The TCF Canada Exam
TCF Canada is the French test from France Éducation international, accepted by IRCC for immigration and citizenship. Here is the format, the official NCLC table 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.
TCF Canada is one of the two French tests accepted by IRCC, alongside TEF Canada. It is run by France Éducation international, the organisation behind the DELF and DALF diplomas. Many candidates choose it for its clear, predictable structure: two multiple-choice tests, a writing test with three short tasks and a twelve-minute speaking test.
The four tests
| Test | Skill | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compréhension orale | Listening | 35 min | 39 multiple-choice questions |
| Compréhension écrite | Reading | 60 min | 39 multiple-choice questions |
| Expression écrite | Writing | 60 min | 3 tasks, from a short message to a comparative argument |
| Expression orale | Speaking | 12 min | 3 tasks: interview, interaction, point of view |
The test lasts 2 hours 47 minutes in total. The listening and reading questions get progressively harder, from everyday situations to complex texts, so pace yourself and do not lose time early on.
Paper or computer?
Depending on the test centre, TCF Canada may be taken on paper or on a computer. The speaking test is always a face-to-face interview with an examiner. Ask your centre which format it uses when you register, and practise in the same format.
TCF Canada for immigration vs citizenship
The same TCF Canada is used for two different purposes. For economic immigration (for example Express Entry), you take all four tests and IRCC converts each score into an NCLC level; NCLC 7 is a common target. For Canadian citizenship, adults must show an adequate level in speaking and listening; check the current requirement and accepted tests on canada.ca before you book.
How TCF Canada is scored
Listening and reading are scored out of 699. Writing and speaking are scored out of 20. IRCC converts each score into an NCLC level:
| NCLC | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10+ | 549–699 | 549–699 | 16–20 | 16–20 |
| 9 | 523–548 | 524–548 | 14–15 | 14–15 |
| 8 | 503–522 | 499–523 | 12–13 | 12–13 |
| 7 | 458–502 | 453–498 | 10–11 | 10–11 |
| 6 | 398–457 | 406–452 | 7–9 | 7–9 |
| 5 | 369–397 | 375–405 | 6 | 6 |
| 4 | 331–368 | 342–374 | 4–5 | 4–5 |
Source: IRCC, Language test equivalency charts. IRCC may update these tables, so always check canada.ca before you apply.
The listening test
You hear short recordings, each played once: announcements, phone messages, conversations, radio extracts. Train your ear with varied accents and practise choosing an answer after one listening. Read the question before the recording starts so you know what to listen for.
The reading test
Documents range from short notices to opinion pieces. The difficulty rises steadily, so move quickly through the early questions to keep time for the long texts at the end.
The writing test
Three tasks in 60 minutes: a message of 60–120 words, an account or article of 120–150 words, and a comparative argument of 120–180 words based on two documents. Plan your time, answer every point in the instructions and keep a few minutes to reread. See our TCF Canada writing guide.
The speaking test
Three tasks in about 12 minutes: a two-minute guided interview, a role-play to obtain information (5 min 30 s including 2 minutes of preparation) and a 4 min 30 s point of view. Each task has its own method, covered in our TCF Canada speaking guide.
An 8-week preparation plan
| Weeks | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Full diagnostic test; list your three weakest points |
| 2–3 | Speaking Tasks 1 and 2; writing Task 1 |
| 4–5 | Speaking Task 3; writing Tasks 2 and 3 |
| 6 | Timed listening and reading practice every day |
| 7 | Two full mock tests |
| 8 | Review your error list; rest before the test |
Common mistakes
- Losing time on early reading questions, then rushing the hardest ones.
- Writing too little in the writing tasks.
- One-sentence answers in speaking Task 1.
- Switching tu and vous in speaking Task 2.
- A one-sided opinion in speaking Task 3.
Frequently asked questions
Is TCF Canada on paper or on a computer?
It can be either, depending on the test centre. The speaking test is conducted face to face with an examiner.
Can I retake TCF Canada?
Yes. France Éducation international states that you can take the TCF Canada as many times as you wish; check session dates and fees with your centre.
How long are the results valid?
For immigration, results must be less than two years old when you apply.
What score do I need for NCLC 7?
458 in listening, 453 in reading, and 10 out of 20 in writing and speaking.
Can I take TCF Canada online?
Check with France Éducation international and IRCC; for immigration, candidates usually take the test in an approved centre.