If you are applying for Canadian permanent residence or citizenship, demonstrating French language proficiency can significantly strengthen your application. The TCF Canada and TEF Canada are the two French language tests recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for federal immigration programs. This guide explains what these tests involve, where to take them, and how your scores translate into immigration points.

Important Disclaimer: Immigration policies and point calculations can change. The information in this article reflects publicly available data as of December 2025. Always verify current requirements directly with IRCC (canada.ca) or consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making decisions based on this content. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice.

What Are the TCF Canada and TEF Canada?

The TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français) and TEF Canada (Test d'évaluation de français) are standardized French proficiency exams designed specifically for Canadian immigration purposes. Both tests are accepted by IRCC and assess the same four language competencies: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

TCF Canada

Administered by France Éducation international, the TCF Canada uses a computer-based format for the listening and reading sections. The speaking section is recorded rather than conducted face-to-face. Many candidates appreciate the structured, standardized format of this test.

TEF Canada

Administered by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Paris Île-de-France), the TEF Canada features a face-to-face speaking interview with an examiner. Some candidates find this format more natural, while others prefer the recorded format of the TCF.

Key point: Both tests carry equal weight for IRCC. Your choice should be based on your comfort with the test format, availability in your area, and personal preference.

Why French Proficiency Matters for Canadian Immigration

Canada is officially bilingual. IRCC has increasingly prioritized French-speaking candidates through category-based Express Entry draws. In 2025, French language proficiency draws have consistently featured lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off scores compared to other categories.

2025 Express Entry Trends

According to publicly available IRCC draw data, French language proficiency draws in 2025 have seen CRS cut-offs as low as 379 points. By comparison, Canadian Experience Class draws during the same period required scores above 500. This represents a substantial difference for candidates who can demonstrate French proficiency.

For example, the December 17, 2025 French language draw invited 6,000 candidates with a minimum CRS of 399. Earlier in the year, a March 2025 draw invited 7,500 candidates at a CRS of 379.

Note: Past draw results do not guarantee future outcomes. CRS cut-offs vary based on the number of candidates in the pool, IRCC priorities, and other factors.

CRS Points for French Language Skills

Your French test scores are converted to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, which then translate into CRS points. The points you receive depend on whether French is your first or second official language and whether you have a spouse or common-law partner.

Additional Points for Bilingual Candidates

Candidates who demonstrate proficiency in both English and French can earn additional CRS points. According to IRCC guidelines, you can receive up to 50 additional points if you achieve NCLC 7 or higher in all four French abilities AND CLB 5 or higher in all four English abilities.

French NCLC 7+ in all abilities with English CLB 4 or lower: 25 additional points

French NCLC 7+ in all abilities with English CLB 5+: 50 additional points

These bonus points are in addition to the base language points you receive for your first official language skills.

Where to Take TCF and TEF Canada in Canada

Both tests are offered at authorized centers across Canada. Test availability varies by location, and popular centers often book up weeks in advance.

Major Test Centers

Ontario

Alliance Française Toronto (Downtown, North York, Mississauga, Oakville)
Various other authorized centers in the Greater Toronto Area

Quebec

McGill University (Montreal), one of the largest TEF centers in Canada
ILSC Montreal
Alliance Française de Montréal (TCF)
Université de Montréal

British Columbia

Alliance Française Vancouver
Various authorized centers in Metro Vancouver

Finding a test center: Use the official center locators at lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr for TEF or france-education-international.fr for TCF. Contact centers directly to confirm availability and registration procedures.

Test Format and Fees

Test Structure

Both tests assess four competencies. All four sections are mandatory for immigration purposes.

Listening (Compréhension orale): 40-60 minutes
Reading (Compréhension écrite): 60 minutes
Writing (Expression écrite): 60 minutes
Speaking (Expression orale): 15 minutes (TEF face-to-face) or recorded tasks (TCF)

Approximate Fees

Test fees vary by center. As a general reference, expect to pay approximately $350-450 CAD for the complete TEF Canada exam (all four sections). TCF Canada fees are similar. Some centers charge per section, which can add up to a higher total. Contact your chosen center for current pricing.

Results and Validity

Results are typically available within 3-6 weeks. Certificates are mailed to candidates. Test results are valid for two years from the date of the test. Plan your test timing to ensure results remain valid throughout your immigration application process.

Special Considerations for Quebec Immigration

Quebec has its own immigration programs with specific French language requirements. The province accepts both TCF Canada (since January 2022) and TEF Canada, as well as the Quebec-specific versions: TCF Québec and TEFaQ.

For Quebec economic immigration programs such as the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) and the Programme régulier des travailleurs qualifiés (PRTQ), French proficiency scores contribute significantly to your selection points. Higher scores mean more points toward your Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

Quebec requirements note: Quebec immigration programs have their own scoring grids separate from federal Express Entry. Verify specific requirements with the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI).

Practical Preparation Tips

Before Registering

Research both test formats to determine which suits your strengths

Check availability at multiple centers, as popular dates fill quickly

Confirm all four sections are included in your registration for immigration purposes

Test Preparation

Use official preparation materials from CCI Paris (TEF) or France Éducation international (TCF)

Practice with timed mock exams to build test-taking stamina

Focus on your weakest skills, as your lowest score determines your overall CLB level

Consider professional preparation courses if self-study proves insufficient

Test Day

Bring valid identification (passport is typically required)

Arrive early to complete check-in procedures

Electronic devices are prohibited during the exam

Plan for the full day, as all sections are typically completed in one session

Retaking the Test

You can retake TCF or TEF Canada to improve your scores. There is typically a mandatory waiting period between attempts, usually 20-30 days depending on the test and center. Some candidates find that additional preparation between attempts yields meaningful score improvements.

Keep in mind that you cannot combine scores from different test sessions. All four skills must be from the same test administration for immigration purposes.

Conclusion

French language proficiency has become an increasingly valuable asset for Canadian immigration. The TCF Canada and TEF Canada provide recognized pathways to demonstrate your French skills. Whether you choose TCF or TEF, proper preparation and understanding of the score requirements can help you achieve your immigration goals.

Take time to research your options, prepare thoroughly, and register early. Your investment in French language certification may open doors to immigration pathways with lower CRS thresholds and contribute meaningful points to your application.

Ready to start your TCF or TEF preparation? Bespoke Learning Solutions offers personalized preparation with certified native French-speaking tutors. Contact us for a free consultation to assess your current level and create a study plan tailored to your goals.

References and Resources

IRCC Language Testing: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship

TEF Canada (CCI Paris): lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr

TCF Canada (France Éducation international): france-education-international.fr

Express Entry Draw Results: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/rounds-invitations

TCF and TEF Canada: Your Complete Guide to French Proficiency Testing for Immigration