Did you know that there are more than 80 million native French speakers. It is also the second language for more than 190 million people. Majority of the French speakers are found in the African continent beside France. Because of its significant history with the French Empire’s colonization, the French language is an official language in 29 countries, making it one of the global languages.
Learning French would open a lot of doors for visiting, traveling, studying or working in any of those countries. If you learned French or want to learn, then you must find credible language proficiency certificates to make your learning fruitful
Check out this list of the popular French language proficiency tests.
1. DILF
Best option for making through the beginner’s level French is the DILF- Diplôme Initial de Langue Française. It is issued as the Diploma by the French ministries of national education and higher education. This test tests the elementary level, known as A1.1 of the CEFRL. It has four sections, including listening, reading, oral and speaking. However, the drawback of this test is that you can only take this test in the French territory.
2. TEF
TEF, is Test d’Evaluation de Français. It is the single test where your score can determine your points for French language proficiency. This test started in 1998 and has been an acknowledged test for French learners. The test measures listening, reading, writing and speaking abilities. There are 5 different types of the examination and it is valid for only 2 years.
3. TCF
TCF is called Test de Connaissance du Français. This test is a placement test for the non-native speakers of French. If you want to migrate to France, then this test functions as a proficiency test. It is administered on behalf of the French Ministry of Education. Currently, there are 5 different kinds of this test and can be used for academic and professional purposes.
Check out these Ways to Improve French Pronunciation.
4. TELC
To gauge the French language competency, the European Language Certificates or TELC is an effective test. It not only applies for French, but currently it is internationally examined in 11 different languages. There are 4 different levels in French. They are- A1, A2, B1, and B2. You can choose the area of taking the exam.
5. DELF
The Diplôme d’Ẹtudes en Langue Française- DELF is a renowned and credible test. It is the official diplocal for the French language as a foreign language.it is widely recognized according to the standards of CEFR level. This test does not have grades, rather it is either pass or fail.
6. DALF
The Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française- DALF is counted as a diploma. There are two types of this test, C1 and C2 which examines your levels of French language. Not just language comprehension, this test’s advanced level also tests French logic within the contextualized scenarios. Before taking the test, one needs to immerse themself in French culture.
7. AP French
The Advanced Placement French Language and Culture, also known as AP French. It is a college-level French proficiency test where the final exam is similar to the content of a US high school French course. Its equivalent to the college level is French 301. The syllabus also is confined within the course materials covered.
8. IB French
The International Baccalaureat or IB is a developed program which tests not just the French language proficiency, but also tests the critical thinking skills of the students. With questions of complex problems, the test measures the writing and spoken French. The test also counts your understanding of French culture and counts your reactions.
9. GCSE French
The French GCSE exam is called the General Certificate of Secondary Education. It is taken in Britain by students usually aged 16. Following different exam boards, this test measures 4 sections of language skills including writing, reading, speaking and listening. The questions in the exam focus on identity, culture, global areas and other themes.
10. DCL – Le Diplôme de Compétences en Langue
Le Diplôme de Compétences en Langue or DCL is a diploma for French. This test gears up the adults to use the French language in their professional work and labor market. The exam covers different scenarios through which the candidate’s communication skills are examined. The test scenarios resemble real life professional encounters.
It is normal to get confused with the many proficiency tests out there. Through this list of the French language proficiency tests, you can figure out which would be the best for you!
