How does the TEF test work?

Explanations on the conditions for passing the TEF

How does the TEF test work?

The TEF (French Evaluation Test, What is the TEF? ) is a test which aims to assess the candidate's mastery of French: this test may be necessary for people wishing to immigrate to France or Canada, for example.

Learn more about how the TEF Canada program works.

Registration

You must be at least 16 years old to take this test. First, find out which centers are authorized to administer this test near you. You can register directly with them.

If you are taking the TEF Canada, be warned. When you register, certain information will be collected in accordance with Canadian immigration laws: if the test results are conclusive, this information will be transmitted to Canadian authorities. Objecting to this transmission will see your immigration application refused by the authorities .

Conditions of award

You must arrive 30 minutes early on the day and bring with you a valid ID, the completed registration form, and your invitation, which will have been given to you following your registration. You will also need to sign a sign-in sheet and double-check the spelling of your name: if there is a mistake, correct it. Once the questions have been distributed, the invigilator will start the session. No exit is permitted during the MCQ tests or during the written expression (1 hour) .

The tests

You choose the number of tests you will take when you register for the test .

In detail, the tests are as follows:

First three sections in multiple choice format

Reading comprehension – 60 minutes, 40 questions, 699 points.
Listening comprehension – 60 minutes, 40 questions, 699 points.
Vocabulary and Structure – 30 minutes, 40 questions, 699 points.

For each question, there are 4 possible answers, only 1 is correct . 1 point for each correct answer, 0 for each incorrect answer or for choosing more than one answer. The test is taken on a computer or in writing, depending on the examination center.

Two sections of expression

Oral expression – 15 minutes, 2 tests, 699 points.
Written expression – 60 minutes, 2 subjects, 699 points.
The TEF written expression test in detail

You are assessed on your communication skills (clarity, organization of speech) and on your grammar and vocabulary. Oral expression is done in front of a jury approved by the examination center.

End of the tests

At the end of the tests, check that you have signed your answer sheets for the multiple choice questions and that you have completed the cover page of your written expression copy ( name and identification number ) before returning them.

Your results will not be communicated to you immediately: there is a delay of 4 to 6 weeks. You can obtain a duplicate, but there will be an additional fee.

The certificate you will receive will specify for each test:

the number of points obtained;
the level reached (A1 to C2 of the CEFR - Understanding the CEFR levels ) ;
a comment on your general level of French.

Retake the tests

Results are valid for two years. After that, it's assumed your level will have improved. You can also decide to retake the test if you're not satisfied with your results. However, a period of two months is necessary between two successive attempts .