French exams for Canada Β· CLB 6
TEF vs TCF Canada: which French exam should you take?
Both exams are accepted by IRCC and both map to the same Canadian Language Benchmarks. Here's how they actually differ β format, scoring, difficulty and cost β so you can choose with confidence.
The short answer
For immigration, it does not matter which exam you take β both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are accepted, and both convert to the same CLB level via the official IRCC equivalency chart. CLB 6 is CLB 6 either way. The decision comes down to format preference, test-centre availability, and price.
Side by side
| TCF Canada | TEF Canada | |
| Provider | France Γducation international | CCI Paris Γle-de-France |
| Listening | Multiple choice | Multiple choice |
| Reading | Multiple choice | Multiple choice |
| Speaking | Recorded interview Β· 3 tasks | Interview Β· 2 tasks |
| Writing | 3 tasks | 2 tasks |
| Accepted by IRCC | Yes | Yes |
Exam structures are periodically updated β confirm the current task counts and timing on the official provider site before you book.
CLB 6 thresholds on each exam
| Skill | TCF Canada | TEF Canada |
| Listening | 400β457 | 248β262 |
| Reading | 400β457 | 207β232 |
| Speaking | Level 10β11 | 310β348 |
| Writing | Level 10β11 | 271β309 |
You need CLB 6 in each skill separately. Always verify against the current IRCC chart.
How to choose
- Pick on availability first. Book whichever exam has a seat at a centre near you within your timeline.
- Try both formats in practice. Some people prefer the TCF's predictable MCQ rhythm; others like the TEF's flow. A few practice sessions will tell you.
- The prep is 90% the same. Whichever you pick, you train the same four skills to the same CLB 6 ceiling β so start studying now and decide the exam later.
Works for both exams
Prep for CLB 6 β TEF or TCF
The same free course prepares you for both exams: listening, reading, speaking and writing to the CLB 6 ceiling, with native Canadian French audio and a full mock test. No signup.
Open the free courseβFrequently asked questions
Is TEF or TCF easier for Canada?
Neither is officially easier β both map to the same CLB levels. The TCF's multiple-choice format feels more predictable to many; the TEF can feel faster. Choose on availability and which format suits you.
Do TEF and TCF give the same CLB score?
Yes. IRCC's equivalency chart maps both exams to the same Canadian Language Benchmarks, so CLB 6 is CLB 6 either way.
Which exam is accepted for Express Entry?
Both. French points are calculated from your CLB level, not the exam name.
Related: How to score CLB 6 Β· Free TCF Canada mock test Β· Learn French for Express Entry