DELF, DALF or TCF: French Exams for University Admission in France
Fee figures: catalogue of 6 October 2026.
French universities teach their bachelor's degrees in French, and they want proof of level from applicants educated in another language. In our catalogue most programmes state B2, and a significant minority, especially selective ones, state C1. Three official exams provide the proof.
DELF and DALF: diplomas for life
DELF and DALF are diplomas of the French Ministry of Education, managed by France Éducation international.
- DELF covers levels A1 to B2. DALF covers C1 and C2.
- You register for one level and take four papers: listening, reading, writing and speaking. You pass with at least half of the total marks and a minimum mark in each paper.
- The diploma never expires.
- Exams are held at approved centres, in France and abroad, on dates set by each centre.
DELF B2 is the standard key to a French university. Holders of DELF B2 or DALF are exempt from any other French test in the admission procedure.
TCF: a test with a score
The TCF (Test de connaissance du français) is a test, not a diploma. Everyone takes the same papers and receives a score placed on the scale from A1 to C2.
- The certificate is valid for two years.
- Compulsory papers are multiple-choice; written and spoken expression are additional papers. For university applications you need the written expression paper as well, so register for the version your procedure requires.
- Results are quick, which helps when a deadline is close.
The TEF, run by the Paris chamber of commerce, works in a similar way and is accepted by many institutions.
Which procedure asks for what
- Non-EU applicants living abroad applying for the first year of a licence go through the preliminary admission request (DAP), in most countries on the Études en France platform. It requires a French test unless you are exempt.
- EU applicants and holders of a French baccalauréat apply on Parcoursup. The programme page states the level expected, and the institution may ask for a certificate.
- Selective programmes and schools set their own level, frequently C1.
Who is exempt
Typically: nationals of countries where French is an official language, students from bilingual French sections, and holders of DELF B2, DALF C1 or C2. The full list is published with the DAP rules each year.
DELF or TCF?
- If you have time and expect to pass B2 comfortably, take DELF B2: it lasts for life and exempts you everywhere.
- If your deadline is near, or you are between B1 and B2, take the TCF: you will always get a result, and quickly.
How demanding is B2?
At B2 you follow a lecture, take notes and write a structured argument. That last skill matters most in France, where exams are essays from the first semester. A course in academic writing is time well spent even after you hold the certificate.
Where to look next
Official sources
- France Éducation international: DELF and DALF
- Campus France: procedures by country
- Parcoursup
Always check current information on the official website of the university before you apply.