TCF Canada vs TEF Canada: Which French Test Should You Take?

If you're applying for Canadian immigration and want to claim French language points, you'll need either TCF Canada or TEF Canada. Both are officially recognized, but they have important differences.

Why Take a French Test for Canada?

Extra CRS Points

French proficiency can add up to 50+ additional CRS points for Express Entry:

Strong French + Strong English: Up to 50 bonus points

French NCLC 7+ in all skills: Significant point boost

Quebec Programs

For Quebec immigration (PEQ, CSQ, etc.), French proficiency is often mandatory.

TCF Canada Overview

Test de Connaissance du Français pour le Canada

Provider: France Education International

Format: Computer or paper-based

Duration: ~2.5 hours

Cost: CAD $350-400

Results: 2-3 weeks

TCF Canada Structure:

1. Listening: 35 minutes, 39 questions

2. Reading: 60 minutes, 45 questions

3. Writing: 60 minutes, 3 tasks

4. Speaking: 12 minutes, 3 tasks (with examiner)

TEF Canada Overview

Test d'Évaluation de Français pour le Canada

Provider: CCI Paris

Format: Computer-based

Duration: ~2.5 hours

Cost: CAD $350-450

Results: 2-4 weeks

TEF Canada Structure:

1. Listening: 40 minutes, 60 questions

2. Reading: 60 minutes, 50 questions

3. Writing: 60 minutes, 2 tasks

4. Speaking: 15 minutes, 2 sections (with examiner)

NCLC Score Comparison

Both tests convert to NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens):

NCLC LevelTCF ScoreTEF Score NCLC 10+549-699393-450 NCLC 9523-548371-392 NCLC 8499-522349-370 NCLC 7458-498310-348 NCLC 6398-457271-309 NCLC 5369-397226-270

Key Differences

Listening Section

TCF CanadaTEF Canada 39 questions60 questions 35 minutes40 minutes 3 sectionsMultiple short sections More time per questionFaster pace needed

Reading Section

TCF CanadaTEF Canada 45 questions50 questions Varied text lengthsGenerally shorter texts Mix of formatsMultiple choice focused

Writing Section

TCF CanadaTEF Canada 3 tasks2 tasks Shorter piecesLonger, more complex 60 mins total60 mins total More varietyEssay focus

Speaking Section

TCF CanadaTEF Canada 12 minutes15 minutes 3 tasks2 sections Face-to-face examinerFace-to-face examiner Role play includedDiscussion + argumentation

Which Test is Easier?

TCF Canada May Be Better If:

✅ You prefer more questions with shorter time pressure per question

✅ You want more variety in writing tasks

✅ You're comfortable with multiple-choice heavy formats

✅ You like structured, predictable formats

TEF Canada May Be Better If:

✅ You're stronger at longer, cohesive writing

✅ You prefer argumentation and debate in speaking

✅ You're comfortable with faster-paced listening

✅ You have experience with business French

Honest Truth:

Most test-takers find them similarly difficult. Your choice should depend on:

1. Test availability in your location

2. Which format suits your learning style

3. Which practice materials are available to you

Test Availability

TCF Canada:

Available in 100+ countries

Many Alliance Française centers

Regular test dates

TEF Canada:

Available in 80+ countries

CCI-affiliated centers

Frequent in Canada

Our Recommendations

For Express Entry (Federal Programs):

Either test works equally well. Choose based on:

Availability in your area

Practice material availability

Personal preference for format

For Quebec Programs:

Both accepted, but:

TEF traditionally more common in Quebec context

TCF increasingly popular

Check specific program requirements

Strategy Tips:

1. Take free practice tests for both

2. Choose ONE test and commit fully

3. Target NCLC 7+ in all sections for meaningful CRS points

4. Don't underestimate French - it requires dedicated preparation

5. Book early - test dates fill up quickly

Preparation Resources

TCF Canada:

France Education International official practice

TV5Monde preparation materials

RFI Savoirs exercises

TEF Canada:

CCIP official preparation

Français Facile exercises

Le Point du FLE resources

Both Tests:

Alliance Française courses

Private tutoring

Language exchange partners

French podcasts and news

Conclusion

TCF Canada and TEF Canada are both excellent, officially recognized French tests for Canadian immigration. Neither is objectively "easier" - it depends on your individual strengths and preferences.

Key action steps:

1. Take practice tests for both

2. Choose the format that suits you better

3. Prepare thoroughly

4. Target NCLC 7+ for maximum CRS benefit

Pro Tip: If you're bilingual (English + French), you can gain up to 50+ extra CRS points. This can make the difference between getting an ITA or not!