Master French Language Exam Levels: DELF and TEF-IRN explained to Boost Your Confidence as an Expat in France

Living as an expat in France can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also comes with challenges, especially when it comes to mastering the French language.

Obtaining an official French certification, such as the DELF or the TEF-IRN, can significantly improve your language skills and confidence in speaking French. It may also be indispensable for remaining in France and obtaining residency, or even nationality.

In this article, I provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand the main features, differences, and benefits of the most common french language exam levels DELF and TEF-IRN, and choose the right certification for your goals as an expat in France.

French Language Exam Levels: DELF - TEF-IRN. What are we speaking about??

DELF: Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française

The DELF is a diploma issued by the French Ministry of National Education. It assesses the four language skills (listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral production, and written production) and is based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The DELF consists of four independent diplomas, corresponding to levels A1, A2, B1, and B2. Each diploma is valid for life.

TEF-IRN: Test d'Évaluation de Français pour l'accès à la nationalité française

The TEF-IRN is a test managed by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP). It is specifically designed for those who wish to obtain French nationality or validate their French language skills as an expat in France.

The TEF-IRN assesses the four language skills and consists of four mandatory tests: listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral expression, and written expression.

Differences and Similarities between Delf and TEF for an expat living in France.

1. Levels:

DELF: The DELF corresponds to levels A1, A2, B1, and B2 of the CEFR. Each level has its own characteristics

TEF-IRN: The TEF-IRN does not correspond to specific CEFR levels but evaluates the candidate's overall proficiency in French from A0 to B1+.

2. Structure:

DELF: The DELF consists of four independent diplomas, each with its own set of tests. more info here : https://www.france-education-international.fr/en/diplome/delf-tout-public?langue=en 

TEF-IRN: The TEF-IRN consists of four mandatory tests. Check out here : https://www.lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr/en/tests-diplomas/test-for-evaluating-french-tef/tef-irn/ 

3. Purpose:

DELF: The DELF certifies the level of French for personal, academic, or professional purposes.

TEF-IRN: The TEF-IRN is specifically designed for those who wish to obtain French nationality or validate their French language skills as an expat in France.

4. Validity:

DELF: Each DELF diploma is valid for life.

TEF-IRN: The TEF-IRN results are valid for two years.

Why take courses to prepare?

Whether you choose the DELF or the TEF-IRN, taking courses to prepare you for those french language exam levels is essential to maximize your chances of success and boost your confidence in speaking French as an expat in France. Online courses offer several advantages, such as:

• Adapted teaching to your level and objectives;

• Access to varied pedagogical resources (exercises, annals, methodological advice);

• Familiarization with the specific format and content of the chosen certification;

• Confidence-building and stress reduction on the day of the exam.

In conclusion:

As an expat in France, mastering the French language is crucial for personal and professional growth.

The DELF and TEF-IRN are two official French certifications designed for different purposes.

While the DELF is more versatile and valid for life, the TEF-IRN is specifically aimed at those seeking French nationality or looking to validate their language skills.

By understanding their differences and similarities, you can choose the right certification for your goals, boost your confidence in speaking French, and optimize your preparation with online courses.

Embark on this linguistic adventure and reach new heights in your French language journey!

PS : If you're wondering whether you're at a good enough level to prepare for an exam in French, you can test your knowledge with our free quiz.