TEF Canada vs TCF Canada: How to Choose the Right French Test for Canadian Immigration
Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada) and Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada) are both officially recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and accepted for Express Entry, citizenship, and other economic immigration streams
(CanadaVisa).
Structure and Format Comparison
| Section | TEF Canada | TCF Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 40 multiple choice questions in 40 minutes | 39 multiple choice questions in about 35 minutes |
| Reading | 40 multiple choice questions in 60 minutes | 39 multiple choice questions in 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 2 open-ended tasks (15 minutes) | 3 progressively difficult tasks (12 minutes) |
| Writing | 2 open-ended tasks in 60 minutes | 3 tasks of increasing difficulty (60 minutes) |
TEF includes open-response tasks, while TCF relies more heavily on multiple-choice and structured tasks
(Kochiva,
Learn French in Vancouver).
Scoring and Validity
- Both exams use CEFR levels (A1–C2) aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB/NCLC), and results are valid for two years
(Wikipedia). - TEF provides sectional scores, while TCF gives a single global proficiency score aligned with CEFR
(Kochiva).
Purpose and Administrative Oversight
- TEF Canada is administered by the Paris Chamber of Commerce & Industry and widely used for immigration and academic purposes
(Wikipedia). - TCF Canada is created by France Éducation International and accepted by IRCC for immigration and citizenship
(Alliance Française Vancouver).
Which One Is Easier?
- TEF may be more demanding in writing and reading, especially due to the creative “fait divers” task
(CanadaVisa Forum). - TCF is often seen as more structured and user-friendly, especially for those familiar with DELF formats.
- TEF allows previewing questions before audio, while TCF does not
(Reddit Discussion).
How to Decide
- Your academic or writing strength: TEF involves open-response and creativity.
- Test prep background: Familiarity with DELF-style exams may make TCF easier.
- Score reporting: TEF offers section-specific scores, unlike TCF.
- Test availability: Check your local test centre’s schedule
(Learn French Vancouver). - CLB score conversion for immigration: Both exams are valid
(CLB Wikipedia).
Reference Links
- Alliance Française Vancouver – Difference between TEF and TCF
- Kochiva – TEF vs TCF Canada: Detailed comparison
- Meridean – Difference Between TEF and TCF Exam
- Borderpass.ai – TCF vs TEF: Proficiency testing for Canada
- Learn French in Vancouver – Which exam suits Canadian PR?
- Wikipedia – TEF and TCF background and recognition
- CanadaVisa Forum – Real candidate feedback
Final Thoughts
TEF Canada and TCF Canada are both fully accepted by Canadian immigration authorities, but your decision should depend on:
- Your strengths (e.g., writing vs structured answers)
- Preferred scoring format
- Comfort with speaking and listening format
- Test availability in your region
If you’re more confident in creative tasks and want detailed section breakdowns, TEF Canada may be your best choice. If you prefer structured, progressive tasks, TCF Canada is a solid option.
