Proving French Language Ability - Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF/DALF)

The DELF (Diplôme d'études en langue française) and the DALF (Diplôme approfondi de langue française) are French language examinations that consist of six diplomas. These diplomas are awarded by the French Ministry of Education and certify a candidate’s level of French proficiency.

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What is the difference between the DELF and DALF?

The DELF examinations are taken at four individual levels: A1 and A2 (Beginner), B1 and B2 (Intermediate). The DALF examinations are taken at two individual levels C1 and C2 (Advanced). Each examination is independent, meaning a candidate can register for the examination at whichever level they choose. Each examination evaluates French language abilities in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, although only the Listening and Speaking modules are required for Quebec immigration.

What does the DELF/DALF exam consist of?

Listening ability

Level	Test	Duration
A1	Listen to recordings and answer questions about everyday life.	20 minutes total
A2	Listen to recordings and answer questions about everyday life.	25 minutes total
B1	Listen to recordings and answer questions about everyday life.	25 minutes total
B2	Listen to recordings and answer questions on various topics.	30 minutes total
C1	Listen to recordings and answer questions on various topics.	40 minutes total

Speaking ability

Level	Test	Duration
A1	Three part test consisting of a guided conversation, exchanging information, and role-play.	5 to 7 minutes of conversation
A2	Three part test consisting of a guided conversation, exchanging information, and role-play.	6 to 8 minutes of conversation
B1	Three part test consisting of a guided conversation, interactive exercise, and expressing an opinion on a document.	15 minutes of conversation
B2	Stating and defending an opinion based on a short document.	20 minutes of conversation
C1	A presentation based on a series of written documents followed by a discussion with the examiner.	30 minutes of conversation

Listening/Speaking abilities

Level

Test

Duration

Consists of three parts:

Write-up the contents of a recording regarding humanities or social studies/science
Personal development based on the problem given in the recording
Debate with the examiners

90 minutes total

How is the DELF/DALF graded according to the Quebec Skilled Worker Program?

Diploma received	DELF A1	DELF A2	DELF B1	DELF B2	DALF C1	DALF C2
Quebec Skilled Worker Language Points for each ability (Listening and Speaking)	1	3	4	6	8	8

Where can I register for the DELF/DALF?

Choose the country of your choice to search for the nearest test centres:

DELF/DALF Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to take the DELF/DALF?

All applicants are required to take a French language test when submitting an application for permanent residency through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program if they are claiming points for language proficiency. Applicants may take the DELF/DALF or another approved French language test.

2. How many points are required to pass the level?

DELF - An applicant must score at least 50 points out of 100 pass the level.
DALF C1 - A minimum of 50 points, in addition to at least 5 points per part is required to pass the level.
DALF C2 - A minimum of 50 points, in addition to at least 10 points per part, is required to pass the level.

3. How much does the DELF/DALF cost?

Testing costs depend on the location where the test is being given. Contact the examination centre for specific prices.

4. How long does the test take?

Depending on the level of the test you are taking, it can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 4 hours.

5. How long does it take to get my results?

In general, it takes 2 to 3 months to receive the results of the DELF/DALF from the date in which you took the examination.

6. If I’m not satisfied with my results, can I take the test again?

You can take the examination as many times you want. However, you cannot take the examinations for a diploma that you already hold, unless you revoke the existing diploma in writing before taking the new examination. If you do not pass the diploma on the second attempt, the first diploma will still remain invalid.

7. How long are the test results valid for?

The DELF/DALF test results are valid for life; however, for Quebec immigration purposes, the exams will only be valid for 2 years from the date in which you took the exam.