The TEF Canada test: sections, scores and NCLC levels
TEF Canada is CCI Paris Île-de-France’s French test, recognised by IRCC since 2002. For immigration it has four tests taken on the same day; each is scored out of 699 since 11 December 2023, then converted to an NCLC level with a chart specific to each skill.
Updated October 19, 2026
The four tests (immigration)
| Test | Content | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 40 multiple-choice questions | 60 minutes |
| Listening | 40 multiple-choice questions | 40 minutes |
| Writing | Section A: continue a news story (80 words minimum, 25 min) · Section B: opinion letter (200 words minimum, 35 min) | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | Section A: get information (5 min) · Section B: argue to convince (10 min) | 15 minutes |
In multiple-choice tests a correct answer is worth 1 point; a wrong or missing answer is worth 0. For citizenship, only listening and speaking are required.
How writing and speaking are assessed
Productions are assessed by specialist graders with a standardised grid that gives a performance level on the CEFR scale. In writing, CCI looks at the quality and effectiveness of the text (fit to the situation, organisation, clarity, ability to develop and nuance) and command of the language (vocabulary, syntax, spelling). Details and samples: the writing test, section A and section B.
Scores and NCLC levels
Since 11 December 2023 each test is scored out of 699. For NCLC 7: 434–461 in reading and listening, 428–471 in writing, 456–493 in speaking. The results document also shows an “old score equivalent” (NCLC 7 in writing: 310–348): that is the figure IRCC asks for in the Express Entry profile. All charts plus a calculator: NCLC score chart.
Preparing
- A free 4-week plan for all four tests.
- A timed writing mock test (sections A and B).
- Speaking guides: section A and section B, with a recorder to get your answer corrected.
- Vocabulary by topic for writing and speaking.
- Our original prompts and common writing mistakes.
- Still choosing between TCF and TEF? TCF vs TEF compared.
TCF Canada Coach is an independent preparation tool with no link to CCI Paris Île-de-France or IRCC. To book the test, contact an approved centre.
TEF Canada FAQ
What is the TEF Canada?
CCI Paris Île-de-France’s Test d’évaluation de français, in the version IRCC has recognised since 2002. For immigration it has four tests; for citizenship, two (listening and speaking).
Do I have to take all four tests on the same day?
Yes: according to CCI Paris Île-de-France, all tests must be taken on the same day for the results to be recognised by the Canadian authorities.
How is the TEF Canada scored?
Since 11 December 2023 each test gets a score out of 699, converted to NCLC with a chart specific to each skill. For an Express Entry profile, IRCC asks for the « Équivalence ancien score » column of the results document.
How long are TEF Canada results valid?
Two years from the date the results document is issued.
Where can I take the TEF Canada?
At a centre approved by CCI Paris Île-de-France: the Le français des affaires website has a centre finder. Dates and fees depend on the centre.