TL;DR
IRCC accepts both the TCF Canada and the TEF Canada for Express Entry, and Québec accepts both for its skilled worker program (PSTQ). The formats differ (39 questions per comprehension section in the TCF Canada, 40 in the TEF Canada) and the score scales are different. Choose based on the test dates near you and the format you are most comfortable with.
For Canada: TCF Canada or TEF Canada
| TCF Canada | TEF Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Organization | France Éducation international | CCI Paris Île-de-France |
| Listening | 39 questions, 35 min | 40 questions, 40 min |
| Reading | 39 questions, 60 min | 40 questions, 60 min |
| Writing | 3 tasks, 60 min | 2 sections, 60 min |
| Speaking | 3 tasks, 12 min | 2 sections, 15 min |
| NCLC 7 in listening | 458 to 502 | 249 to 279 |
IRCC accepts both tests for Express Entry. The scores are not on the same scale: always use the conversion chart for the test you took.
Which test for which application?
| Application | French tests accepted |
|---|---|
| Express Entry (IRCC) | TCF Canada, TEF Canada |
| Canadian citizenship | TCF Canada or TEF Canada, level B1 or above |
| Québec skilled worker selection (PSTQ) | TCF Québec, TCF Canada, TCF, TEFAQ, TEF Canada, TEF, DELF, DALF |
| Residence permits and naturalization in France | TCF IRN, TEF IRN |
If you are aiming for both Express Entry and Québec, the TCF Canada and the TEF Canada appear on both lists. The TCF Québec is modular: you can take only the sections you need.
How to choose
- Availability: check the dates at test centres near you. This is often what decides it.
- Writing: the TCF Canada asks for 3 texts of 60 to 180 words; the TEF Canada asks for 2 longer texts (at least 80, then at least 200 words).
- Speaking: the TCF has 3 tasks, including a role play; the TEF has 2 sections (getting information, then convincing).
- Retakes: for the TCF Canada and the TCF Québec, you can sit the test as many times as you like, with 20 days between two sittings.
- Practice: whichever you choose, practise in the exact format of your test.
Frequently asked questions
Is the TCF easier than the TEF?+−
Can I use the TCF for IRCC and the TEF for France?+−
How long are the results valid?+−
What is the NCLC 7 equivalent on the TEF Canada?+−
Is the TCF Canada accepted for Québec?+−
What score would you get in writing?
Write a TCF task and get an estimated level based on the official criteria. With the 14-day free trial. How we check the correction