The French test for Express Entry is an important step for someone who wants to use their French language skills to support their Canadian immigration goals. The Canadian government accepts two French language tests for Express Entry: TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français) and TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français).
To determine your French level, these tests assess all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Depending on the score you get, French language skills can help you meet program requirements, improve your CRS score, and qualify for French language category-based selection.
In this guide we are going to cover information you need.
Which French Tests Are Accepted for Express Entry?
If you want to prove your French proficiency for Canadian immigration through Express Entry, you can opt of any of the tests listed below:
Both two exams assess your listening, writing, reading, and speaking abilities. The results are used to determine your Niveau de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) level.
TEF vs TEF Canada: Which test should you choose?
Both exams are accepted by IRCC, and both use the same NCLC thresholds for immigration.
| |
TEF Canada |
TCF Canada |
| Run by |
CCI Paris Île-de-France |
France Education International |
| Speaking |
Live conversation with an examiner |
Recorded responses, no live examiner |
| Listening and reading |
Multiple-choice plus other task types such as fill-in and matching |
Multiple-choice only |
| Results time |
3–5 weeks in one source |
2–4 weeks in the same source |
| Exam length |
Confirm with the center. |
Confirm with the center. |
Neither test is clearly easy. Select the one that best matches your strengths.
If you want to prepare for TEF Canada, you can check our blog:
What Are the French Language Requirements for Express Entry?
Applicants who wish to use French language skills for Canadian permanent residence will be required to pass an approved French test and will be required to meet the language requirements of their immigration program. The level required varies according to the program and if French is a first or second official language.
Minimum French Language Level for Express Entry
The level of French proficiency required is determined by the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC). The minimum level depends on the immigration program:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): NCLC 7 in all four skills with French as your first official language. If French is your second official language, the minimum is NCLC 5 in all four skills.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): NCLC 7 for jobs classified under TEER 0 or 1, or NCLC 5 for jobs under TEER 2 or 3, when using French to meet the language requirement.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): CLB/NCLC 5 in speaking and listening, and NCLC 4 in reading and writing.
French Test Scores Required for NCLC 7
In order to be considered for the French-language proficiency category under Express Entry, you will typically need to achieve NCLC 7 in all four language skills and satisfy the criteria of the invitation round.
The following scores are based on IRCC’s current Express Entry scoring tables for NCLC 7:
| Language ability |
TEF Canada |
TCF Canada |
| Listening |
249–279 |
458–502 |
| Reading |
207–232 |
453–498 |
| Writing |
310–348 |
10–11 |
| Speaking |
310–348 |
10–11 |
Note: The score-equivalency column provided by IRCC for Express Entry should be used for TEF Canada, not the newer score out of 699. Please check your test version and score conversion on the official IRCC tables.
Can French Improve Your Express Entry CRS Score?
Yes, improved French language skills can enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and may help you meet the French-language category-based selection requirements.
- 25 CRS points: If you have NCLC 7 or higher in all four French skills and CLB 4 or lower in English, or if you do not take an English test.
- 50 points for CRS: if you reach NCLC 7 or higher in all four French skills and CLB 5 or higher in all four English skills.
There are also French-language category draws, which are another chance for eligible candidates to be invited to apply for permanent residence. But the language requirement is not a guarantee of invitation.
Related Reads:
How to Register for a French Test for Express Entry
Registering for a French test for Express Entry involves choosing an approved exam, finding an authorised test centre, and booking a suitable date. Follow these steps to complete the registration process:
- Select your French Test for Express Entry: Select either the TEF or TCF Canada test.
- Find an official test center: Visit the authorized TEF Canada or TCF Canada website to find an approved test center near you.
- Check available dates and fees: Check available exam fees, registration, and deadlines before booking your test.
- Complete Registration: Provide your personal information and pay the fee.
- Prepare Your Identification: Review the identification requirements and bring the required identification document to the exam day.
- Get Your Results: When your results are ready, use the official score conversion tables to find your NCLC level for Express Entry.
What is the cost of a French test for Express Entry?
The price of a French test for Express Entry will rely on the exam you choose and the authorized test center where you sign up.
For instance, in India, Alliance Française de Delhi has announced the exam fee for TCF Canada as INR 26,000 (plus GST) as per their published exam schedule for 2026. Some test centers offer the full TEF Canada and TCF Canada exams in Canada for around CAD $390, depending on the center.
Here are some things to keep in mind before taking your exam:
- Registration fee at the test center: The registration fee may be charged by each center.
- Other costs: See if there are any taxes or other fees.
- Retakes: If you need to retake the exam to get better scores, you may be required to pay the entire fee again.
Please consult the official TEF Canada registration website or the website of the test center where you wish to sit for the test to confirm the current price. Please check the fee before signing up, as fees may vary.
Why Choose Kochiva for TEF or TCF Canada Preparation?
Kochiva provides online preparation of French tests for Express Entry courses to learners in an innovative and structured way. We follow exam-focused preparation and focus on building all four skills: listening, speaking, writing, and reading, along with vocabulary and grammar.
Key highlights:
- Experienced and certified tutors
- TEF and TCF-focused preparation
- Video recorded sessions, mock tests, and study material
- Personalized guidance and student support
Visit us and start your journey towards your dreams.
Website: https://kochiva.com/
More Reads:
FAQs (French Test for Express Entry)
What is the validity period of the TEF exam?
The test is valid for two years from the date of the test.
Which French exam is valid for Canada Express Entry?
There are two tests accepted by IRCC for Canada Express Entry: TCF Canada and TEF Canada. DELF and DALF are general French diplomas and are not accepted by IRCC.
Is B2 French enough for Canada PR?
Yes, as the minimum requirement for Canada PR is NCLC 7 in all four abilities, and the B2 level in French is equivalent to NCLC 7.
How to get 50 points for French in Express Entry?
To get 50 points for French in Express Entry, you need to score NCLC 7 in all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. You also need to maintain CLB 5 in English-speaking skills.
Is 470 a good score for Canada PR?
A CRS score of 470 may be competitive for Canadian permanent residence. However, it does not guarantee an invitation to apply (ITA). Your chances also depend on the type of Express Entry draw, the CRS cutoff score, and your eligibility.
Who can apply for French Category Express Entry?
French-language category-based draws may be available to candidates who meet the requirements for an eligible Express Entry program and have a minimum score of NCLC 7 in speaking, listening, reading and writing. They are required to take an approved test (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) to prove their French skills.
The French test for Express Entry is an important step for someone who wants to use their French language skills to support their Canadian immigration goals. The Canadian government accepts two French language tests for Express Entry: TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français) and TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français).
To determine your French level, these tests assess all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Depending on the score you get, French language skills can help you meet program requirements, improve your CRS score, and qualify for French language category-based selection.
In this guide we are going to cover information you need.
Which French Tests Are Accepted for Express Entry?
If you want to prove your French proficiency for Canadian immigration through Express Entry, you can opt of any of the tests listed below:
Both two exams assess your listening, writing, reading, and speaking abilities. The results are used to determine your Niveau de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) level.
TEF vs TEF Canada: Which test should you choose?
Both exams are accepted by IRCC, and both use the same NCLC thresholds for immigration.
Neither test is clearly easy. Select the one that best matches your strengths.
If you want to prepare for TEF Canada, you can check our blog:
What Are the French Language Requirements for Express Entry?
Applicants who wish to use French language skills for Canadian permanent residence will be required to pass an approved French test and will be required to meet the language requirements of their immigration program. The level required varies according to the program and if French is a first or second official language.
Minimum French Language Level for Express Entry
The level of French proficiency required is determined by the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC). The minimum level depends on the immigration program:
French Test Scores Required for NCLC 7
In order to be considered for the French-language proficiency category under Express Entry, you will typically need to achieve NCLC 7 in all four language skills and satisfy the criteria of the invitation round.
The following scores are based on IRCC’s current Express Entry scoring tables for NCLC 7:
Note: The score-equivalency column provided by IRCC for Express Entry should be used for TEF Canada, not the newer score out of 699. Please check your test version and score conversion on the official IRCC tables.
Can French Improve Your Express Entry CRS Score?
Yes, improved French language skills can enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and may help you meet the French-language category-based selection requirements.
There are also French-language category draws, which are another chance for eligible candidates to be invited to apply for permanent residence. But the language requirement is not a guarantee of invitation.
Related Reads:
How to Register for a French Test for Express Entry
Registering for a French test for Express Entry involves choosing an approved exam, finding an authorised test centre, and booking a suitable date. Follow these steps to complete the registration process:
What is the cost of a French test for Express Entry?
The price of a French test for Express Entry will rely on the exam you choose and the authorized test center where you sign up.
For instance, in India, Alliance Française de Delhi has announced the exam fee for TCF Canada as INR 26,000 (plus GST) as per their published exam schedule for 2026. Some test centers offer the full TEF Canada and TCF Canada exams in Canada for around CAD $390, depending on the center.
Here are some things to keep in mind before taking your exam:
Please consult the official TEF Canada registration website or the website of the test center where you wish to sit for the test to confirm the current price. Please check the fee before signing up, as fees may vary.
Why Choose Kochiva for TEF or TCF Canada Preparation?
Kochiva provides online preparation of French tests for Express Entry courses to learners in an innovative and structured way. We follow exam-focused preparation and focus on building all four skills: listening, speaking, writing, and reading, along with vocabulary and grammar.
Key highlights:
Visit us and start your journey towards your dreams.
Website: https://kochiva.com/
More Reads:
FAQs (French Test for Express Entry)
What is the validity period of the TEF exam?
The test is valid for two years from the date of the test.
Which French exam is valid for Canada Express Entry?
There are two tests accepted by IRCC for Canada Express Entry: TCF Canada and TEF Canada. DELF and DALF are general French diplomas and are not accepted by IRCC.
Is B2 French enough for Canada PR?
Yes, as the minimum requirement for Canada PR is NCLC 7 in all four abilities, and the B2 level in French is equivalent to NCLC 7.
How to get 50 points for French in Express Entry?
To get 50 points for French in Express Entry, you need to score NCLC 7 in all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. You also need to maintain CLB 5 in English-speaking skills.
Is 470 a good score for Canada PR?
A CRS score of 470 may be competitive for Canadian permanent residence. However, it does not guarantee an invitation to apply (ITA). Your chances also depend on the type of Express Entry draw, the CRS cutoff score, and your eligibility.
Who can apply for French Category Express Entry?
French-language category-based draws may be available to candidates who meet the requirements for an eligible Express Entry program and have a minimum score of NCLC 7 in speaking, listening, reading and writing. They are required to take an approved test (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) to prove their French skills.
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