French language exams and diplomas: DILF, DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF, DCL, CLOÉ

If you are thinking of certifying your level of French, navigating the maze of official exams can be very complicated, as they all seem interesting and have their advantages and disadvantages.

These certifications can help you improve your academic and professional prospects, and both can lead to career advancement.

If you are a bit “lost” as to which of the best French tests and diplomas are, today we will tell you about the main ones.

The DILF – Diplôme Initial de Langue Française focuses on beginners and evaluates basic linguistic skills in the French language. For those who are new to the French language, this exam is a good initiation step.

In short, the test measures your ability to understand and use the basic language in familiar situations.

The DILF consists of four tests that assess the main language skills defined in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): oral reception, written reception, oral expression, and written expression. Three tests are taken in groups (oral reception, written reception, and written expression), while oral expression is taken individually.

The next level for students seeking to reach that intermediate plateau in their knowledge of French after the foundation established by the DILF is the DELF or Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française.

Similar to the previous one, the DELF has four different sections: oral comprehension, written comprehension, written expression, and oral expression. There are 4 sections and each one evaluates the ability to communicate in everyday situations, which means that you have to practice a lot of all your skills.

This exam can also be prepared at different CEFR levels:

• Elementary user > A1 > DELF A1
• Elementary User > A2 > DELF A2
• Independent user > B1 > DELF B1
• Independent user > B2 > DELF B2

The DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) is a certification for the most advanced levels of French as a foreign language. Examinees can take this exam if they have a high level of comprehension, expression, and interaction in French.

Obtaining the DALF demonstrates that you are able to master the language in complex situations, such as in your studies or profession.

This exam would be equivalent to CEFR level C1 / C2, demonstrating a good command of French.

The TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) represents a more flexible alternative to certify the level of French for everyone. Unlike the DELF and DALF diplomas, the TCF is a placement test that provides a snapshot of your competencies at a given moment.

One of its main differences from the previous ones is that it is a level certificate and not a diploma, so the results have limited validity. Thus, they are generally considered valid for only two years.

On the other hand, one of its main advantages is its modular structure. When you sign up for the exam, you can choose between compulsory and complementary tests according to your needs. And unlike the previous ones, in a few weeks, you get your certificate with the level reached.

The TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) is a certification developed by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry that enjoys great international prestige, especially in immigration processes and professional contexts.

TEF stands out for:

• Different adapted versions: depending on your needs, you can take the exam for the TEF Canada, TEF for residency in France, and TEF for higher education…
• Official recognition: although this is not unique to the TEF, it is an examination accepted by most immigration authorities in French-speaking countries.
• Comprehensive evaluation: it includes tests of oral and written comprehension and expression. In this aspect, it is more similar to DELF than to TCF.

The DCL (Diplôme de Compétence en Langue) is a French language certification unique in its kind, as it is specially designed for the professional world. This diploma, issued by the French Ministry of Education, assesses language skills in real professional situations.

Its practical approach is especially valuable for those who will be working in a French-speaking country, as the tests recreate authentic work scenarios where candidates must solve situations they might encounter in their real professional life, such as participating in meetings, writing reports, or managing projects in French.

This approach can be seen throughout the exam. For example, instead of traditional isolated grammar or vocabulary exercises, candidates must complete comprehensive professional projects that require the combined use of multiple language skills.

Unlike other exams where you must register for a specific level, the DCL allows the same exam to assess and award different levels depending on the candidate’s performance. This means that there is no risk of registering for a level that is too high or too low, as the exam itself determines the level of proficiency demonstrated, which can range from A2 to C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

CLOÉ (Certifications et Tests de Langue Online Évaluation) represents the new generation of French certifications, completely adapted to the digital environment. This certification is distinguished by its modernity and accessibility.

What makes CLOÉ special?

• 100% online: the entire process is done digitally, from registration to the exam.
• Adaptive: the level of difficulty is adjusted according to the candidate’s answers.
• Immediate results: the score is available at the end of the test.
• Remote monitoring: includes an online surveillance system that ensures the validity of the exam.
• Growing recognition: although it is relatively new, more and more institutions are accepting it.

As you can see, there are many options available to get a French certification. Depending on your personal situation, each of them brings its own advantages and disadvantages; but with a little research, we are sure you can find yours.

Regardless of which exam you choose, a French course in Paris will allow you to be prepared in less time and get better results. With the confidence to pass.