TCF Canada Exam Overview
The TCF Canada (Test de Connaissance du Français pour le Canada) is a comprehensive French language exam designed for both Francophones and non-native speakers. It evaluates proficiency and skills in the French language.
Recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Quebec Ministry of Immigration and Cultural Communities (MICC), the TCF Canada serves as official proof of language proficiency for permanent residency applications, Quebec Selection Certificates, and Canadian citizenship.
Note: The TCF Canada is an in-person exam and is not available online.
Components of TCF Canada
Explore the four tests that make up the TCF Canada, the key assessment for evaluating your general French language skills. The TCF Canada measures your listening and reading comprehension as well as your oral and written expression. The comprehension tests feature 39 multiple-choice questions, organized by increasing difficulty, with only one correct answer for each question. The expression tests consist of three tasks each for both oral and written assessments. Upon completion, you will receive a level certificate valid for two years. Start learning today with the TCFprep.ca!
Oral expression
- 3 exercises
- 12 minutes in total
- Task 1: Structured interview, no prep (2 min)
- Task 2: Interaction exercise, with prep (5.5 min)
- Task 3: Express opinion, no prep (4.5 min)
Listening comprehension
- 4 sections – 39 questions
- 35 minutes
- Multiple choice questionnaire (MCQ)
Reading Comprehension
- 4 sections – 39 questions
- 1 hour
- Multiple choice questionnaire (MCQ)
Written expression
- 3 exercises
- 1 hour
- Task 1: Write a short message (60–120 words)
- Task 2: Write a report or story (120–150 words)
- Task 3: Write a comparative text (120–180 words)
TESTS TAKEN FROM THE REAL TCF EXAM
BASIC
-
5 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
5 Reading Comprehension Tests
-
30 Written Expression Topics
-
40 Oral Expression Topics
STANDARD
-
10 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
10 Reading Comprehension Tests
-
70 Written Expression Topics
-
100 Oral Expression Topics
PREMIUM
-
20 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
19 Written Comprehension Tests
-
125 Written Expression Topics
-
160 Oral Expression Topics
Not sure about your current French level?
Registration
STEP 1
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Further QuestionsPractice through FREE Sample PDFs
Oral expression
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Reading Comprehension
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Listening comprehension
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Written expression
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Free Mock Test Practice
Written expression
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Oral expression
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Reading Comprehension
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Listening comprehension
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Candidates
The TCF Canada is ideal for individuals looking to assess their French proficiency for immigration applications to Canada or Quebec, as well as for Canadian citizenship applications.
Both the IRCC and the MICC acknowledge this exam as an official measure of language skills.
Exam Details
Computer-Based Exams
The written comprehension, oral comprehension, and written expression components of the exam are completed using a computer.
At the beginning of the session, the supervisor will give you a unique access code, which you’ll use to log into the online testing system.
Once logged in, carefully follow the on-screen instructions provided for each part of the exam.
The TCF Canada consists of four modules:
Reading Comprehension:
60 minutes – 39 questions – 699 points
Purpose:
This section assesses your skill in reading and understanding written texts.
Structure:
The test is divided into 4 parts, containing a total of 39 questions.
These questions are distributed across 40 screens, which include instructions and section transitions.
Time Limit:
You will have 1 hour to complete this section.
Question Type:
The test is presented in the form of a multiple-choice questionnaire.
Each question offers 4 possible answers, but only one is correct. You may move freely between questions throughout the test.
Scoring:
Correct answer: 1 point
Incorrect or unanswered question: 0 points
Listening Comprehension:
Approximately 40 minutes – 39 questions – 699 points
Purpose:
This section evaluates your ability to understand spoken French through listening to audio recordings.
Structure:
The test consists of 4 parts, containing a total of 39 questions.
These are spread across 40 screens, including instructional and transition screens.
Time Limit:
The total duration for this section is 35 minutes.
Question Format:
The test is presented as a multiple-choice questionnaire.
Each question offers 4 answer options, with only one correct choice.
You must answer each question in sequence, as it is not possible to return to previous questions once you’ve moved on.
Audio Instructions:
Each audio clip is played only once.
Before the audio begins, you are given a few seconds to read the question.
After the audio ends, you have a short period to select your answer.
Scoring:
Correct answer: 1 point
Incorrect or unanswered question: 0 points
Written Expression:
60 minutes – 3 exercises – 699 points
Purpose:
This section is designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively in written French.
Structure:
The test is divided into three parts.
Time Allocation:
Total duration: 1 hour
Task 1 –
Write a short message to inform, describe, or explain something to specific recipients (60–120 words).Task 2 –
Write a report or story with opinions or arguments, addressed to multiple readers (120–150 words).- Task 3 –
Compare two viewpoints from given texts and express your opinion in a structured response (120–180 words).
Typing Special Characters:
If the physical keyboard does not include French-specific characters (such as é, è, ç, à, etc.), a virtual keyboard will be available on screen to help you type them correctly.
Oral Expression:
12 minutes – 3 tasks – 699 points
This test evaluates the candidate’s ability to express themselves verbally in French and is conducted in person in a one-on-one format with an examiner.
Purpose:
The goal is to assess your ability to communicate effectively in spoken French during an interactive exchange.
Structure:
The test is divided into three tasks:
Task 1 – Structured interview (2 minutes, no preparation):
Demonstrate your ability to engage in a basic conversation with someone you do not know (the examiner).Task 2 – Interaction exercise (5.5 minutes, including 2 minutes of preparation):
Show your ability to obtain information in an everyday situation. The roles of both the candidate and the examiner will be provided in the instructions.- Task 3 – Expressing a point of view (4.5 minutes, no preparation):
Speak spontaneously and convincingly in response to a question selected by the examiner, demonstrating your ability to present and support your opinion.
Total Duration: 12 minutes
Additional Information:
The entire oral exam is recorded for quality assurance and possible secondary evaluation.
Want to apply for Canadian citizenship?
Two mandatory tests must be taken:
Listening comprehensionOral expression
– IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
Get ready for the TCF Canada exam ahead of your session!
Prepare in advance to boost your chances of success on the test.
You can choose to study at home, online, or even at a test center, depending on your time and available resources.
This website offers a variety of tools to help you familiarize yourself with the test format and practice effectively.
On the Day of the Exam
Exam Day Guidelines
On the day of your examination, you must arrive at the designated test centre at the exact time indicated on your summons. Latecomers will not be permitted to enter the examination room once the test has started, so punctuality is essential.
Check-In Procedure
Upon arrival, a supervisor will verify your identity using your official photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or national identity card) and your summons notice.
You will be asked to confirm your personal details (name, date of birth, and email address) and sign electronically on a tablet.
A photograph of each candidate will be taken before the exam begins.
Ensure all personal information is accurate, as it will appear on your certificate of results. Any errors must be reported and corrected immediately.
Items and Conduct in the Examination Room
To maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination, the following rules apply:
All mobile phones and electronic devices must be completely switched off.
The use of dictionaries, notes, or any reference documents is strictly prohibited.
Only your valid photo ID is allowed on the table; all other personal items must be kept away.
Communication between candidates is strictly forbidden throughout the entire duration of the test.
During the comprehension and oral expression sections, no draft paper, notes, or reference materials are permitted.
No payments will be accepted once the exam has started.
Candidates may not leave the room during computer-based testing for any reason.
Test Session Rules
During the multiple-choice section (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes) and the written expression test (1 hour), candidates are not allowed to exit the examination room, except in the case of a medical emergency supported by an official medical certificate.
Any form of cheating, misconduct, or attempted fraud will result in immediate removal from the exam room and may lead to disqualification from future exams, as determined by France Éducation international.
TCF Canada Exam Results
- Your test results will be available approximately 2 weeks after your exam date. You will receive an email containing a link to access a secure online portal (please note that no paper certificate will be issued). From this digital platform, you can download your official certificate of results.
- The certificate is detailed and personalized, showing your total score, your level of French proficiency, and comments on your overall language skills. View a sample test result now.
- Candidates may retake the test, but there must be a minimum waiting period of 30 days between each registration.
The results are valid for two years.
This certificate serves as an official document that can be submitted to Canadian authorities for your administrative processes.
- Each certificate is personalized and includes your photo and signature.
For each test taken, the certificate provides:
- the number of points earned,
- the level achieved,
- a description of your overall proficiency in French.
Your certificate provides your score for each test, measured on a scale from 0 to 699 points.
It also officially indicates your language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ranging from A1 to C2.
Additionally, it confirms your language proficiency level on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens – NCLC) scale, from level 1 to 12.
Note: Your certificate will be stored by our services for a period of 10 years. Be sure to save a copy for any use beyond that timeframe. Recommendation for Success
- Assess your current French level to better understand your starting point.
- Candidates at the B2 Advanced level can focus on targeted study strategies for the TCF Canada exam.
- Beginner and Intermediate candidates should focus on foundational skills and review available resources on TCFCanada.ca for effective preparation.
Please note: All tests must be completed on the same day for your certificate to be recognized by Canadian authorities.
Further Questions? We got You.
Your certificate of results is valid for two years from the date of issue.
For the latest official information on immigration to Canada, visit the IRCC website.
For immigration to Canada:
The minimum required level depends on the program you’re applying for. For instance, the Express Entry program requires a CLB level 7 for all tests, while the Mobilité Francophone program requires a CLB level 5.
To learn more about the required levels for each program, visit the Canadian IRCC website.
For citizenship procedures:
A CLB level 4 is required for both the speaking and listening tests.
For more details, refer to the Canadian IRCC website.
For immigration to Canada:
The French test may not always be mandatory, depending on the immigration program. For more information, visit the Canadian IRCC website.
For citizenship applications:
To learn about TCF Canada exemptions, visit the Canadian IRCC website.
When you register for TCF Canada, France Éducation international collects certain personal information to process your application in accordance with Canadian immigration laws.
If you meet the required level, your personal data will be shared with Canadian authorities. It will not be disclosed to other third parties. If you object to this transmission or wish to modify or delete your data, your immigration or citizenship application may not be processed by the Canadian authorities.
France Éducation International will retain your data for 10 years. Any data shared with Canadian authorities will be stored in compliance with Canadian law.
The information collected may also be used for studies and surveys to improve our services. In such cases, data from surveys will not be shared with third parties and will be retained for one year.
In accordance with the French Data Protection Act of January 6, 1978, as amended, and the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679, you have the right to access, rectify, or delete your personal data. You can exercise these rights by contacting fei-plus@france-education-international.fr
To take the exam, you must be at least 16 years old. No educational qualifications are needed.
Each test center determines its own registration fees. Costs may differ depending on the location and the number of tests taken.
The TCF Canada offers several options to accommodate candidates with disabilities or those experiencing challenges with digital literacy.
To request special accommodations, you must provide your test center with a medical certificate before registering. This certificate should:
Describe the nature of your disability, and
Include your doctor’s recommendations for necessary adjustments during the test.
If the test center identifies difficulties related to digital literacy, it may offer support and/or alternative arrangements, such as completing the written expression test manually.
France Éducation International will review your request promptly and inform the test center about any approved adjustments.
If you are exempted from one or more sections of the exam, you will only be charged for the parts you complete.
Once submitted, your registration is final, and any fees paid are non-refundable.
If you need to cancel before the test date or are absent on the day of the exam due to serious reasons (such as illness, work obligations, or the death of a close family member), you must provide your test center with official documentation (e.g., a medical or employer’s certificate).
France Éducation International will review the provided evidence and may offer you the opportunity to reschedule your test at no additional cost.
If you withdraw without a valid reason or fail to appear without justification, no refunds will be issued. By registering, you agree to these terms and conditions.
In cases of fraud, falsification, or any disruption to the proper conduct of the exam session, the disciplinary committee of the France Éducation International will impose sanctions.
During the exam, the following actions are strictly prohibited:
Viewing and/or copying another candidate’s answers or work.
Using the Internet or any communication device (such as computers, smartphones, smartwatches, etc.).
Consulting external materials (such as papers, books, or electronic devices).
Reciting memorized texts. Candidates must provide original work, both written and oral, rather than repeating an article or a memorized text. Plagiarism will be penalized.
It is also forbidden to falsify any results certificate issued by the TCF, awarded by the France Éducation International.
Penalties for Fraud or Forgery:
Notification: The candidate will be notified within 48 hours via email, acknowledging the current procedure. This email will inform the candidate of their right to defend themselves and to be represented by a lawyer, if desired. The candidate will also be given the date for the disciplinary committee meeting and may submit their comments within 15 days of receiving the email. The final decision (sanction or no sanction) will be communicated by registered mail.
Penalties: If fraud is confirmed, the following sanctions will be applied:
Cancellation of the candidate’s results.
A temporary ban on taking the exam for a period of:
One year for fraud or cheating during the exam.
Two years for identity theft or forgery of a certificate.
Appeals: The candidate has the right to appeal the disciplinary committee’s decision within 2 months of receiving the notification.
Status Update: After the completion of the sanction, the candidate will be allowed to retake the exam.
Please note: Officials from Canadian or Quebec ministries, as well as schools or universities, have direct access to the results obtained in France Éducation International exams.
Confidentiality of Exam Materials
Exam content is confidential. Any reproduction and/or distribution, in whole or in part, by any means (photographs, photocopies, internet, smartphones, social networks, etc.) without prior authorization from the France Éducation International department is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with this rule may result in appropriate actions being taken, such as invalidation of the award, banning from the TCF exam, or legal proceedings.
If your physical keyboard doesn’t include these special characters, you can use the on-screen virtual keyboard to access them easily.
To enter your test results on your IRCC online profile, use the scores listed in the “Old equivalence score” column of your results certificate.
Please note:
The “LIST Test Results Form or Certificate Number” refers to the first part of the number located at the bottom left of your certificate, appearing before the dash.
The PIN is the second part of this number, found after the dash.
You may take the TCF Canada as many times as you wish. However, please note that there must be a minimum waiting period of 30 days between each test session.
Your results are sent to you by email, including a link to a secure digital platform where you can download your certificate.
Be sure to check your spam or junk mail folder, as the message may have been filtered there.
Your primary point of contact regarding your results is your test centre. They will be the first to receive any updates once your results are available.
Feel free to contact them directly for more information or assistance.
The TCF (Test d’évaluation de français) is assessed according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Even if a candidate does not reach the A1 level, a corresponding level is still assigned based on their performance.
Each CEFR level includes specific descriptors for written and oral skills, outlining what candidates are expected to demonstrate at each stage.
The TCF scoring system is also aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens – NCLC). TCF Canada certificates indicate the NCLC level achieved for each test component.
Written and Oral Comprehension
These sections consist of multiple-choice questions, with only one correct answer per question.
Correct answer: 1 point
Incorrect or unanswered: 0 points
The number of correct answers is not the final score. Instead, it is converted into a calibrated score that adjusts for the varying difficulty levels of different test questions.
Written and Oral Expression
Written Expression: Candidates must complete three writing tasks related to everyday situations. These are assessed by two independent, trained, and experienced evaluators.
Oral Expression: This test includes three role-playing scenarios based on real-life contexts. It is evaluated by two separate assessors: first, by the examiner present during the test, and then by a second evaluator who reviews the recording.
Both expression sections are scored using standardized evaluation grids based on several criteria, including communication ability, vocabulary, grammar, structure, fluency, and coherence.
The final score is a calibrated result that reflects all these criteria and accounts for differences in test difficulty.
For immigration to Canada:
The minimum required level depends on the specific immigration program you are applying for. For instance, Express Entry programs typically require a minimum of NCLC level 7, while the Francophone Mobility Program requires at least NCLC level 5.
To find the exact language requirements for each program, please refer to the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
For Canadian citizenship:
A minimum of NCLC level 4 is required in both oral expression and oral comprehension.
Further details are available on the IRCC website.
Yes, you can submit an appeal within 30 days from the date your results certificate is issued.
To submit your appeal, you will find all the necessary information on this page.
Important: Your appeal will only be considered if there was an anomaly or serious malfunction during your test. It is crucial to report any issues to your supervisor on the day of the test.
The French organization and its partner centers make every effort to ensure that TCF tests are administered under the best possible conditions, ensuring fairness for all candidates.
The evaluation process and criteria are consistent for all applicants. Both oral exam recordings and written submissions are anonymous for evaluators (only the candidate number is visible).
If you experienced a serious issue or malfunction during your test, we encourage you to file an appeal.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact us at:
TCFprep.ca
- Email: tcfprep.ca@gmail.com
- Website: Visit our Contact Us Page – TCF Canada
We’re here to help!
TESTS TAKEN FROM THE REAL TCF EXAM
BASIC
-
5 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
5 Reading Comprehension Tests
-
30 Written Expression Topics
-
40 Oral Expression Topics
STANDARD
-
10 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
10 Reading Comprehension Tests
-
70 Written Expression Topics
-
100 Oral Expression Topics
PREMIUM
-
20 Listening Comprehension Tests
-
19 Written Comprehension Tests
-
125 Written Expression Topics
-
160 Oral Expression Topics