Last updated: 24 juin 2026
TEF vs TCF Canada: Which French Exam Should You Take in 2026?
TEF vs TCF Canada: Which French Exam Should You Take in 2026?
If you're applying for Canadian immigration through Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or citizenship, you need an approved French language test result. Canada accepts two tests: the TEF Canada and the TCF Canada. Both are valid, both prove your French proficiency, and both produce an NCLC score.
So which one should you take?
This guide provides a detailed, section-by-section comparison to help you make the most strategic choice.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
Section-by-Section Breakdown
Listening (Compréhension Orale — CO)
TEF: 60 questions in 40 minutes. Divided into 4 parts with increasing difficulty. You hear audio recordings and answer multiple-choice questions. The sheer number of questions means speed is critical.
TCF: 39 questions in ~35 minutes. Also progressive difficulty. Fewer questions but similar time pressure.
Verdict: The TEF has more questions to answer, which can feel more stressful. However, having more questions also means that a few wrong answers have less impact on your overall score. If you have strong listening skills and good speed, the TEF is slightly more forgiving.
Reading (Compréhension Ecrite — CE)
Which Exam is "Easier"?
Neither exam is objectively easier. However, there are strategic considerations:
How to Choose: 5 Decision Factors
- Check local availability first. Some cities have more TEF centres, others more TCF centres. Don't assume both are equally available near you.
- Take a practice test for BOTH. Use PrepMyFrench to take a diagnostic for both formats and see which one feels more natural.
- Consider the Speaking format carefully. This is the biggest differentiator. If you're comfortable asking structured questions (TEF Section A), go TEF. If you're better at monologues (TCF Task 3), go TCF.
- Talk to your immigration consultant. If you're working with a lawyer or RCIC, ask if they have a preference based on processing times or regional acceptance.
- Think about retakes. If you might need to retake, consider registering for BOTH exams (TEF and TCF) a few weeks apart. IRCC accepts the highest score from either.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does IRCC prefer TEF or TCF?
No. IRCC does not prefer one over the other. Both produce NCLC scores and are treated identically in CRS calculations.
Q2: Can I combine TEF and TCF scores?
No. You must submit scores from a single exam session. You cannot mix your TEF Listening score with your TCF Speaking score.
Q3: Can I take both exams?
Yes! Many strategic candidates take both and submit whichever result is higher. IRCC accepts the most favorable result.
Q4: Which is better for weak speakers?
Sources and Further Reading
- IRCC: Approved Language Tests
- Le Francais des Affaires: TEF Canada Details
- France Education International: TCF Canada Details
Prepare Smarter, Not Harder
Whichever exam you choose, structured practice is the key to scoring NCLC 7+. PrepMyFrench.com offers dedicated practice modules for both TEF and TCF Canada, complete with AI-graded speaking and writing simulators.