Head-to-head
TCF Canada vs TEF Canada
Both count for Express Entry. Compare format, timing, score scales, NCLC tables and how fast you can retake.
Compare TCF & TEFWhich test is right for you
Which French test is right for you?
TCF Canada and TEF Canada are the two French tests IRCC accepts. DELF and DALF are lifelong diplomas that Québec also accepts. Compare them at a glance, then go deeper on the matchup that matters to you.
- TCF and TEF: accepted by IRCC
- DELF and DALF: lifelong diplomas
- All four: accepted by Québec
Side-by-side comparison
How TCF Canada, TEF Canada, and DELF/DALF compare on format, scoring, and acceptance.
| TCF Canada | TEF Canada | DELF · DALF | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Run by | France Éducation international | CCI Paris Île-de-France | France Éducation international |
| Format | 4 sections, all compulsory; Speaking face to face | 4 sections in one session for immigration; Speaking face to face | One exam per level, A1 to C2; pass or fail |
| Scoring | 100–699 (Listening, Reading) and 0–20 (Writing, Speaking), converted to NCLC | 0–699 per skill; IRCC converts the old-score equivalent (0–300 to 0–450) to NCLC | Out of 100; pass at 50 with at least 5/25 per skill |
| Price | About CA$390–410, set by the centre (2026) | About CA$390 for the full exam | CA$195 (A1/A2) to CA$385 (C1/C2), by level |
| Wait before a retake | 20 days | Generally 30 days | No fixed wait: book your centre's next session |
| Results | Within 15 working days (10 when multiple choice is on computer) | Varies by centre: about 1–8 weeks | About one month; the diploma takes a few months more |
| Accepted by | IRCC (Express Entry) and Québec (PSTQ) | IRCC (Express Entry) and Québec (PSTQ) | Québec (PSTQ); not IRCC Express Entry |
| Best for | Federal immigration, with results in about 15 working days and 20-day retakes | Federal immigration, if a TEF date or format suits you better | A lifelong diploma for study, work or Québec |
Prices and times vary by centre and can change. Sources: France Éducation international via TCF Monitor; Alliance Française Edmonton (TEF, DELF/DALF), 2026. Check with your centre before you book.
Go deeper on a head-to-head
Pick the matchup that matters to you for a full side-by-side breakdown.
Head-to-head
TCF Canada vs DELF and DALF
A test for immigration or a lifelong diploma. See who accepts which, and when each one makes sense.
Compare TCF & DELF/DALFChosen TCF Canada? Start today.
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