Test d'Evaluation de Francais
TEF
A French language proficiency test accepted by IRCC for immigration applications.
What is TEF?
The Test d'Evaluation de Francais (TEF) is a French language proficiency test administered by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The TEF Canada version is accepted by IRCC for demonstrating French language ability in immigration applications. It assesses four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Why It Matters for Newcomers
French proficiency can significantly boost your CRS score. Even if English is your primary language, adding French test results can add up to 50 additional CRS points. Bilingual candidates are highly valued in the Canadian immigration system, reflecting Canada's official bilingualism.
How Scoring Works
TEF scores are converted to NCLC (Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens) levels, which are the French equivalent of CLB. IRCC provides conversion tables on their website. You need the TEF Canada version specifically, as other TEF variants are not accepted for immigration.
Quick Tip
If you have even moderate French skills, taking the TEF can be worthwhile for the extra CRS points. A NCLC 7 in all four skills as your second official language can add a meaningful boost to your profile, potentially pushing you above the ITA cut-off.