CEFR Levels and Language Proficiency Tests

French Language Proficiency Levels A1-C2

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard used to describe language ability. It's used worldwide to define language proficiency in terms of six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. These levels are used for assessing learners' progress in any language.

  • Basic User
  • A1 (Beginner): Can understand and use very basic phrases.
  • A2 (Elementary): Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance.
  • Independent User
  • B1 (Intermediate): Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters.
  • B2 (Upper Intermediate): Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics.
  • Proficient User
  • C1 (Advanced): Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning.
  • C2 (Proficiency): Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.
  • Each level describes what a learner is supposed to be able to do in reading, listening, speaking and writing.

Official French Language Exams & Certifications

  • DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) Levels: A1 → B2. ​
  • Why take it? For studies, jobs, and international recognition.
  • Results: 1–2 Months
    Validity: Lifetime
  • DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française)
    Levels: C1 → C2.
  • Why take it? For university admission (master’s/PhD) or professional goals.
  • Results: 1–2 Months
    Validity: Lifetime
  • TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français)
    Levels: A1 → C2.
  • Why take it? 🇨🇦 Immigration to Canada/Quebec or professional purposes.
  • Results: 2–4 Months
    Validity: 2 Years
  • TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
    Levels: A1 → C2.
  • Why take it? Campus France applications, French nationality, or work.
  • Results: 3–4 Months
    Validity: 2 Years
  • TCF Québec (TCFQ)
    Levels: A1 → C2.
  • Why take it? Specifically for Quebec immigration.
  • Results: 2–3 Weeks
    Validity: 2 Years

Understanding the CEFR

  • A1 (Beginner)
  • A2 (Elementary)
  • B1 (Intermediate)
  • B2 (Upper Intermediate)
  • C1 (Advanced)
  • C2 (Proficiency)