The DELF B2 Exam
DELF B2 is a commonly requested French qualification for some university programmes and professional contexts. Here is how the exam works, what examiners expect in the essay and the speaking test, and how to prepare.
In this guide
Exam formats, score tables and immigration requirements can change. This article was last reviewed on 4 October 2026. Always verify current requirements with IRCC and the official test provider before booking or submitting an application.
The DELF B2 certifies an upper-intermediate level of French. At B2, you can argue a point of view, understand the main ideas of complex texts and interact with native speakers fluently enough that the conversation flows. It is a commonly requested qualification for some university programmes and professional contexts, although requirements vary by institution and programme. Like every DELF diploma, it never expires.
The four tests
| Test | Duration | What you do | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compréhension de l'oral | About 30 min | Questions on recorded documents: interviews, reports, talks | /25 |
| Compréhension des écrits | 60 min | Questions on written documents, including an argumentative text | /25 |
| Production écrite | 60 min | An argumentative text of 250 words minimum | /25 |
| Production orale | 20 min (+30 min preparation) | Present and defend a point of view from a short document | /25 |
The written tests take about 2 hours 30 minutes in total. France Éducation international updates the format from time to time, so check the current specifications before you prepare.
How the DELF B2 is scored
The exam is marked out of 100. You pass with at least 50/100, provided you score at least 5/25 in each skill.
The argumentative essay
You write a text of at least 250 words defending a position: a letter to a newspaper, a forum contribution, an article or a formal letter. Examiners expect a clear thesis, organised arguments with examples, a concession and a conclusion, in the register required by the instructions.
| Part | Content |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Context, the question, your position |
| Argument 1 | Reason + example |
| Argument 2 | A different angle + example |
| Concession | Certes…, cependant… |
| Conclusion | Summary and an opening |
The speaking test
You draw a short document, often a press extract, and prepare for 30 minutes. Then you present the problem it raises, defend your point of view in a structured monologue (about 5–7 minutes), and discuss it with the examiner, who challenges your ideas. Our DELF B2 speaking guide covers the method step by step.
What B2 sounds like
- You argue with reasons, examples and nuance.
- You use connectors that show logical relationships.
- You handle the subjunctive, the conditional and relative pronouns with reasonable accuracy.
- You adapt your register to the situation.
An eight-week study plan
| Weeks | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mock exam; identify weaknesses |
| 2–3 | Argumentation: connectors, concession, essay structure |
| 4–5 | Speaking: one document a day with 30 min preparation |
| 6 | Listening and reading with authentic press material |
| 7 | Two full mock exams |
| 8 | Error review and rest |
Frequently asked questions
Is DELF B2 hard?
It is a significant step up from B1, mainly because you must argue rather than describe.
Does DELF B2 expire?
No. It is valid for life.
Is DELF B2 accepted for Canadian immigration?
No. IRCC accepts TEF Canada and TCF Canada for immigration.
How many words for the DELF B2 essay?
250 words minimum.