Each exam serves a slightly different purpose. Here is a quick overview of what makes them unique — and how they are recognised in Switzerland and internationally.
TCF – Test de Connaissance du Français
A French language assessment test – the TCF – is designed to evaluate your current level in French as a non-native speaker and is valid for 2 years.
It’s officially recognised in France, Canada, and Switzerland — including for the Fide language certification passport and Swiss citizenship applications.
The TCF assesses listening, reading, and grammar skills, with the option to add speaking and writing components depending on your needs. It is a flexible exam designed for general certification, further studies, or naturalisation purposes. Available in several formats, the TCF allows candidates to choose the version that best matches their goals — whether it is for personal development, academic use, or official requirements, such as the FIDE certificate in Switzerland.
Versions of the TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
- TCF tout public – General use, open to everyone →Offered by Swiss Exams
- TCF Canada – For Canadian immigration
- TCF Québec – For immigration to Québec
- TCF IRN – For integration, residence and naturalisation in France
TEF – Test d'Évaluation de Français
Like the TCF, TEF is a French proficiency test that provides a certificate valid for 2 years. It is frequently used for immigration to Canada, Québec, Switzerland and France.
The TEF is a modular French language test that assesses reading, listening, grammar, speaking, and writing, allowing candidates to take only the sections required for their specific objectives. It is especially useful for immigration, integration, and professional purposes, and is officially recognised by both Canadian and French authorities for residency and naturalisation applications.
Versions of the TEF
- TEF Canada – For Canadan permanent residency
- TEF Québec – Required for Québec immigration
- TEF for Naturalisation – For French citizenship
- TEF Intégration – For residence and integration in France
DELF – Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française
The DELF is an official French diploma, valid for life. It's ideal for students, general learners, and school-leavers who want to certify their level of French from beginner to intermediate (A1–B2).
- Assesses all four skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking
- Suitable for: school students, adult learners, general language improvement
- Not typically used for immigration, but widely recognised in education and job markets.
DALF – Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française
For advanced learners, the DALF is a diploma for levels C1 and C2. It is often required for entry into universities or for professional purposes in French-speaking countries.
- Assesses all four skills like the DELF, but with more academic or professional content
- Suitable for: advanced students, academics, professionals
- Like the DELF, it is valid for life and widely recognised globally
Overview: TCF, TEF, DELF & DALF
Which exam is right for you?
- Need a certificate for immigration (Canada, Switzerland, France)? → TCF or TEF
- Want a diploma valid for life? → DELF or DALF
- Still a student or beginner? → Start with DELF A1–B2
- Need a FIDE certificate in Switzerland? → Choose TCF tout public
Still unsure which French exam is right for you?
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