What Is the TEF Exam? — Complete Guide to TEF Canada & TEF Québec
If you are planning to immigrate to Canada or Quebec, study in French, or officially prove your French language level, you will almost certainly encounter the TEF exam.
TEF (Test d’évaluation de français) is one of the most widely recognized French proficiency tests in Canada, especially in Quebec and Montreal, where French is the primary official language.
This article explains what the TEF exam is, who it is for, and why it matters for Quebec and Montreal candidates.
What Is the TEF Exam?
The TEF – Test d’évaluation de français is an official French language proficiency test developed and administered by
CCI Paris Île-de-France.
The purpose of the TEF exam is to objectively assess the French language skills of non-native French speakers in real-life communication contexts.
The TEF is internationally recognized and widely used for:
• Canadian immigration
• Quebec immigration (CSQ / PEQ / PSTQ)
• University and college admissions
• Professional and academic French certification
Official Authority Behind the TEF
Unlike private or internal language tests, the TEF is managed under a centralized global system:
• Standardized test design
• Unified scoring system
• Certified examination centers
• Strict exam security and quality control
This ensures that TEF results are valid, reliable, and accepted by Canadian and Quebec government authorities.
Official TEF information:
👉 https://www.lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr/candidat/test-evaluation-francais/
Different Types of TEF Exams
The TEF is not a single exam. Different versions exist depending on your purpose.
TEF Canada – For Federal Immigration
TEF Canada is required for candidates applying through:
• Express Entry
• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
It is officially recognized by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
Official page:
👉 https://www.lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr/candidat/test-evaluation-francais/tef-canada/presentation/
TEF Québec / TEFAQ – For Quebec Immigration
TEF Québec (TEFAQ) is used for Quebec immigration programs such as:
• CSQ (Certificat de sélection du Québec)
• PEQ (Programme de l’expérience québécoise)
• PSTQ and other Quebec selection programs
This version focuses heavily on spoken and written French, reflecting Quebec’s linguistic requirements.
Official page:
👉 https://www.lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr/candidat/test-evaluation-francais/tef-quebec/presentation/
TEF Tout Public – General French Proficiency
This version is used for:
• Academic applications
• Personal language assessment
• Professional certification
What Skills Are Tested in the TEF Exam?
Depending on the version, the TEF exam evaluates the following skills:
• Listening comprehension
• Reading comprehension
• Speaking (oral expression)
• Writing (written expression)
For TEF Canada and TEF Québec, immigration candidates usually take four core modules: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
TEF Scoring System Explained
TEF results are reported using a score + CEFR level system:
• CEFR levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
• Canadian immigration authorities primarily use the CEFR equivalency, not just raw scores
For example:
• B2 = Upper-intermediate French
• C1 = Advanced French
These levels directly impact CRS points, Quebec selection scores, and immigration eligibility.
Why the TEF Exam Is Important in Quebec and Montreal
In Quebec, French is not optional — it is essential.
For candidates living in or applying from Montreal, the TEF exam is often:
• A mandatory requirement for immigration
• A key factor in selection scores
• A decisive advantage compared to English-only profiles
Many candidates search for:
• TEF exam Montreal
• TEF Canada Quebec
• TEF Quebec test center Montreal
• French exam for Quebec immigration
Choosing the right test center and preparation strategy can make a significant difference.
Final Thoughts
The TEF exam is one of the most important French language tests for anyone pursuing Canadian or Quebec immigration, especially for candidates based in Montreal and Quebec.
Understanding the differences between TEF Canada, TEF Québec, and other versions is essential before registering.
If you are planning to take the TEF in Montreal, selecting a certified, well-equipped, and centrally located exam center is just as important as exam preparation.