TCF test format: structure, sections and results
Understand the TCF format, the four language skills assessed, and the differences between TCF Canada and TCF Québec so you can prepare for the test that matches your goals.
For immigration and citizenship procedures in Canada.
For immigration procedures in Québec.
What is the TCF?
The Test de connaissance du français (TCF) is a French-language proficiency test developed by France Éducation international. It assesses several language skills and places results according to the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The TCF Canada and TCF Québec are based on the same core language skills, but their administrative organization and required test sections do not serve exactly the same purposes.
The 4 language skills assessed on the TCF
The TCF can assess your French through four distinct language skills.
Listening
comprehension
Reading
comprehension
Written
expression
Oral
expression
TCF Canada or TCF Québec: what is the difference in format?
TCF CANADA
- All 4 language skills are mandatory.
- Listening and reading comprehension.
- Oral and written expression.
- Results can be converted into NCLC levels for the relevant Canadian immigration programs.
TCF QUÉBEC
- TCF Québec is modular.
- One to four sections may be taken depending on your needs.
- Requirements depend on the immigration procedure or program concerned.
- Always check which language skills are required before registering.
Do not choose your TCF Québec sections solely based on a target level. Check the official requirements of the immigration program or procedure for which you will submit your results.
Understanding TCF scores
Each language skill is assessed separately. The administrative interpretation of your results then depends on your specific goal.
Listening and reading comprehension
The comprehension sections produce a result that indicates your level of French. Each skill is reported separately on your official score report.
Oral and written expression
Your oral and written productions are assessed according to criteria defined for each skill. The result also indicates your proficiency level.
For Canadian immigration
For the relevant programs, IRCC uses equivalency tables to convert TCF Canada results into NCLC levels.
View NCLC equivalencies ↗Now that you understand the TCF format, start practicing.
Choose a preparation pathway that matches your goals and practice the language skills that are actually assessed on your test.
Frequently asked questions about the TCF format
What is the difference between TCF Canada and TCF Québec?
TCF Canada includes four mandatory sections: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral expression and written expression. TCF Québec is modular: candidates can take the sections they need according to their procedure and the requirements of the relevant program.
How long does TCF Canada take?
The four TCF Canada sections have a total duration of approximately 2 hours 47 minutes: 35 minutes for listening comprehension, 60 minutes for reading comprehension, 60 minutes for written expression and 12 minutes for oral expression.
Are all four sections mandatory for TCF Québec?
No. TCF Québec is a modular test. You must determine which language skills you need based on your project and check the official requirements of the relevant Québec program.
How long can TCF results be used for immigration purposes?
For several immigration procedures, including Express Entry, language test results must be less than two years old when they are used. However, always check the rules of the program to which you are submitting your application.
How are TCF Canada results converted into NCLC levels?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada publishes equivalency tables to determine the corresponding NCLC level for the result obtained in each of the four TCF Canada language skills.