Navigating TCF Canada & TEF Canada for Canadian Permanent Residency
- English Bridge
- Sep 5
- 3 min read

Canada’s Express Entry system and other immigration pathways require proof of language proficiency—French as one of the official languages. The government accepts two IRCC-approved tests: TCF Canada and TEF Canada.
Why These Tests Matter
Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Express Entry and other economic immigration classes.
The test results are valid for two years from the date of issuance—which means they must be current when you submit your immigration profile or application.
Exam Structure: What to Expect
TEF Canada
Reading comprehension: 60 minutes – ~40 multiple-choice questions
Listening comprehension: 40 minutes – ~40 multiple-choice questions
Written expression: 60 minutes – 2 writing tasks
Spoken expression: ~15 minutes – 2 speaking tasks
Uses a 699-point scale aligned to CEFR and Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) .
TCF Canada
Listening comprehension: 35 minutes – 39 multiple-choice questions
Reading comprehension: 60 minutes – 39 multiple-choice questions
Writing: 60 minutes – 3 tasks
Speaking: ~12 minutes – 3 tasks (including prep time)
Administered by France Éducation International; aligned with CEFR and CLB .
Choosing Between TEF Canada and TCF Canada
Accepted equally by IRCC for permanent residency and Express Entry—choose based on your preferences, not recognition.
Format differences:
TEF's multiple-choice questions may reuse passages for efficiency, while TCF requires new passages for each question—potentially increasing reading load.
Some candidates find TCF more approachable due to shorter listening and reading sections and less grammar testing.
Benchmarks: CLB 7 is Your Target
CLB 7, equivalent to B2 level in the CEFR, is the minimum for gaining max CRS points in Express Entry and unlocking other benefits like eligibility for Francophone streams.
Example TEF Canada CLB 7 score ranges (per skill):
Listening: 249–279
Reading: 207–232
Speaking: 310–348
Writing: 310–348
TCF Canada scoring aligns with similar CLB thresholds .
Registration & Results
TEF Canada: Register through one of over 500 official test centers globally; results typically delivered in about two weeks.
TCF Canada: Organized by France Éducation International; candidates must contact a certified local center for schedule, format (paper or computer), registration, and costs. Results are issued within ~15 working days.
Always check test validity before applying—expired results will result in refusal of your PR application.
Real-World Insights
A candid Reddit user's experience highlights the process:
“You can’t just apply for permanent residency... you create a profile in the Express Entry pool once you’ve done your language tests and your ECA.”
“Your test options are TEF or TCF Canada. … make sure you have enough in savings to meet the funds requirement.”
This underscores the importance of preparing before creating your Express Entry profile.
Preparation Tips
Simulate the format—practice under timed conditions for all four skills.
Use official sample materials, resources from TV5Monde or RFI to build immersion and familiarity with exam style.
Focus holistically on listening, reading, writing, and speaking—not just grammar.
Review scoring tables for your target CLB levels to set benchmarks.
Final Thoughts
Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are valid for PR—but choose the one that aligns better with your skills and testing preferences.
Aim for achieving CLB 7 across all four abilities to get the most advantage in the Express Entry system.
Register early and keep test validity timelines in mind.
Practice smartly—use real samples, simulate test conditions, and focus all-around language improvement.
Feel free to ask if you’d like help with preparing for any section, finding test centers nearby, or interpreting your results!
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