TEF Canada vs TCF Canada: Which Exam Should You Choose for Immigration?
TEF Canada vs TCF Canada is one of the most common comparisons made by students planning for Canadian immigration. Both exams are officially recognized by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) to prove French proficiency, but they differ slightly in format, structure, and scoring. While the TEF Canada focuses on evaluating comprehension and expression through fixed sections, the TCF Canada offers a more adaptive testing approach. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right exam based on your strengths, preparation time, and target CRS score.
When planning to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), candidates often ask: “Should I take the TEF Canada exam or the TCF Canada exam?” Both are recognized by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) as valid proof of French language proficiency. However, there are differences in exam format, difficulty, scoring, and suitability depending on your learning style.
In this guide, we’ll break down TEF Canada vs TCF Canada, so you can make the right choice for your immigration journey.
What is TEF Canada?
The Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF Canada) is a French language proficiency test conducted by the CCI Paris Île-de-France.
TEF Canada Exam Format
- Written comprehension: 60 minutes – 40 questions
- Oral comprehension: ~40 minutes – 40 questions
- Written expression: 60 minutes – 2 topics
- Oral expression: 15 minutes – 2 topics
This structure evaluates how well you can understand, analyze, and express yourself in French in both written and spoken contexts.
Key Features:
- More challenging compared to TCF, especially writing.
- Flexible in terms of test centers and availability.
- Preferred by candidates who are confident in structured writing and speaking.
What is TCF Canada?
The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF Canada) is managed by France Éducation International.
TCF Canada Exam Format:
- Listening: 39 questions (35 minutes)
- Reading: 39 questions (60 minutes)
- Writing: 3 tasks (60 minutes)
- Speaking: 3 tasks (12 minutes)
Key Features:
- Writing tasks are generally simpler than TEF.
- Speaking section includes role-play situations.
- Often considered slightly easier for beginners.
👉 For a detailed breakdown, read our guide:
TCF Canada Exam Format: Complete Guide for 2025
TEF Canada vs TCF Canada: Main Differences
| Feature | TEF Canada | TCF Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | CCI Paris Île-de-France | France Éducation International |
| Duration | ~3 hours | ~2.5 hours |
| Writing Tasks | 2 (formal + essay) | 3 (shorter, simpler) |
| Speaking Tasks | 2 tasks | 3 tasks (including role-play) |
| Difficulty Level | Slightly higher | Slightly easier |
| Recognition by IRCC | Yes | Yes |
| Scoring Scale | 0–699 points | 0–699 points |
Which Exam is Easier: TEF Canada or TCF Canada ?
- TCF Canada is often seen as easier for beginners, especially because writing tasks are shorter and less complex.
- TEF Canada is more suitable for advanced learners who are comfortable writing structured essays and handling challenging listening tasks.
Which Exam Should You Choose?
- If you are a beginner → Choose TCF Canada (simpler tasks).
- If you are an intermediate or advanced learner → Choose TEF Canada (better if you can handle structured writing).
- If you want faster exam slots → TEF Canada usually offers more dates.
- If you’re confident in your speaking → Either exam works equally well.
TEF Canada vs TCF Canada for CRS Points
Both exams are accepted by IRCC, and both can give you up to 74 extra CRS points. What matters is your score level, not the exam you choose.
👉 That means your decision should be based on which format suits your skills.
How to Decide Quickly : TEF Canada Vs TCF Canada
- Take a mock test for both formats.
- Evaluate your strengths (writing vs speaking).
- Check availability of test centers near you.
- Select the exam that feels more natural.
📌 Check latest exam dates and centers in India here:
👉 TEF-TCF Exam Dates, Centers & How to Register in India — 2025 Schedule
Final Verdict
When comparing TEF Canada vs TCF Canada, the right choice depends on your French proficiency, learning style, and comfort with the exam format. Both are equally recognized by IRCC, and both can help you achieve the required CLB 7+ score to boost your Express Entry profile.
👉 Still confused? At FrenchCoaching.in, we provide personalized guidance to help you choose the right exam and prepare with confidence.