Question 1

How much does the TEF Canada exam cost?

Accepted Answer

The TEF Canada exam typically costs between CAD $400-$450, though prices may vary by test center and location. The fee covers all four components: Reading Comprehension (Compréhension écrite), Listening Comprehension (Compréhension orale), Written Expression (Expression écrite), and Oral Expression (Expression orale). Some test centers may charge additional administrative fees. Check with your local authorized TEF test center for exact pricing.

Question 2

How long are TEF Canada scores valid?

Accepted Answer

TEF Canada test results are valid for 2 years from the test date for Canadian immigration purposes (IRCC requirements). After 2 years, you must retake the exam if you need current scores for immigration applications. Make sure to plan your immigration timeline accordingly and take the TEF when your scores will remain valid throughout your application process.

Question 3

Can I retake the TEF exam if I'm not satisfied with my scores?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can retake the TEF Canada exam as many times as needed. There is no limit on the number of attempts, and there is typically no mandatory waiting period between tests (though individual test centers may have their own policies). However, each attempt requires paying the full exam fee. Most candidates who retake the exam do so after 4-8 weeks of additional preparation to allow time for improvement.

Question 4

What CLB level do I need for Canadian immigration?

Accepted Answer

The required CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) level depends on your immigration program. For Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry), you need minimum CLB 7 in all four skills. For Canadian Experience Class, you need CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs, or CLB 5 for NOC B jobs. For Provincial Nominee Programs, requirements vary by province but typically range from CLB 4 to CLB 7. Higher CLB levels (8-10) significantly increase your CRS points in Express Entry.

Question 5

How is the TEF Canada exam scored?

Accepted Answer

TEF Canada uses a point-based scoring system. Each of the four skills is scored independently: Reading (0-300 points), Listening (0-360 points), Writing (0-450 points), and Speaking (0-450 points). These raw scores are then converted to CLB/NCLC levels for immigration purposes. For example, to achieve CLB 7 in reading, you need 207-232 points; for CLB 7 in listening, you need 249-279 points; for CLB 7 in writing, you need 310-348 points; and for CLB 7 in speaking, you need 310-348 points.

Question 6

How long does the TEF Canada exam take?

Accepted Answer

The complete TEF Canada exam takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Reading Comprehension: 60 minutes, Listening Comprehension: 40 minutes, Written Expression: 60 minutes, and Oral Expression: 15 minutes (plus preparation time). The oral component is typically scheduled separately from the written components. Plan to spend most of a day at the test center when you include check-in procedures and breaks.

Question 7

What is the difference between TEF and TCF?

Accepted Answer

TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français) and TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) are both French proficiency tests accepted by IRCC for Canadian immigration, but they have different formats and administrators. TEF is administered by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce, while TCF is administered by France Éducation international. TEF tends to have more business-oriented content, while TCF is more general. Both are equally valid for immigration purposes, so choose based on test center availability and your personal preference.

Question 8

How long should I study for the TEF Canada exam?

Accepted Answer

Preparation time varies based on your current French level. If you're already at an intermediate level (B1-B2), plan for 8-12 weeks of focused preparation. If you're starting from a beginner level, you may need 6-12 months of general French learning before focusing on TEF-specific preparation. Advanced learners targeting CLB 9-10 typically need 4-6 weeks of exam-focused practice. Using AI-powered platforms like Mocko.ai can reduce preparation time by 30-40% through personalized, adaptive learning.

Question 9

Can I use a dictionary during the TEF exam?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot use any dictionaries, reference materials, or electronic devices during the TEF Canada exam. The test is designed to assess your current French language proficiency without external aids. You also cannot bring notes, phones, smartwatches, or any other materials into the testing room. Test centers provide scratch paper for notes during the listening and reading sections.

Question 10

Where can I take the TEF Canada exam?

Accepted Answer

TEF Canada is administered at authorized test centers worldwide. In Canada, major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa have multiple test centers. Internationally, test centers are available in most countries through Alliance Française locations and other authorized partners. Visit the official Le français des affaires website to find authorized test centers near you. Book your test date well in advance as popular locations can have waiting lists of 4-8 weeks.

Question 11

What happens if I miss my TEF exam appointment?

Accepted Answer

If you miss your scheduled TEF exam without prior notification, you will typically forfeit your exam fee. Most test centers require at least 48-72 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Some centers may allow rescheduling for a fee (usually CAD $50-$100) if you provide advance notice. In cases of medical emergencies or other exceptional circumstances, you may be able to reschedule with documentation. Always check your test center's specific cancellation and rescheduling policies when you register.

Question 12

Do I need to take all four TEF components?

Accepted Answer

For Canadian immigration purposes (IRCC), yes, you must take all four components: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking. IRCC requires scores in all four skills to assess your language proficiency. You cannot submit partial results or skip any component. All four tests must be completed during the same testing session (though oral and written components may be scheduled on different days at the same test center).

Question 13

What should I bring to the TEF exam?

Accepted Answer

You must bring valid government-issued photo identification (passport, driver's license, or national ID card) that matches the name on your registration. The ID must be current and not expired. Do not bring: phones, smartwatches, bags, study materials, food, or drinks into the testing room. Test centers typically provide lockers for personal belongings. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time to complete check-in procedures.

Question 14

How soon will I receive my TEF results?

Accepted Answer

TEF Canada results are typically available 2-4 weeks after your test date. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready, and you can download your official attestation (certificate) from the test center's online portal. Some test centers may provide preliminary scores sooner, but the official attestation required for immigration applications takes 2-4 weeks. Plan your immigration timeline accordingly and don't wait until the last minute to take the test.

Question 15

Can I request a score review or remarking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can request a review of your TEF scores, particularly for the writing and speaking components which involve subjective evaluation. You must submit your request within a specific timeframe (usually 2 months) after receiving your results, and there is a fee for the review process (typically CAD $100-$150). However, score changes after review are relatively rare. If you believe there was a significant error, it may be worth requesting a review, but many candidates find it more effective to simply retake the exam after additional preparation.

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