TEF vs TCF Canada, Difference Between TEF and TCF Exam

TCF full form is the French Knowledge Test for Canada, and TEF full form is the French Evaluation Test. In Canada, the test findings are validated and recognised. If you plan to go to Quebec, there is a different exam format and scoring rules for the TCF and TEF Canada. We suggest you consult with your centre or institution about which exam they require, as some universities prefer one or the other. Moreover, you can opt for one of two tests if you want to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Even though both exams aim to check French language skills, they have different purposes. We have broken down both reviews so you can understand them easily. The TEF exam is recognised as an official language competency test to apply for permanent residency, as approved and accepted by the Quebec Ministry of Immigration and Cultural Communities (MICC). The test is available in two versions: 

1. Paper exam

2. Computerized examination

The TCF exam is the same as the TEF, which is official proof of French language proficiency recognised by IRCC for permanent residence (PR). The TCF is also mandatory if you plan to immigrate to Quebec; you must clear TCFQ.

Let us know the exam format of the TCF and TEF exams to determine the differences between both exams.

TCF Exam Format

TEF Exam Format 

The speaking section checks candidates' ability to speak French and their communication skills. TEF Canada consists of two sections: Section A is about getting information for the test, and Section B is about conversing with someone. The writing section assesses the ability to express a point of view. Section A is about writing articles, while Section B asks you to represent yourself.

In the listening module, candidates must listen to and understand audio extracts in French. The questions will be multiple-choice. Further, the reading section will test a candidate's ability to read, evaluate and comprehend written materials. The questions are asked in the form of MCQs. Vocabulary and syntax assess a candidate's ability to use correct punctuation and grammar. The paper is in the form of multiple-choice questions.

During the listening test, MCQs are asked based on a video recording. The section tests the aspirant's ability to assess and understand familiar words and phrases. Grammar and vocabulary are tested to check a candidate's mastery of linguistic structures. Questions range from identifying lexical errors to choosing the correct language.

Learners are assessed on their ability to read conversations or articles in reading. The oral exam is optional; the examiner will take your interview for approximately 15 minutes. The questions will start at level A1 and go to level C2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The examiner may ask you to talk about an experience, a place or a person and an experience to analyse your speaking skills.

The written exam is also optional. In this exam, you will have to complete three exercises. The first task will ask you to write a short message of at most 120 words. The second task includes a brief letter/message/note of at least 150 words. For the third exercise, the candidate must write two opinion pieces of approximately 180 words each.

Please note that both tests are equally complex and easy to solve, depending on your preparation. Find sample papers and try to decipher them both. Further, take the exam that most appeals to you and aligns with your objectives. The exam results for both exams are valid for up to two years. After two years, you will need to reapply for the exam.

Both the TEF and TCF exams have hundreds of accredited test centres worldwide. Tests are carried out throughout the year. To apply for the exam, contact your exam centre after evaluating the requirements of your chosen university. Evaluate both exams and match your case with them accordingly.

The validity of the exam results for both tests is up to two years. You will need to reapply for a test after two years.

There are regulations for appearing in exams. For the TCF and TEF Canada, there are the same rules and regulations that you must follow. To help you with the process you need to follow, read ahead:

• Check with your supervisor at the exam centre. Bring a copy of the exam notification email and your government-approved ID card, e.g., your passport, Aadhar card,  PAN card, or voter ID. Remember that it is mandatory to bring an identity card. You must present your identity card to be allowed to take the exam, regardless of the circumstances.

• After the documents are verified, you will be taken to your assigned place to present yourself for the exam. Keep your ID card on the table for further verification, saving you time.

• Apart from the pen and ID card, no additional materials can be kept during the exam. If you don't follow this, you will be asked to leave the room. If you are late and the exam has already started, you will not be allowed to enter under any circumstances. Further, candidates who engage in misconduct, fraud and trouble will be prohibited from taking the exams for a fixed period set by the CCI Paris for the TEF and the CIEP for the TCF.

Results of the TCF exam are sent in four to eight weeks to the testing facility where it took place. When the results are prepared for pickup, the testing centre gets in touch with the applicant.

Within 15 business days of receiving the session materials, the testing centre receives the TEF findings. The testing centre then forwards the results to each candidate. You will receive the results in four to six weeks.

The candidate will receive one original copy of their certificate. It is, therefore, preferable to retain an additional certified copy of the certificate.

For the TEF exam result you will receive your exam results from the test centre within 15 working days. The test centre sends the results to each candidate, so you don't have to worry about the same. However, it may take 4-6 weeks to receive the exam results. Meanwhile, for the TCF exam, you can check your results within 4-8 weeks after the test.

TEF Canada Test Scores

The table below shows the test scores of the TEF exam against the CLB level in every section:

TCF Canada Test Scores

The components of the Test de Connaissance du français pour le Canada are listed below according to CLB level:

To sum up, the blog discussed TEF vs TCF Canada in detail, and it is concluded that both the exams are similar and require checking French-speaking skills to study in Quebec, Canada. To study in Canada, you must be fluent in one of its two official languages, i.e., English and French. Most Indian students prefer IELTS or TOEFL, but some universities specifically ask for TEF vs TCF Canada exam scores. You must confirm which exam you want to take with your chosen university. Also, you can check the syllabus of both tests and compare the scores and formats of TEF vs TCF Canada tests.

We hope this blog has helped you learn about the TEF vs TCF Canada exam. However, if you want to study in Canada and have doubts, contact our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). You can also take free online counselling through our website. Our expert counsellors will provide you with the best support and guidance you need for admission and visa. For more information or any queries, contact application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.

Question: Which test is preferable: TEF or TCF Canada?

Answer: TEF and TCF are equally essential yet serve different roles. The exam is designed to assess your French proficiency and eligibility for immigration.

Question: What is the required level of French for TEF Canada?

Answer: The level of French needed for TEF Canada is a minimum of 7. However, reducing the minimum level is critical to progress and passing with flying colours.

Question: How difficult is TCF and TEF Canada exams?

Answer: Both tests are used to evaluate French proficiency and immigration. So there is no such thing as hard or easy. It is simply a test of your French skills.

Question: What is TEF and TCF?

Answer: For academic, professional, or personal purposes, the TEF (Test d'Evaluation de Français) and TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) are officially recognised tests for determining and validating a level of French proficiency.

Question: Is TCF Canada accepted for Quebec?

Answer: TCF Quebec and TCF Canada are different from one another. TCF Quebec is recommended if your goal is to move to Quebec, as the province's government has authorised it.

Question: How long does it take to receive results from TEF Canada and TCF?

Answer: Results for TCF and TEF Canada may take four to six weeks. Typically, the testing facility receives the results and notifies the candidates via phone when the results are ready.

Question: How much does it cost to take the TEF and TCF Canada exams?

Answer: The cost of registering for TEF and TCF Canada differs depending on the nation and testing location. It ranges from INR 12,000 to INR 25,000 in India, depending on how many papers one completes. Once the registration process is complete, the cost is not refundable.

Question: How often may I take the tests for TEF and TCF?

Answer: The exam can be taken as many times as necessary without any restrictions; however, it is important to ensure that a two-month gap remains between attempting the exam.

Question: What level of French is required for TEF Canada?

Answer: A minimum of 7 in French is required for TEF Canada. However, advancing and passing with distinction is critical, eliminating the minimal need.

Question: What Job profiles after taking TEF and TCF?

Answer: The job profiles after TEF or TCF are as follows: translator, Tour guide, Teacher, French jobs in MNCs, BPOs, IT and call centres, French jobs in foreign embassies, Career opportunities as a translator and interpreter, travel tourism, leisure and hospitality industry jobs, and much more.