Overview
This lecture compares the TEF and TCF Canada French proficiency exams, focusing on structure, scoring, and practical considerations for Canadian immigration.
Exam Structure & Modules
- Both TEF and TCF Canada have four modules: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking.
- To qualify for Canadian immigration, you need NCLC (CLB) 7/12 in all four modules.
- Both exams are valid for 2 years.
- Exam fees: TEF Canada costs ~390 CAD; TCF Canada costs ~400 CAD.
- You can retake the exams as many times as needed, with a 30-day wait after receiving results before rebooking.
- You cannot alternate between TEF and TCF within the 30-day period.
- There is no negative marking in either exam.
Scoring Criteria
- TEF Canada:
- Listening/Reading: 434–461/699 for NCLC 7.
- Writing: 428–471/699 for NCLC 7.
- Speaking: 456–493/699 for NCLC 7.
- TCF Canada:
- Listening: 458–502/699 for NCLC 7.
- Reading: 453–498/699 for NCLC 7.
- Writing/Speaking: 10–11/20 for NCLC 7.
- Scoring formats differ but both assess the same proficiency level.
Reading & Listening Comparison
- Reading: Both exams use MCQs (TEF: 40 Q/60 min; TCF: 39 Q/60 min), similar difficulty.
- Listening: TEF (40 Q/40 min) displays written questions during audio; TCF (39 Q/35 min) questions are oral after audio, making TCF more challenging.
Writing Comparison
- TEF Writing: 2 tasks (journalistic article, letter to editor), 60 min total (25 + 35 min).
- TCF Writing: 3 tasks (message, note/article, summary + opinion), 60 min total; flexible timing but more formats, potentially more complex.
Speaking Comparison
- TEF Speaking: 2 dialogue-based tasks (formal and informal conversations), examiner may assist if needed, total ~17 min.
- TCF Speaking: 3 tasks (introduction, Q&A based on scenario, impromptu monologue), more monologue and less examiner support, total ~10 min.
Overall Recommendations
- TEF is generally less complex in writing and speaking due to more familiar formats and examiner assistance.
- TCF is considered more challenging in listening and speaking due to format and structure.
Key Terms & Definitions
- NCLC/CLB 7 — Canadian Language Benchmark level required for immigration.
- MCQ — Multiple Choice Questions.
- Monologue — A long speech by one person, without interaction.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Decide which exam (TEF or TCF Canada) best suits your strengths.
- Prepare specifically for the chosen exam's format.
- Consider enrolling in a structured French learning program.
- Register for the exam and plan your study schedule accordingly.