Real testimonials from candidates who achieved their target CLB scores and moved forward with their Canadian immigration dreams. Get inspired by their preparation strategies and learn from their experiences.
These candidates come from diverse backgrounds and French proficiency levels. Their stories show that with proper preparation and the right resources, achieving your target CLB score is absolutely possible.
Toronto, ON • Federal Skilled Worker
I was worried about the TEF exam because my French was rusty after years of not using it. I followed the 8-week preparation plan and used Mocko.ai for daily practice. The AI-powered feedback on my speaking and writing was incredibly helpful—it pointed out specific grammar patterns I kept getting wrong. I achieved CLB 9 in all four skills on my first attempt and received my ITA within two months!
Dubai, UAE • Express Entry
As a non-native French speaker, I needed CLB 7 minimum for Express Entry. I started with CLB 5 level and dedicated 12 weeks to intensive preparation. The structured study plan helped me stay on track, and practicing with mock tests every week showed me exactly where I needed to improve. The listening section was my biggest challenge, but consistent practice with authentic materials made a huge difference. I ended up with CLB 8 overall!
Paris, France • Provincial Nominee Program
Being a native French speaker, I thought the TEF would be easy, but I was wrong! The exam format is very specific, and you need to understand exactly what they're looking for. I spent 4 weeks familiarizing myself with the test structure and practicing timed sections. The comparison of different preparation tools on this site helped me choose the right resources. Mocko.ai's exam simulations were spot-on—the actual test felt very similar.
Mexico City, Mexico • Canadian Experience Class
I had studied French in school but never used it professionally. When I decided to apply for permanent residency through CEC, I knew I needed to get serious about TEF preparation. The biggest help was understanding the CLB requirements and what scores I needed. I focused heavily on writing and speaking since those were my weakest areas. Using a combination of Mocko.ai for practice and official materials for format familiarization worked perfectly. I got exactly CLB 7 in all skills, which was my target!
Mumbai, India • Federal Skilled Worker
I had a tight timeline—I needed my TEF results within 2 months for my Express Entry profile. I followed an intensive 6-week plan, practicing 2-3 hours daily. The key was consistent practice and getting feedback on my weak areas. Mocko.ai's skill diagnostics helped me identify that my reading comprehension speed was too slow, so I focused on timed reading exercises. The investment in proper preparation tools was worth every penny—I achieved CLB 9 and boosted my CRS score significantly.
Brussels, Belgium • Express Entry
I'm a French speaker from Belgium, but I still needed to prepare for the TEF format. The speaking section was particularly challenging because it's very structured and timed. I practiced with mock tests every week and recorded myself to identify areas for improvement. The detailed preparation guide on this site was invaluable—it broke down exactly what to expect in each section. I achieved CLB 8 overall, with CLB 9 in reading and listening.
Casablanca, Morocco • Provincial Nominee Program
French is my second language, and I started from a beginner-intermediate level. I knew I needed significant preparation time, so I dedicated 16 weeks to building my French skills while focusing on TEF-specific strategies. The first 8 weeks were general French improvement, and the last 8 weeks were intensive TEF practice. The tools comparison page helped me choose the right resources for my budget. I'm so proud that I achieved CLB 7 on my first attempt—it felt impossible at the start!
London, UK • Federal Skilled Worker
I studied French at university but hadn't used it in years. When I decided to apply for Canadian PR, I was nervous about the TEF. I started with a diagnostic test to understand my baseline (CLB 6), then followed a focused 6-week plan. The writing section was my biggest challenge—understanding the formal letter format and essay structure took practice. Mocko.ai's instant feedback on my writing helped me improve quickly. I achieved CLB 8 overall, exceeding my CLB 7 target.
Tokyo, Japan • Express Entry
Learning French as a third language (after Japanese and English) was challenging, but I was determined to qualify for Express Entry. I spent 20 weeks on comprehensive preparation—12 weeks building general French proficiency and 8 weeks on TEF-specific practice. The FAQ section on this site answered so many of my questions about the exam format and requirements. Consistent daily practice and using quality preparation tools made all the difference. Achieving CLB 7 was one of my proudest accomplishments!
Following a clear study plan with specific weekly goals
Taking full-length mock exams weekly to track progress
Using effective preparation tools like Mocko.ai
Focusing extra time on weakest skills identified through diagnostics
Understanding TEF-specific format and question types thoroughly
Maintaining daily practice routine throughout preparation period