TEF Certifications

Created in 1998 by the Paris Chamber of Commerce, the Test d’Evaluation de Français (TEF) is an international benchmark test that measures your level of competency in French.

Why take the TEF?

The TEF provides confirmation of one’s level of competency in French in any professional, academic or mobility-related context. 

How can I sign up?

See the TEF session date table below.  Click on the date for the type of TEF you wish to take, and complete the registration and payment form.  You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.  

The test begins at 11 a.m., but we can usually accommodate earlier or later start times upon request.  Additionally, we may be able to offer extra session dates based on demand.  Feel free to contact us if you’d like to request an additional session or register for a later date not yet posted.

You will be using a QUERTY keyboard. Special characters and accents will be displayed on your screen.

Important: 

We use PayPal as our primary payment gateway. It accepts most types of credit and debit cards.  You do not need a PayPal account to make a purchase on our website.

Test Format

Each version of the TEF consists of 4 or 5 of the following sections.   Except for the Oral Expression, all sections are taken on computer.

• Oral Comprehension / Compréhension Orale
• Written Comprehension / Compréhension Écrite
• Oral Expression / Expression Orale
• Written Expression / Expression Écrite
• Vocabulary & Syntax / Lexique & Structure (only for TEF études)

Test Results

The certificate is emailed directly to the applicant within 2 to 3 weeks of the applicant's session.

The TEF grades candidates using a scale of 7 levels that range from 0+ level (basic skills) to level 6 (complete control). 

A digital certificate of results, valid for 2 years, is issued for the applicant and shows the scores on each section of the test. 

Candidates may take the test as many times as they want.  However, a one-month waiting period is required between two sessions.

TEF Policies

• Candidates will be required to show a proof of ID on their examination day - passport or valid Driver Licence.
• Candidates will be notified of the examination timetable by email.  The test will start and end within the 10am-5pm timeframe on examination day.
• Test fees are refundable up to 8 days before the test date, minus a $50 administrative fee. After that, test fees are non-refundable.
• Candidates agree that their oral test will be recorded.

Prepare for the TEF

• Practice with free Tutorials and Sample Papers
  
• Get ready with PrepMyFuture, an e-learning platform specifically designed to prepare you for the TEF
• Download the app Francais 3.0
• Facebook group: "Comment se préparer au TEF"
• Several book options available on Amazon and other online retailers
  

TEF types