. Results from both are valid for 2 years for immigration purposes.
Where they differ
Who runs them: TEF Canada is run by Le français des affaires, part of CCI Paris Île-de-France. TCF Canada is run by France Éducation international. Both are taken at approved test centres, and availability varies by city. Your first practical filter is often simply which exam has a test date near you.
How they are scored: TEF Canada scores all four skills on a 0–699 scale. TCF Canada scores listening and reading on a 0–699 scale, and writing and speaking out of 20. IRCC then converts each skill score to an NCLC level using its official equivalency chart.
Question style: Listening and reading are multiple-choice on both exams, but each test structures its tasks and prompts differently. Writing and speaking follow different task formats too. Working through sample tasks from both is the quickest way to see which style suits you.
Results timing: Turnaround for results can differ by test centre and by exam. Check the centre's posted timeline before you book, because application deadlines won't wait for a slow result.
How to choose
- Check which exam is offered near you, and how soon.
- Try sample tasks from both exams and note which format feels more natural.
- Set your target NCLC level for your pathway. For example, Express Entry's French bonus needs NCLC 7 or higher in all four skills.
Either exam can get you the NCLC result IRCC is looking for. The right one is the one whose format, schedule and test centre fit your timeline.
Not sure where you stand? Try our free NCLC estimator or take the free placement test. Still undecided between TEF and TCF? Book a free 15-minute call and we'll help you choose.
A free 15-minute call to look at your level and your pathway.