Master TEF exam scoring with our in-depth guide! Learn how CEFR levels, CLB equivalencies, and Canadian immigration points work. Discover study tips and benchmarks for Express Entry success. Boost your score today!

The Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF) is a gateway for millions of candidates worldwide seeking opportunities in Francophone countries, Canadian immigration, or academic programs. However, understanding TEF scoring can feel like deciphering a code. What’s a “good” score? How do your results translate to Canadian immigration points or university admissions? In this guide, we break down TEF scoring, explain its connection to the CEFR and CLB frameworks, and provide actionable tips to help you achieve your target results.

The TEF evaluates four skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. Each module is scored separately and mapped to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark).

The TEF uses standardized tables to convert raw scores into CEFR levels (A1 to C2) and CLB levels (1 to 12). For example:

• Listening:
  • 100–203 points = CLB 1–4 (CEFR A1–A2)
  • 204–270 points = CLB 5–7 (CEFR B1–B2)
  • 271–360 points = CLB 8–12 (CEFR C1–C2)
• Reading:
  • 60–150 points = CLB 1–4 (CEFR A1–A2)
  • 151–225 points = CLB 5–7 (CEFR B1–B2)
  • 226–300 points = CLB 8–12 (CEFR C1–C2)
  • 
    

(Note: Speaking/Writing follow similar breakdowns but with higher maximum scores.)

• Who It Affects: Beginners or those unfamiliar with French.
• Limitations:
  • Not accepted for immigration or academic programs.
  • Indicates basic vocabulary and simple sentence comprehension.
• Example:

• CLB 3 / A1)
• Reading: 90 points (CLB 2 / A1)

• Who It Affects: Intermediate learners.
• Implications:
  • Minimum for Québec Immigration: CLB 5 required for most economic streams.
  • French Citizenship: B1 (CLB 5) in speaking/listening.
  • Express Entry: CLB 7 grants 15–25 CRS points.
• Example:

• Listening: 240 points (CLB 7 / B2)
• Reading: 200 points (CLB 6 / B1)

• Who It Affects: Advanced or fluent speakers.
• Benefits:
  • Express Entry: CLB 7+ in all skills grants 50 bonus points (critical for competitive profiles).
  • Academic Programs: Eligibility for French universities (e.g., Sorbonne).
  • Career Edge: Jobs in diplomacy, translation, or international NGOs.
• Example:
  • Speaking: 400 points (CLB 10 / C1)
  • Writing: 420 points (CLB 11 / C2)

Canada’s Express Entry and Québec programs prioritize French proficiency. Here’s how TEF scores align with their requirements:

• CLB 7 (B2) in all skills: 25–50 additional points.
• CLB 7 + English (CLB 4): Maximum 50 points.
• Example: A candidate with CLB 9 French and CLB 8 English gains 50 points, significantly boosting their rank.

• Minimum CLB 5 (B1): Required for programs like the Québec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).

Higher Scores = More Points: Québec’s grid awards up to 16 points for C1/C2 French.

Many candidates score higher in passive skills (Listening/Reading) but struggle with active skills (Speaking/Writing). Fix this by:

• Practicing timed essays and mock interviews.

Using apps like Speaky or hiring a tutor.

A CLB 7 in Listening requires 249 points, but only 206 points in Reading. Always check conversion tables for your target CLB.

• Reading: 60 minutes for 50 questions.

Writing: 60 minutes for 2 tasks (e.g., essay + letter).
Tip: Simulate exam conditions during practice.

• Watch French news (TV5Monde) or podcasts (InnerFrench).

Practice with TEF audio samples (e.g., Réussir le TEF).

• Record yourself answering TEF-style questions (e.g., “Describe your hometown”).

Use feedback platforms like italki or Preply.

• Master formal/informal letter formats.

Learn connectors like cependant (however) or par conséquent (therefore).

• Read French newspapers (Le Monde) or novels.
• Focus on skimming for main ideas and scanning for details.

• Validity: Tef Scores expire after 2 years.

Retake Strategy:

Here’s a breakdown of low, good, and very good TEF grades with realistic examples and explanations for each category, aligned with CEFR and CLB equivalencies:

These scores reflect basic proficiency and are insufficient for immigration or academic programs.

• Can understand simple phrases (e.g., "Bonjour," "Où est la gare?").
• Struggles with full conversations or complex texts.
• Not accepted for immigration or university admissions.

• Can handle routine interactions (e.g., ordering food).
• Writing lags behind (basic sentences with errors).
• Still below thresholds for Québec immigration (CLB 5 required).

• Listening/Reading at A2, but Speaking is A1 (halting speech, limited vocabulary).
• Writing shows basic grammar mistakes.

These scores meet minimum requirements for immigration (e.g., Québec) or citizenship.

• Understands main points in conversations about work/school.
• Speaks with pauses but can handle everyday topics.
• Eligible: Québec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).

• Can discuss abstract topics (e.g., environmental issues).
• Writes structured emails/essays with minor errors.
• Eligible: 25–50 CRS points for Express Entry.

These scores are advanced and maximize opportunities for immigration, academia, or careers

• Understands complex texts (e.g., academic journals).
• Speaks fluently with nuanced opinions.
• Eligible: Top-tier CRS points (50) for Express Entry.

• Near-native fluency in Speaking/Writing.
• Ideal for roles in diplomacy, translation, or academia

• Mastery of French in all skills.
• Eligible for the highest CRS points and competitive Francophone jobs

• Low Grades (A1–A2): Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and practice tests.
• Good Grades (B1–B2): Target CLB 7 for Express Entry or Québec’s CLB 5 minimum.
• Very Good Grades (C1–C2): Aim for CLB 9+ to maximize immigration points or academic/career opportunities.

For a personalized study plan, use official TEF practice materials and track your progress against these benchmarks! 😊

Whether you’re targeting CLB 5 for Québec or CLB 10 for a dream job, understanding TEF scoring is the first step to success. Use this guide to benchmark your progress, avoid common mistakes, and create a study plan tailored to your goals.

Final Tip: Download official TEF practice materials from France Éducation International and track your scores monthly!

Check out our [Free TEF Study Planner] or join our [TEF Preparation Webinar] for personalized coaching!