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Comparison

TCF Canada vs TEF Canada: which one to choose?

Both tests are accepted by IRCC and lead to the same NCLC levels and CRS points. The real differences are in the writing and speaking sections.
TCF Canada TEF Canada
Listening 39 questions, 35 min 40 questions, 40 min
Reading 39 questions, 60 min 40 questions, 60 min
Writing 3 short tasks (up to 180 words) 2 sections (80+ and 200+ words)
Speaking 3 tasks, 12 min 2 sections, 15 min
Retake delay 20 days depends on the centre
Validity 2 years 2 years

How to choose

  • Prefer shorter writing pieces? The TCF's tasks are shorter; the TEF requires a 200-word argument.
  • Comfortable persuading someone on the phone? The TEF's 10-minute speaking section B rewards it.
  • Need a date soon? Availability near you often matters more than format.

Whichever you choose, aim for NCLC 7 in all four skills. Check your scores with the NCLC calculator.

Related

TCF Canada: format, scoring and NCLC equivalency

The TCF Canada explained in English: 39 listening and 39 reading questions, 3 writing and 3 speaking tasks, timing, scoring out of 699 and 20, and the NCLC table used by IRCC.

TEF Canada: format and NCLC equivalency

The TEF Canada explained in English: 40 reading and 40 listening questions, writing sections A and B, speaking sections A and B, timing and the NCLC table IRCC uses.

NCLC 7: the TCF and TEF Canada scores you need

NCLC 7 is the key French level for Express Entry. Here are the exact TCF Canada and TEF Canada scores required per skill, and what NCLC 7 gives you in CRS points.

Préparation indépendante, non affiliée à France Éducation international, à la CCI Paris Île-de-France ni à IRCC. Barèmes vérifiés sur les sources officielles le 12/10/2026 ; vérifie toujours les exigences à jour sur canada.ca.