TEF Canada: Full Guide to Format, Sections, Scoring & Preparation
The TEF Canada (Test d'évaluation de français) is one of two French tests accepted by IRCC for Canadian Permanent Residency and citizenship. If French is part of your Express Entry plan, understanding the exact format is the first step to a strong score.
The four sections
For immigration, the TEF Canada assesses all four language skills. In broad terms:
| Section | Time | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Reading (Compréhension écrite) | ~60 min | Multiple-choice |
| Listening (Compréhension orale) | ~40 min | Multiple-choice |
| Writing (Expression écrite) | ~60 min | 2 tasks |
| Speaking (Expression orale) | ~15 min | 2 tasks, with an examiner |
The full session runs to roughly 2 hours 55 minutes across the four mandatory sections. (A separate "Lexique et structure" module exists but is optional and not part of the core four for immigration.)
How TEF Canada scoring works
Each skill is scored and mapped to a NCLC level (the French equivalent of the CLB scale). For a strong Express Entry French bonus you're aiming for NCLC 7 in all four skills — remember it's all-or-nothing for the 50-point bonus. Results are typically valid for two years.
How to prepare (a realistic plan)
- Reach the level first: build a genuine B1–B2 foundation before drilling exam questions.
- Learn the exact format: practise each section in the real TEF structure so nothing surprises you on test day.
- Time yourself: the reading and listening sections move quickly — pacing is half the battle.
- Get speaking practice: the oral section trips up many self-studiers; rehearse the two task types aloud.
FrenchForIndia includes full TEF-style test simulations for all four skills, with instant scoring and CEFR feedback — and every lesson is explained in English, Hindi and Punjabi.
Confirm the current official format, sections and fees at TEF Canada — Le français des affaires and IRCC (Canada.ca). Details can change.