DELF B1 or B2?
Choosing your DELF level is a strategic decision. Too low, and the diploma may not be enough for your goal. Too high, and you risk failing. Here is how B1 and B2 differ, and how to choose the right one.
In this guide
The short answer
- Choose DELF B1 if you need proof of an independent level for everyday life, or if your mock tests show you are comfortable at B1 but not yet at B2.
- Choose DELF B2 if you need French for university studies, many professional situations, or a goal that explicitly requires B2, and your mock tests show you can argue a point of view, not just describe.
Both diplomas are awarded by France’s Ministry of Education, administered by France Éducation international, and valid for life.
B1 vs B2 at a glance
| DELF B1 | DELF B2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Independent user (threshold) | Independent user (advanced) |
| Listening | About 25 min | About 30 min |
| Reading | 45 min | 60 min |
| Writing | 45 min, 160 words minimum | 60 min, 250 words minimum |
| Speaking | About 15 min, 10 min preparation (for part 3) | 20 min, 30 min preparation |
| Pass mark | 50/100, with at least 5/25 per skill | 50/100, with at least 5/25 per skill |
Durations are those published at the time of writing. France Éducation international updates formats from time to time, so check the current specifications before you register.
The real difference: describing vs arguing
The biggest step between B1 and B2 is not vocabulary. It is the type of thinking you must show:
| At B1, you… | At B2, you… |
|---|---|
| describe experiences, events and plans | defend a position with arguments and examples |
| give simple reasons for your opinion | weigh both sides and make a concession |
| understand the main points of clear speech on familiar topics | follow complex arguments, including in the press |
| write a personal text (letter, article, forum post) | write a structured argumentative text |
| handle everyday situations | interact fluently enough that the conversation flows |
If you can tell a story well but struggle to argue for or against something for five minutes, B1 is probably your level for now.
What each level is useful for
| Goal | Level often requested |
|---|---|
| Proving independent everyday French | B1 |
| University studies in French | Often B2 (some programmes accept B1, others ask for C1) |
| Work in a French-speaking environment | Varies: B1 to B2, depending on the role |
| Residence or nationality in France | Specific levels apply and have changed in recent years: check the current rules on service-public.fr |
For Express Entry and permanent residence, the DELF is not the right test. IRCC accepts TEF Canada and TCF Canada for French. (For citizenship, IRCC’s list does include the DELF.)
Always check the exact requirement with the institution, employer or authority that will receive your diploma.
How to choose: a rule of thumb
This is our practical guideline, not an official one.
- Take a full B2 mock exam in real conditions.
- If you score 60/100 or more, with no skill below 10/25, B2 is a reasonable goal.
- If you score between 40 and 60, you can aim for B2 with focused preparation, especially in writing and speaking.
- If you score below 40, take a B1 mock exam. If you pass it comfortably, B1 now, then B2 later, is a safer route.
The pass mark is 50/100, so aiming for a margin of safety above it is wise: test-day stress costs a few points.
The 5/25 rule: why one weak skill can fail you
At both levels, you need at least 5/25 in each of the four skills. A candidate with 70/100 overall but 4/25 in listening fails. Before choosing B2, make sure none of your skills is far behind the others.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to pass B1 or fail B2?
A diploma you pass is always worth more than one you fail. If your mock results are borderline, consider B1 first, then B2 a few months later.
Do DELF diplomas expire?
No. DELF diplomas are valid for life, unlike TEF and TCF results, which are valid for two years.
Can I take B1 and B2 in the same session?
Some centres allow it, depending on the session calendar. Ask your centre.
Is the DELF accepted for Express Entry?
No. For Express Entry, IRCC accepts TEF Canada and TCF Canada for French.