Master the DELF B2 Exam: Your Complete Preparation Guide

WriteIn French is designed to help you ace the DELF B2 exam. Practice French writing with AI-powered feedback that catches grammar errors, improves your vocabulary, and strengthens your essay structure—essential skills for passing the writing section.

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Understanding the DELF B2 Certification

What is DELF?

DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is an official French proficiency certification administered by France Éducation International, part of the French Ministry of Education. As part of the CEFR framework (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), DELF certifications span levels A1 through B2, with DELF B2 representing upper-intermediate proficiency.

Unlike many language tests, your DELF certificate has lifetime validity and never expires, making it a permanent credential recognized worldwide.

Why Take DELF B2?

For University Students:

For Immigration:

For Career:

For Personal Growth:

What B2 Level Means

According to the CEFR, at B2 level you can:

Practical examples of B2 competency:

DELF B2 Key Facts

  • Level: Upper-Intermediate (B2 on CEFR scale)
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Sections: 4 (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
  • Total Points: 100 (25 points per section)
  • Pass Score: 50/100 minimum + minimum 5/25 per section
  • Validity: Lifetime (never expires)
  • Cost: €150-200 (varies by country/center)
  • Recognition: Worldwide

Not sure if B2 is the right level for you? Learn about all DELF levels or see how DELF compares to DALF.

DELF B2 Exam Structure: What to Expect

The DELF B2 exam consists of four independent sections testing different language skills. Each section is worth 25 points. To pass, you must score at least 50/100 total AND at least 5/25 in each individual section. This means you could score 48/100 and fail, or even score 24+24+24+0 and fail due to zero in one section.

Part 1: Compréhension de l'Oral (Listening)

Duration: ~30 minutes (25 minutes listening + 5 minutes to transfer answers)
Points: 25

Format: You'll complete 3 listening exercises based on authentic French audio recordings.

Exercise 1: Interview or Discussion (8-9 minutes audio)

  • Task: Answer comprehension questions
  • Topics: Authentic interview, radio broadcast, conference excerpt
  • Plays: Twice
  • Points: ~13

Exercise 2: Short Informational Audio (3-5 minutes)

  • Task: True/False or multiple choice questions
  • Topics: News report, announcement, documentary excerpt
  • Plays: Once only
  • Points: ~7

Exercise 3: Short Audio Clips (5-6 clips, 30-60 seconds each)

  • Task: Identify main idea, speaker's attitude, or purpose
  • Topics: Varied (ads, announcements, opinions)
  • Plays: Once
  • Points: ~5
Tips for Success:
  • Take notes while listening (you're allowed to write during audio)
  • Focus on key information: who, what, when, where, why
  • Don't panic if you miss a word - context helps fill gaps
  • Read questions before the audio starts
  • Listen for discourse markers: d'abord, ensuite, par contre, néanmoins

Common Topics: Education and professional life, environment and ecology, technology and society, culture and arts, social issues

Part 2: Compréhension des Écrits (Reading)

Duration: 60 minutes
Points: 25

Format: You'll read 2-3 authentic French texts and answer comprehension questions.

Exercise 1: Informative/Argumentative Text (500-700 words)

  • Task: Answer comprehension questions about main ideas and details
  • Format: Multiple choice, short answers
  • Points: ~13

Exercise 2: Opinion/Argumentative Text (400-600 words)

  • Task: Analyze the author's position, arguments, and tone
  • Format: Questions testing inference and interpretation
  • Points: ~12

Text Themes: Current events and social issues, scientific or cultural topics, professional situations, debate and opinion pieces

Tips for Success:
  • Skim the text first for general understanding
  • Read questions carefully before detailed reading
  • Underline key information in the text
  • Answers are in the text - avoid over-interpretation
  • Manage your time: approximately 25-30 minutes per text

Part 3: Production Écrite (Writing) - The Section WriteIn French Masters

Duration: 60 minutes
Length: 250 words minimum (aim for 250-300)
Points: 25

Task Type: You'll receive ONE writing task, either:

Option A: Personal Viewpoint Essay

  • Express and defend your opinion on a contemporary issue
  • Present structured arguments with examples
  • Example topics: Technology's impact on relationships, work-life balance, environmental responsibility

Option B: Formal Letter

  • Write to an authority or organization (complaint, request, recommendation)
  • Use appropriate formal correspondence format
  • Example topics: Letter to mayor about local issue, complaint to company, recommendation to institution

Scoring Criteria (25 points total):

  • Respect de la consigne (Task completion) - 5 points: Address all points in prompt, appropriate length, correct format
  • Capacité à présenter des faits (Content) - 6 points: Clear arguments, relevant examples, logical organization
  • Cohérence et cohésion (Organization) - 6 points: Logical flow, good paragraph structure, effective transitions
  • Compétence lexicale (Vocabulary) - 4 points: Varied and appropriate vocabulary, topic-specific terms
  • Compétence grammaticale (Grammar) - 4 points: Verb tenses and moods (especially subjunctive), agreement and syntax, complex structures

WriteIn French Advantage for Writing Section

Practice writing essays and formal letters with instant AI feedback on structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Develop the writing skills you need to succeed on the DELF B2 writing section.

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Recommended Essay Structure:

  • Introduction (50-70 words): Context and topic introduction, clear thesis statement
  • Body (150-180 words, 2-3 paragraphs): First main argument + example, second main argument + example, counterargument + rebuttal (if relevant)
  • Conclusion (40-50 words): Restate position, final thought or call to action

Essential Transition Words for B2:

  • To introduce: Tout d'abord, en premier lieu, il convient de noter que
  • To add: En outre, de plus, par ailleurs
  • To contrast: Cependant, néanmoins, en revanche
  • To conclude: En conclusion, ainsi, par conséquent

Part 4: Production Orale (Speaking)

Preparation: 30 minutes (supervised)
Exam Duration: ~20 minutes
Points: 25

Part 1: Monologue (Présentation d'un point de vue) - ~10 minutes

  • Choose between two topics provided during preparation
  • Present and defend your position (~5 minutes)
  • Answer examiner's questions (~5 minutes)
  • Points: ~13

Part 2: Debate/Discussion (Exercice en interaction) - ~10 minutes

  • Defend a position in a simulated debate
  • Respond to examiner's counterarguments
  • Negotiate or find compromise
  • Points: ~12
Speaking Tips:
  • Speak clearly at a moderate pace
  • Use varied vocabulary and grammatical structures
  • Don't memorize a speech - be natural and spontaneous
  • Address the examiner directly and maintain eye contact
  • If you don't understand, ask for clarification: "Pourriez-vous répéter, s'il vous plaît?"

Note: While WriteIn French specializes in writing preparation, we recommend finding a language exchange partner or tutor for speaking practice. The argumentation skills you develop through our writing practice will strengthen your ability to organize thoughts for the oral exam too!

Why DELF B2 Candidates Choose WriteIn French

Traditional DELF prep courses cost €300-500. Private tutors charge €30-50 per hour. WriteIn French offers affordable unlimited practice, focusing on the writing section—often the most challenging for non-native speakers.

🎯 French Writing Practice

Practice writing essays and formal letters in French. Get instant AI feedback to improve your writing skills and prepare for the exam writing section.

📊 Grammar Checking

Our AI identifies subjunctive errors, agreement mistakes, verb tense issues, and sentence structure weaknesses—all critical for B2 level writing.

📈 Vocabulary Enhancement

Get suggestions for more sophisticated vocabulary and phrasing to elevate your writing to B2 level and beyond.

📱 Writing Improvement

Identify recurring errors and grammar patterns to focus your study efforts where they matter most.

How WriteIn French Helps DELF B2 Preparation

Students use WriteIn French to practice French writing, get instant feedback on grammar and structure, improve their vocabulary and phrasing, and strengthen the writing skills needed for the DELF B2 exam.

How to Prepare for DELF B2: 3-Month Study Plan

Most candidates need 3-6 months to prepare for DELF B2, assuming you're already at a high B1/low B2 level. If starting from A2/B1, allow 6-12 months. Daily practice is more effective than weekend cramming.

Month 1: Assessment & Foundation (8-10 hours/week)

Weeks 1-2: Assess Your Level

Daily Routine (60-75 minutes/day):

Month 2: Intensive Skill Development (10-12 hours/week)

Weeks 5-6: Writing & Reading Focus

Weeks 7-8: Listening & Speaking Focus

Grammar Priorities for Month 2:

Month 3: Practice & Polish (12-15 hours/week)

Weeks 9-10: Full Practice Tests

Weeks 11-12: Target Weak Areas

Final Week Before Exam:

Recommended Resources for Self-Study

  • Books: "ABC DELF B2" (official prep), "Réussir le DELF B2"
  • Online: RFI Savoirs (free exercises), TV5Monde
  • Writing: WriteIn French (unlimited practice with AI feedback)
  • Listening: France Culture podcasts, RFI
  • Speaking: iTalki tutors, language exchange partners

Top 10 DELF B2 Writing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

The writing section is often the most challenging part of DELF B2. Many candidates lose points on avoidable errors. Understanding these common mistakes is the first step to preventing them.

1. Not Addressing All Prompt Points

Problem: Missing required elements results in automatic point deductions under "Respect de la consigne."

Example: Prompt asks for personal opinion + examples + counterargument, but candidate only provides opinion.

Solution: Create a checklist of all prompt requirements before writing and verify after completion. WriteIn French highlights if you've missed prompt elements.

2. Insufficient Length

Problem: Writing under 250 words results in point penalties.

Solution: Aim for 260-280 words to have a safety buffer. Practice writing to exact word counts during preparation.

3. Wrong Register (Informal in Formal Letter)

Problem: Using "tu" or casual language in formal correspondence.

Example: Writing "Salut" instead of "Madame/Monsieur" in a formal letter.

Solution: Memorize formal letter opening phrases: "Je me permets de vous écrire afin de..." Use vous exclusively in formal contexts.

4. Weak or Missing Thesis

Problem: No clear position statement in the introduction.

Solution: Include an explicit thesis using formulas like "Je suis convaincu(e) que..." or "Il me semble indéniable que..."

5. Lack of Examples and Development

Problem: General statements without supporting details.

Example: "Technology is bad for society." (no explanation provided)

Solution: Follow this structure for each argument: Claim → Explanation → Specific Example

6. Poor Organization and Transitions

Problem: Ideas jump around without logical flow.

Solution: Use transition words consistently: En premier lieu (First), En outre (Moreover), Néanmoins (However), Par conséquent (Therefore), En conclusion (In conclusion)

7. Subjunctive Errors

Problem: This is the most common grammar mistake at B2 level.

Triggers requiring subjunctive:

  • Expressions of necessity: il faut que, il est nécessaire que
  • Expressions of doubt: je doute que, il est peu probable que
  • Conjunctions: bien que, pour que, avant que

Solution: WriteIn French automatically flags missing or incorrect subjunctive usage with explanations.

8. Agreement Mistakes (Gender/Number)

Problem: Incorrect adjective and past participle agreements.

Example: "Les solutions proposés" (should be "proposées")

Solution: Always check agreements during proofreading. Past participles with être agree with the subject.

9. Limited Vocabulary Range

Problem: Repetitive use of basic words (être, avoir, faire, bon, mauvais).

Solution: Use synonyms and advanced vocabulary:

  • Instead of "bon": bénéfique, avantageux, favorable
  • Instead of "mauvais": néfaste, préjudiciable, défavorable
  • Instead of "faire": accomplir, réaliser, effectuer

10. No Time for Proofreading

Problem: Submitting first draft with careless errors.

Solution: Save 10 minutes to proofread. Check: All prompt points addressed? Thesis clear? Transitions present? Agreements correct? Verb forms correct? Accents included?

How WriteIn French Prevents These Mistakes

Our AI catches all 10 of these common mistakes and provides specific corrections with explanations. Practice with feedback before exam day to eliminate these errors from your writing permanently.

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How to Register for DELF B2

Where to Take DELF B2

DELF B2 is administered at official test centers worldwide, including:

To find your nearest center:

  1. Visit the France Éducation International website
  2. Select your country
  3. View approved centers and available exam dates
  4. Contact the center directly to register

Registration Process

Timeline: Register 6-8 weeks before your desired exam date. Some centers fill up quickly, so register early. Each session has limited spots.

Documents Needed:

Costs:

Exam Dates: DELF B2 is typically offered 4-6 times per year, most commonly in March, May, September, and November. Exact dates vary by center, so check locally.

Exam Day

What to Bring:

What NOT to Bring:

Typical Exam Schedule:

Results Timeline

Passing Criteria

Retaking the Exam

If you don't pass:

DELF B2: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DELF B2 level equivalent to?

DELF B2 is equivalent to "Upper Intermediate" or "Independent User" level on the CEFR scale. It's roughly comparable to Cambridge English First (FCE), TOEFL 72-94, or IELTS 5.5-6.5. At B2, you can understand complex texts, interact fluently with native speakers, and produce detailed writing on various topics.

How long does it take to prepare for DELF B2?

If you're already at B1 level, expect 3-6 months of consistent study (10-15 hours/week). Starting from A2 level requires 6-12 months. Complete beginners typically need 400-600 hours of study to reach B2, which takes 1-2 years with regular practice.

Is DELF B2 hard to pass?

DELF B2 has a moderate difficulty level. Pass rates are around 70-75% globally. The writing section is often most challenging for non-native speakers. With proper preparation (3+ months), most dedicated learners at B1 level can pass.

Can I prepare for DELF B2 by myself?

Yes, self-study is possible and common. You'll need quality resources: WriteIn French for writing practice, textbooks like "ABC DELF B2," French media for listening/reading, and language exchange partners for speaking. Self-study requires discipline but is cost-effective.

What's the difference between DELF and DALF?

DELF covers levels A1-B2 (beginner to upper-intermediate), while DALF covers C1-C2 (advanced to mastery). DELF B2 is the highest DELF level. Both are official diplomas from the French Ministry of Education and never expire. Learn more about the differences.

Do I need DELF B2 for French university?

Yes, most French universities require DELF B2 or equivalent (TCF B2, TEF B2) for admission to programs taught in French. Graduate programs may require C1. Always check specific university requirements.

Can I use DELF B2 for Canadian immigration?

DELF B2 is accepted by some Canadian immigration programs but NOT for Express Entry (which requires TEF Canada or TCF Canada). For Quebec immigration, DELF B2 may be accepted for some programs. Check official requirements for your specific pathway. Learn more about French exams for Canada.

How is DELF B2 different from TEF or TCF?

DELF B2 is a diploma (lifetime validity) while TEF/TCF are proficiency tests (valid 2 years). DELF is more education-focused; TEF/TCF are primarily used for immigration. DELF tests only the B2 level; TEF/TCF test all levels and score you accordingly.

What if I fail one section of DELF B2?

You fail the entire exam if you score below 5/25 in any single section OR below 50/100 total. Some test centers allow you to retake only the failed section(s) within one year. Check your center's retake policy.

What topics should I study for DELF B2?

Common themes include: education and career, environment and ecology, technology and society, culture and media, social issues, health, travel, and current events. Read French news regularly to build knowledge and vocabulary across these topics.

Is DELF B2 recognized internationally?

Yes, DELF is recognized worldwide by employers, universities, and governments. It's particularly valued in French-speaking countries and international organizations. It's the most widely recognized French certification globally.

Can I take DELF B2 without taking B1 first?

Yes! DELF levels are independent. You can take whichever level matches your current proficiency. There's no requirement to pass lower levels first. Most candidates go straight to B2 if they're at that level.

What's a good score on DELF B2?

Passing is 50/100, but universities and employers often prefer 60+. Scoring 70+ demonstrates strong B2 competency. 80+ is excellent and suggests you may be approaching C1 level. Most candidates score between 55-70.

Start Your DELF B2 Preparation Today

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  • ✓ French writing practice for exam preparation
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  • ✓ Grammar checking for subjunctive, agreements, and more
  • ✓ Vocabulary suggestions to improve your writing
  • ✓ Error pattern identification to focus your study
  • ✓ Practice writing essays and formal letters
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