DELF, DALF, TCF: Which French Exam Is for You?
Three acronyms, one common confusion. The right French exam depends on why you need it, not on how good your French is. Here is the difference between the DELF, the DALF and the TCF, and how to pick the one your goal actually requires.
The difference in one minute
The core distinction is simple. The DELF and DALF are official diplomas you earn once and keep for life. The TCF is a test that measures your level at a moment in time and stays valid for two years. Same European scale (CEFR, A1 to C2) behind all of them, but a diploma and a test are used for different things.
The short answer
DELF certifies levels A1 to B2, DALF covers C1 and C2, and both are permanent diplomas from the French Ministry of Education. The TCF is a levelling test valid two years, with dedicated versions for university admission and for residence or citizenship applications. Pick by purpose: a lifelong proof, or a quick administrative snapshot.
DELF, DALF and TCF explained
DELF
Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française. Four separate diplomas, one per level from A1 to B2, each testing listening, reading, writing and speaking. Once you pass, it never expires. The B2 is the one most people aim for.
DALF
Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française. The advanced continuation of the DELF, covering C1 and C2. Also a lifelong diploma, used for academic and professional recognition at a high level.
TCF
Test de Connaissance du Français. Not a pass-or-fail diploma but a test that places you on the scale. Specific versions exist: TCF DAP for undergraduate university applications, and TCF-IRN for residence and nationality procedures.
You may also meet the TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français), a comparable test issued by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and accepted for many of the same administrative purposes.
DELF vs DALF vs TCF
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| DELF | DALF | TCF | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Diploma | Diploma | Levelling test |
| Levels | A1, A2, B1, B2 | C1, C2 | A1 to C2 (single sitting) |
| Result | Pass / fail, per level | Pass / fail, per level | A score placing you on the scale |
| Validity | For life | For life | 2 years |
| Issued by | France Éducation International (French Ministry of Education) | France Éducation International | |
| Best for | Permanent proof: study, work, citizenship | High-level academic or professional recognition | Fast administrative need with a set deadline |
Which exam do you actually need?
Start from your goal and the level it requires. France raised several of these thresholds on 1 January 2026, so the numbers below are the current ones.
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| Your goal | Level needed (2026) | Common choice |
|---|---|---|
| Enter France on a long-stay visa | No language exam to enter | — |
| First multi-year residence card | A2 | TCF-IRN or DELF A2 |
| Ten-year resident card | B1 | TCF-IRN or DELF B1 |
| French citizenship | B2 (oral & written) | DELF B2 (never expires) |
| Undergraduate at a French university | Usually B2 | TCF DAP or DELF B2 |
| Master's or skilled work | B2, sometimes C1 | DELF B2 or DALF C1 |
New since 1 January 2026
The language bar went up. Residence and citizenship applicants now also sit a civic knowledge exam (a multiple-choice test on French history, values and institutions, passed at 80%). Citizenship moved from B1 to B2. Rules and exemptions change, so always confirm the current requirement for your exact situation with the official French administration before you book an exam.
Why many people choose the DELF B2
If your plan includes staying in France long term, the DELF B2 is often the efficient choice. It sits at the level required for citizenship and for most universities, and because it is a diploma it never expires. A TCF taken today is only valid for two years, so if your application slips, you may have to sit it again. Passing the DELF B2 once can cover several steps of your journey at the same time. Whichever you choose, our DELF and DALF preparation gets you exam-ready.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the DELF and the DALF?
They are the same family of official diploma, split by level. The DELF covers A1 to B2, and the DALF covers the advanced C1 and C2. You take the DELF first and move up to the DALF once you reach an advanced level. Both are lifelong diplomas.
Is the TCF the same as the DELF?
No. The DELF is a diploma you pass and keep for life. The TCF is a test that scores your level at a given moment and is valid for two years. Use the TCF when an administration accepts it and you have a deadline; use the DELF when you want permanent proof.
Which French exam do I need for citizenship in 2026?
Since 1 January 2026, French citizenship requires level B2 in both spoken and written French, up from B1. Most applicants prove it with the DELF B2, which never expires, or with an accepted TCF. A civic knowledge exam is also required. Always confirm the current rules for your case with the French administration.
Does the DELF or DALF expire?
No. Once you pass a DELF or DALF, the diploma is valid for life. This is a key advantage over the TCF and TEF, whose results expire after two years.
Which exam should I take for a French residence card?
As of 2026, a first multi-year residence card requires A2 and a ten-year resident card requires B1, each with a civic exam. Applicants commonly use the TCF-IRN, the version designed for these procedures, or a matching DELF level. Check the exact requirement for your permit before booking.
Which exam is best for applying to a French university?
Undergraduate applications through the DAP procedure usually accept the TCF DAP or a DELF B2. Many master's programmes accept the DELF B2 or a DALF C1. Confirm the level and accepted exams with the specific institution.