DELF, TEF or TCF?
Three exams, three different purposes. The right choice depends less on difficulty than on what you need the result for. Here is a clear comparison.
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.
Learners often ask which French exam is "best". The honest answer: it depends on your goal. The DELF is a diploma you pass or fail at a chosen level. TEF and TCF are tests that measure your level on a scale, whatever it is. For Canadian immigration, only TEF Canada and TCF Canada are accepted.
The short answer
| Your goal | Best choice |
|---|---|
| Canadian permanent residence (Express Entry) or citizenship | TEF Canada or TCF Canada |
| Studying at a French-speaking university | Often DELF B2, or a TCF/TEF version; requirements vary by institution |
| A lifelong certificate for your CV | DELF |
| A quick measure of your current level | TCF or TEF (general versions) |
Diploma vs test: the key difference
DELF: you register for one level (A1 to B2; DALF for C1–C2). If you reach the pass mark, you receive a diploma for that level, valid for life. If not, you get nothing at that level.
TEF and TCF: everyone takes the same test, and you receive a score that places you on a scale. There is no pass or fail, but results are generally valid for two years for official purposes such as immigration.
Side-by-side comparison
| DELF | TEF Canada | TCF Canada | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organiser | France Éducation international | CCI Paris Île-de-France | France Éducation international |
| Type | Diploma by level | Test with scores | Test with scores |
| Validity | Lifelong | 2 years for IRCC | 2 years for IRCC |
| Accepted by IRCC | No | Yes | Yes |
| Speaking test | Monologue + discussion (B2: 30 min preparation) | 2 role-plays, 15 min | 3 tasks, 12 min |
| Result | Pass/fail at chosen level | Score converted to NCLC | Score converted to NCLC |
If you are immigrating to Canada
Choose between TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Both convert to NCLC levels, and NCLC 7 is the most common target. TCF Canada's speaking test is shorter and divided into three predictable tasks; TEF Canada's includes a ten-minute persuasion task. Our TEF vs TCF comparison helps you decide.
If you want to study in French
DELF B2 is commonly requested for some university programmes, and some institutions accept a TCF or TEF result instead. Requirements vary by institution and programme, so always check the exact requirement before you register.
If you want a lasting certificate
The DELF is ideal: once you pass, it never expires and is recognised worldwide. Many learners take the DELF B1 or B2 as a milestone, even without a specific requirement.
Can you prepare for all three at once?
Largely, yes. The core skills are the same: developed answers, connectors, accurate past tenses, the ability to argue and listening to authentic French. What differs is the task format, so spend your final four to six weeks on the specific exam you will take.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DELF accepted for Canadian immigration?
No. IRCC accepts TEF Canada and TCF Canada for French.
Which exam is easiest?
None is objectively easiest; choose the one that matches your goal and your strengths.
Can I use a TCF tout public result for Canada?
For immigration, you need the Canada version of the test. Check canada.ca for the accepted tests.