Training for the TEF IRN 2025
What is the TEF IRN ?
A specific version of the French Evaluation Test (TEF) for integration, residence and nationality, the TEF IRN is a language certificate aimed at non-French speakers aged over 16. It is particularly relevant for candidates involved in French administrative procedures, wishing to attest to their competence in French for:
- Obtaining a resident card;
- The application for French nationality;
- Promoting the citizenship journey with the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII);
- Professional practice in the private security sector.
This certification, issued by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Paris Île-de-France), benefits from the official recognition of the French Ministry of the Interior.
The certificate is valid for 2 years following the examination date.
The TEF IRN tests
The TEF IRN includes four compulsory tests to be carried out during the same session: written comprehension, oral comprehension, written expression, oral expression.
Reading comprehension
This test tests your ability to read and assimilate written materials from everyday life: administrative documents, letters, articles, literary texts, etc. It includes 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with 4 options, only one of which is correct, for a total duration of 30 minutes.
Listening comprehension
This component assesses your ability to understand spoken French in a variety of situations: voicemails, conversations, radio broadcasts, interviews, street surveys, etc. The format remains the same, with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with 4 options. The test consists of 20 questions spread over 20 minutes.
Written expression
This test tests your writing skills over 30 minutes divided into 2 sections:
- Section A (10 minutes): write a message of at least 40 words to ask for news;
- Section B (20 minutes): explain your motivations to convince in at least 100 words.
Oral expression
This part tests your ability to communicate orally in front of an examiner for 10 minutes divided into 2 sections:
- Section A (5 minutes): calling and asking questions about a service;
- Section B (5 minutes): Helping a friend make a decision.
Understanding the notation
The TEF IRN works as a placement test that determines your language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Each test section is scored on a scale of 0 to 499 points. The results report details the scores per section, the associated CEFR level, and your overall level, ranging from A1 (elementary level) to B2 (intermediate level).
Here is the equivalence table between TEF scores and CECRL levels:
|
Score
|
CEFR equivalence
|
|
0 to 99 points
|
A1 not reached
|
|
100 to 199 points
|
A1
|
|
200 to 299 points
|
A2
|
|
300 to 399 points
|
B1
|
|
400 to 499 points
|
B2
|
Results are communicated by email approximately 2 weeks after the test.
Please note: For a long-term resident card, level A2 is required (B1 from January 1, 2026); to obtain French nationality, level B1 is required (B2 from January 1, 2026).
Are you considering immigrating to Canada or Quebec? Do you want to continue your studies in France? Visit the TEF preparation page , which covers all TEF exams:
How to train for the TEF IRN ?
Successful preparation for the TEF IRN begins with a thorough understanding of the test format and the specific requirements of each test. Regardless of the format you choose, you can practice from home with comprehensive online resources.
To familiarize yourself with the instructions, use a variety of materials: interactive practical exercises, examples of real tests, explanatory videos, practice tests in exam conditions.
As an exclusive partner of the CCI Paris Île-de-France, PrepMyFuture is the only official TEF preparation provider, allowing us to offer you unique and official practice exams. In addition, the complete TEF IRN training platform includes:
- 1 mini TEF to familiarize yourself with the exam;
- More than 100 detailed course sheets;
- Over 2,200 practice questions.
- 2 official practice tests.
How to register for the exam ?
Registration is done directly through a certified examination center, in France or internationally. Refer to the official directory of centers where you can take the TEF IRN , then contact the selected establishment for registration details, schedule, and required documents.
Following your registration, you will receive an official invitation with practical information: date, times, address and instructions.
Where to take the test ?
The TEF is organized in France and internationally in certified centers (Alliances Françaises, training organizations, etc.). The complete list of examination centers is available online.
Why take the TEF IRN ?
The TEF IRN is official proof of your French language proficiency, recognized by the French Ministry of the Interior for procedures related to the OFII citizenship program, the long-term resident card, and naturalization. This test has also been approved by France Compétences since October 2024, which allows you to use your Personal Training Account (CPF) to cover the cost of taking the test.
Beyond its administrative utility, the TEF IRN enhances your professional career by highlighting your level of French to employers. On a personal level, it allows you to objectively assess your progress and adjust your learning goals according to your actual level.
Tips for passing the TEF IRN
Your performance depends primarily on your preparation: familiarizing yourself with the exam format and practicing regularly will help you assimilate the instructions, gain confidence, develop the necessary reflexes, and maximize your score. Plan your preparation in advance to maximize your chances of success!
Regarding reading comprehension and vocabulary structure, diversify your reading (press, recipes, literature) to improve reading speed and enrich vocabulary. For listening comprehension, expose yourself frequently to French audio content (podcasts, videos, radio broadcasts) to develop listening comprehension.
On the day, take the time to thoroughly understand the instructions. Please note that all tests must take place over a single day. For all versions, take advantage of our free videos and practice with our official practice exams. Start your training today!
