Which test should I take?
TEF Canada vs TCF Canada: Which French Test Should You Take?
Both tests are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry and both convert to the same NCLC scale, so neither one gives you more CRS points. The real differences are the question format, the scoring scale and which test you can book in time. Here is how they compare.
The four skills
TEF Canada and TCF Canada, Side by Side
| TEF Canada | TCF Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Run by | Le français des affaires (CCI Paris Île-de-France) | France Éducation international |
| Reading | 40 questions · 60 min | 39 questions · 60 min, easier to harder (A1 → C2) |
| Listening | 40 questions · 40 min | 39 questions · 35 min, easier to harder (A1 → C2) |
| Writing | 2 sections · 60 min: finish a news story (80 words min.) + a letter to a newspaper giving your opinion (200 words min.) | 3 tasks · 60 min: a message (60–120 words), an article (120–150), a comparison of two documents (120–180) |
| Speaking | 2 sections · about 15 min: get information (5 min) + convince someone (10 min) | 3 tasks · about 12 min: guided interview, role-play with 2 min preparation, point of view |
| Scores reported | Reading /300, listening /360, writing and speaking /450 (newer certificates also show a "Score / 699" column, which IRCC says not to use for Express Entry) | Reading and listening /699, writing and speaking /20 |
| Converted to | NCLC, per skill | NCLC, per skill |
Formats can change. Always check the official exam page before you book: TEF Canada · TCF Canada.
Express Entry
Does One Test Give More CRS Points?
No. IRCC converts each test's scores to NCLC levels, and CRS points come from the NCLC level, not from the test name. NCLC 7 on the TEF Canada and NCLC 7 on the TCF Canada are worth exactly the same points.
| Skill | TEF Canada | TCF Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 207 / 300 | 453 / 699 |
| Listening | 249 / 360 | 458 / 699 |
| Writing | 310 / 450 | 10 / 20 |
| Speaking | 310 / 450 | 10 / 20 |
Last checked against IRCC: October 27, 2026 (IRCC language test equivalency tables). Full charts: TEF Canada scores to NCLC · TCF Canada scores to NCLC.
French-language Express Entry draws invite candidates who have at least NCLC 7 in all four skills. Check what your scores convert to with the NCLC calculator, and see recent cut-offs on the French draws page.
Decision
How to Choose Between TEF and TCF
- 1Check dates first. If your Express Entry deadline is close, the test with the earliest available date near you is usually the right one. See test centres in Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa.
- 2Try a sample of each. Do the free TEF Canada practice test and the free TCF Canada practice test. Many people find one format clearly more comfortable.
- 3Think about writing. TEF writing asks for two longer texts (the end of a news story and an opinion letter to a newspaper). TCF writing asks for three shorter texts, including a comparison of two documents.
- 4Think about speaking. TEF speaking is two role-plays with an examiner. TCF speaking has three tasks, from a simple interview to giving your point of view.
- 5Pick one and prepare for its format. Switching between the two wastes study time, because each test's question types are different.
Next step
Preparing for Your Test
Once you've chosen, start from the hub for your exam: TEF Canada hub or TCF Canada hub. Each links the format, the scoring chart, booking, free practice and example answers for writing and speaking.
Frenchly is an independent practice tool. It is not affiliated with Le français des affaires, France Éducation international or IRCC, and it does not guarantee any score or immigration result.
Questions
TEF Canada vs TCF Canada FAQ
Is the TEF Canada or the TCF Canada easier?
Neither is officially easier. They measure similar French ability and both convert to the same NCLC scale. Some people prefer one format, so try a practice set of each before you book.
Can I use either test for Express Entry?
Yes. IRCC accepts both TEF Canada and TCF Canada results for Express Entry. Results are valid for two years; IRCC checks them when you complete your profile and when you apply. See [how long TEF and TCF results are valid](/tef-tcf-results-validity).
What score do I need on each test for NCLC 7?
On IRCC's tables, NCLC 7 starts at 207 reading, 249 listening and 310 writing and speaking on the TEF Canada, and at 453 reading, 458 listening and 10/20 writing and speaking on the TCF Canada. Each skill converts separately.
Can I take both tests?
Yes, but you only need one valid French result for Express Entry. Most people save time and money by choosing one test and preparing for its format.
Next step
Practise the exact format of your exam
Frenchly has separate practice for TEF Canada and TCF Canada, full mock exams (five for each exam), and AI feedback from Sophie on writing and speaking. 14 days free.