Compare TEF Canada and TCF Canada for Canadian immigration. Learn the key differences in format, scoring, cost, and timing to choose the right test for your Express Entry application.
Prepare for Both TestsBoth TEF Canada and TCF Canada are approved French language tests for Canadian immigration programs including Express Entry. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts both tests equally—neither gives you an advantage for CRS points or immigration applications.
| Feature | TEF Canada | TCF Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Administrator | CCI Paris Île-de-France | France Éducation international |
| Test Duration | ~2 hours 55 minutes | ~2 hours 30 minutes |
| Listening Duration | 40 minutes (60 questions) | 25 minutes (29 questions) |
| Reading Duration | 60 minutes (50 questions) | 45 minutes (29 questions) |
| Writing Duration | 60 minutes (2 tasks) | 60 minutes (3 tasks) |
| Speaking Duration | 15 minutes (2 tasks) | 12 minutes (3 tasks) |
| Results Available | 3-5 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Validity Period | 2 years | 2 years |
| Cost (Approx.) | CAD $350-$450 | CAD $300-$400 |
| Format | Computer-based | Computer-based |
| Score Range (Writing) | 0-450 points | 0-20 points |
| IRCC Acceptance | ✅ Fully accepted | ✅ Fully accepted |
TCF Canada is shorter: The listening section is 25 minutes (29 questions) compared to TEF Canada's 40 minutes (60 questions). If you prefer shorter, more concise tests, TCF Canada may feel less exhausting.
TEF Canada has more questions: More questions can mean more opportunities to demonstrate your abilities, but also requires sustained concentration over longer periods.
TEF Canada (2 tasks):
TCF Canada (3 tasks):
TCF Canada requires more task-switching but with shorter texts. TEF Canada requires longer sustained writing on fewer topics.
TEF Canada uses a 0-450 point scale for writing and speaking, and 0-360 for listening, 0-300 for reading.
TCF Canada uses a 0-699 point scale for listening and reading, and 0-20 for writing and speaking.
Both convert to CLB levels identically, so the different scoring systems don't affect your immigration outcome.
TCF Canada provides results faster (2-3 weeks) compared to TEF Canada (3-5 weeks). If you need results urgently for an Express Entry draw, TCF Canada's faster turnaround could be advantageous.
Both tests are widely available, but availability varies by location. Some cities have more frequent TEF Canada test dates, while others offer TCF Canada more often. Check your local test centers for availability.
Important: Neither test is objectively easier. Your performance depends more on your French proficiency and practice than on which test you choose. Both tests are equally accepted by IRCC and will give you the same CLB level for equivalent performance.
Since both tests evaluate French proficiency at the same CLB levels, your preparation strategy is largely the same:
Focus on reaching CLB 9 or 10 in all skills to maximize your Express Entry CRS points, regardless of which test you take.
Both are French proficiency tests for Canadian immigration. TEF Canada is administered by CCI Paris Île-de-France with results in 3-5 weeks. TCF Canada is administered by France Éducation international with results in 2-3 weeks. Both are accepted equally for Express Entry.
Neither is objectively easier - difficulty depends on personal strengths. TCF Canada has slightly shorter listening section (25 min vs 40 min for TEF). TEF Canada has more structured writing tasks. Choose based on test format preference and availability.
No. IRCC accepts both TEF Canada and TCF Canada equally. A CLB 9 from TEF Canada is identical to a CLB 9 from TCF Canada for Express Entry CRS points. Choose whichever test suits you better.
Yes, you can take both tests and submit whichever gives you higher CLB levels. However, each test costs $300-$450, so it's more cost-effective to prepare well and take one test.
TCF Canada provides results in approximately 2-3 weeks, while TEF Canada takes 3-5 weeks. If you need results urgently for an Express Entry draw deadline, TCF Canada is faster.
WriteIn French provides AI-powered writing practice with instant feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and structure. Since both tests assess writing skills, regular practice helps you achieve high CLB levels on either TEF or TCF Canada.
Yes, you can take either test at any time. If you don't achieve your target CLB levels on one test, you can prepare and take the other. There's no restriction on switching between tests.
TCF Canada is slightly less expensive at most test centers (CAD $300-$400) compared to TEF Canada (CAD $350-$450). However, costs vary by location, so check with your local test center.
For Canadian immigration purposes, both are equal. For university admission, check specific requirements—most Canadian universities accept either test, but some may have preferences.
Contact an authorized test center in your area. For TEF Canada, visit the CCI Paris Île-de-France website to find centers. For TCF Canada, check the France Éducation international website for authorized locations.
Practice French writing with AI-powered feedback. Achieve the CLB levels you need for Canadian immigration, regardless of which test you choose.
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