TEF — French Evaluation Test
International reference exam created in 1998 by CCI Paris Île-de-France — recognised by 30+ countries for immigration, studies and professional life.
The French Evaluation Test (TEF)
Created in 1998 by CCI Paris Île-de-France, the French Evaluation Test (TEF) is an internationally recognised exam that measures your knowledge and skills in French.
TEF is officially recognised by:
Results are valid for two years.
What is TEF used for?
Studies in France
Enrol in a French school or university. Minimum score of 400/699 in written tests required.
French nationality
Obtain French nationality (B1 level) with TEF Integration, Residence and Nationality.
Residence card
Obtain a residence card in France (B1 or A2 level depending on the application).
CIR — Civic Integration
Validate your A1 level as part of the Republican Integration Contract (OFII).
Immigration to Canada
Immigrate to Canada (TEF Canada) or obtain Canadian nationality.
Immigration to Québec
Immigrate to Québec via the TEFAQ programme recognised by MIFI.
The 5 TEF tests
Depending on your objective and the procedures you are undertaking, choose the TEF version that includes the tests you need.
Listening Comprehension
Assess your ability to understand spoken French by listening to authentic audio documents (dialogues, broadcasts, announcements).
Reading Comprehension
Assess your ability to read and understand various written documents (articles, administrative texts, correspondence).
Oral Expression
Assess your oral communication ability — monologue, dialogue, argumentation with an interlocutor.
Written Expression
Assess your ability to express yourself in writing in French — summary, letter, argumentative essay.
Vocabulary & Structure
Assess your command of French vocabulary and grammatical structures.
Tests are assessed on a scale of 7 levels (0 to 6) corresponding to the 6 CEFR levels (A1 to C2) and the 12 Canadian language proficiency levels (NCLC/EQNCF).
TEF 2025 candidate nationalities
TEF 2025 breakdown by gender
Choose your TEF version
TEF Integration, Residence & Nationality
For residence card (A2), long-stay card (B1) or French nationality (B1). 4 mandatory tests.
Learn moreE-TEF Canada
Recognised by IRCC since 2002. 4 tests for immigration, 2 for Canadian citizenship.
Learn moreE-TEFAQ (Québec)
For immigration to Québec — 1 to 4 tests depending on the MIFI immigration programme.
Learn moreTEF for Studies in France
To enrol in a French university. Score ≥ 400/699 in written tests required.
Learn morePrepare for the TEF
Training tutorials, teaching resources and intensive preparation with our trainers.
AccessNationality Interview Preparation
Exam + nationality interview preparation package (4h) — €470.00. Preparation only — €170.00.
Learn moreUseful links
TEF – CEFR level correspondence table
TEF – CEFR level interpretation grid
Language level supporting documents
CCI training tutorials
Registration and examination conditions
TEF test catalogue
Register for TEF
Contact us to find out about the next available sessions at our accredited centre in Franconville.