TEF Canada exam format, results and validity
Four tests, taken on the same day: reading, listening, writing and speaking. Here is what each one looks like, what score you need, and what happens after the exam.
The four tests at a glance
Compréhension de l’écrit (reading)
40 · 60 min
Multiple choice on written documents. 1 point per correct answer, 0 for a wrong or blank answer.
NCLC 7 for Express Entry: 207+ on the ancien score column
Compréhension de l’oral (listening)
40 · 40 min
Multiple choice on audio documents, scored the same way.
NCLC 7 for Express Entry: 249+ on the ancien score column
Expression écrite (writing)
2 sections · 60 min
Section A (25 min): continue an article, at least 80 words. Section B (35 min): give and justify a point of view, at least 200 words.
NCLC 7 for Express Entry: 310+ on the ancien score column
Expression orale (speaking)
2 sections · 15 min
Section A (5 min): obtain information. Section B (10 min): argue to convince.
NCLC 7 for Express Entry: 310+ on the ancien score column
The citizenship version of TEF Canada has two tests only: listening and speaking, in the same format.
There is no pass mark
TEF Canada doesn’t pass or fail you. Your results show a score per test, and immigration programs convert those scores to NCLC levels. Express Entry French-language draws need NCLC 7 in all four skills; some programs accept lower levels. Use the TEF score calculator to see where you stand.
Results
CCI Paris Île-de-France says results are sent within approximately 2 weeks. Each test is reported on a scale of 699, with an Équivalence ancien score next to it — the column Express Entry uses. If you disagree with a result, CCI accepts appeals for up to 30 days after the certificate is issued.
Validity
- CCI: the certificate is valid for two years from its date of issue.
- Express Entry: results must be less than 2 years old when you create your profile and when you submit your permanent residence application. If they’ll expire first, canada.ca suggests retesting, applying before they expire, or declining the invitation.
Retakes
You can’t sit the same TEF test twice within 20 days. Plan your exam date with that gap in mind if you might need a second attempt before an Express Entry deadline.
Try the format
Our free sample test has 12 TEF-style reading questions with explanations, and the listening practice test has 10 questions on short recordings that play once, as in the exam. They’re original practice questions, not official exam content.
Related
Frequently asked questions
How long is the TEF Canada exam?
The four tests add up to 2 hours 55 minutes of test time: reading 60 minutes, listening 40, writing 60 and speaking 15. All four must be taken on the same day for Canadian immigration.
What is the pass mark for TEF Canada?
There isn’t one. Your results are converted to NCLC levels, and each program sets its own minimum — for example NCLC 7 in all four skills for Express Entry French-language draws.
How long are TEF Canada results valid?
CCI Paris Île-de-France says the certificate is valid for two years from its date of issue. For Express Entry, canada.ca requires results to be less than 2 years old both when you create your profile and when you apply for permanent residence.
How soon can I retake TEF Canada?
CCI’s registration conditions say you can’t sit the same TEF test twice within 20 days; a registration that breaks this rule is cancelled.
Sources
- Le français des affaires (CCI Paris) — TEF Canada presentation — checked October 19, 2026
- Le français des affaires — TEF Canada — checked October 19, 2026
- Le français des affaires — TEF Canada results — checked October 19, 2026
- Le français des affaires — Conditions d’inscription et de passation — checked October 19, 2026
- canada.ca — Express Entry: language test results — checked October 19, 2026
Rules change. Always confirm on the official page before you submit an application.