Top 3 French Tests for Canadian Immigration [2025-2026 Guide]

Meta Description: Discover the official French tests accepted for Canadian immigration, including TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Learn how to use your scores to boost your CRS points and explore French-speaking immigration pathways. Slug: french-tests-canadian-immigration

TL;DR The only French language tests accepted for all Canadian immigration programs are the Test d'évaluation de français (TEF Canada) and the Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada). A strong score can add up to 50 points to your Express Entry profile and is mandatory for programs like the Francophone Mobility Work Permit. According to IRCC’s official language testing page, you must take a designated test and submit your results with your application.

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What French Tests Are Accepted for Canadian Immigration?

You must take either the TEF Canada or the TCF Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) only accepts results from these two specifically designated tests to prove your French language ability for programs like Express Entry, the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, and various Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams. Your test results are valid for two years from the date you took the test.

• TEF Canada (Test d'évaluation de français): Managed by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Paris Île-de-France). It assesses skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
• TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français): Managed by France Éducation International. Like the TEF, it evaluates all four language abilities.
• Key Fact: You cannot submit results from general French tests like the DELF or DALF for federal economic immigration. You must take the "Canada" version of the test.

How Do French Test Scores Boost My CRS Points?

Strong French scores can significantly increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the Express Entry pool. According to IRCC’s official Express Entry points grid, you can earn points in several ways:

• Core French Skills: Points for your first official language (if French is your stronger language) and second official language.
• Bilingual Bonus: You can earn up to 50 additional points if you have strong skills in both English and French (CLB 5 or higher in one and CLB 7 or higher in the other).
• French Proficiency Bonus: For candidates with French as their first official language and a score of CLB 7 or higher, there is a specific points bonus.

To see exactly how your potential French (and English) scores translate into CRS points, use a precise tool like Evola’s free CRS Calculator. It instantly calculates your total score based on the latest IRCC points structure, helping you identify if pursuing French testing is a strategic move for your profile.

What is the Minimum French Score Required to Immigrate?

The minimum score depends entirely on the specific immigration program you are applying for. There is no single federal minimum, but each pathway sets its own requirements.

• Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program): You need a minimum of CLB 7 (which is NCLC 7 for French) in all four abilities to be eligible. This is equivalent to a TEF Canada score of approximately 310-348 for speaking and 249-279 for writing.
• Francophone Mobility Work Permit: This permit is for French-speaking workers destined outside Quebec. It requires a minimum French level of CLB 5 (NCLC 5) in speaking and listening.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces have streams targeting French speakers. For example, Ontario’s French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream requires a minimum of CLB 7 in French and CLB 6 in English.
• Quebec Immigration: Quebec uses its own selection system and language benchmarks. For the Regular Skilled Worker Program, you need to demonstrate proficiency according to Quebec’s échelle des niveaux de compétence. You can check the latest requirements on the official Quebec immigration website{:target="_blank"}.

Understanding your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level is crucial. If you have a European test score (like TEF/TCF), you can easily convert it to its CLB equivalent using Evola’s CLB Converter tool.

How Do I Prepare for and Book a French Test?

Preparation and booking require a proactive approach, as test dates can fill up quickly. Start by visiting the official websites of the test providers to find authorized test centres in your country.

1. Choose Your Test: Decide between TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Review sample tests on their official sites to see which format suits you better.
2. Find a Test Centre: Use the centre locators on the TEF Canada website{:target="_blank"} or the TCF Canada website{:target="_blank"}.
3. Register and Pay: Book your test date directly with the centre. Fees vary by country and centre.
4. Prepare Thoroughly: Use official preparation materials, consider a language course, and practice all four components consistently. Many test centres also offer preparation workshops.

For a strategic overview of how a French test fits into your entire immigration plan, consider using Evola’s Immigration Success Predictor. It analyzes your full profile—including language scores, education, and work experience—against current immigration trends to give you a realistic assessment of your chances and recommended next steps.

Can I Use French Scores for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program?

Yes, French proficiency is a critical and mandatory component of the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP). Quebec selects candidates based on a points grid where French ability carries significant weight.

• Points for French: You can earn points for both oral and written comprehension and expression. Higher proficiency yields more points, which are essential for reaching the pass mark.
• Accepted Tests: Quebec accepts TEF, TEF Canada, TCF, TCF Canada, and the TEFAQ for immigration purposes. It’s vital to confirm the specific tests and required scores on the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) website{:target="_blank"}.
• Combination with English: While French is paramount, demonstrating English ability can also add valuable points to your QSWP application.

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Mastering French is more than just learning a language for Canada—it’s a powerful strategic key that unlocks exclusive immigration pathways and maximizes your points. By choosing the right test, preparing effectively, and understanding how your scores integrate into your chosen program, you turn language skill into a decisive advantage. Ready to build a personalized strategy that leverages your French ability? Start your journey with a free, comprehensive assessment at Evola AI.