Yes. They are the two French tests IRCC approves for Express Entry.
TEF Canada and TCF Canada Preparation in Kolkata: French Classes for Canada PR
TEF Canada and TCF Canada are the two French tests that Canada accepts for Express Entry. A DELF diploma does not replace either of them. We teach the French behind the tests and train you in the paper’s style. Our B1 and B2 courses each run four to six months.
We run French classes in Kolkata from A1 to C2. This page is for people planning Canada PR, study or work who want to know how the two tests work and how to prepare.
LNS does not conduct either test and does not register students for them. You book at an approved centre. We prepare you. Our own internal exam and LNS certificate close the course.
Table of Contents
What are TEF Canada and TCF Canada, in simple words?
Both are French-language tests made for Canadian immigration and citizenship. Each checks four skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing.
TEF Canada is set by CCI Paris Île-de-France. TCF Canada is set by France Éducation international. Your result in either test is converted into an NCLC level, which is Canada’s scale for French.
Does Canada really accept only these two tests?
For Express Entry, yes. According to the IRCC language requirements page, the two approved French tests are TEF Canada and TCF Canada. DELF and DALF are not on that list.
The same page says results must be less than two years old when you complete your profile and again when you apply for permanent residence. Rules can change, so read that page before you book.
Which NCLC level do I need?
It depends on your route. Here is what IRCC’s page said when we checked it on 3 November 2026:
| Programme | French level asked |
|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker | NCLC 7 in all four abilities if French is your first official language; NCLC 5 if it is the second |
| Canadian Experience Class | NCLC 7 for higher-skill job categories (TEER 0 or 1); NCLC 5 for TEER 2 or 3 |
| Federal Skilled Trades | NCLC 5 for speaking and listening; NCLC 4 for reading and writing |
NCLC 7 is roughly the same level as B2. That is why most people targeting Canada plan their French up to B2. We cannot tell you which programme suits you. That is a question for a licensed immigration adviser.
TEF Canada or TCF Canada: which should I take?
Both are accepted. Neither is “easier” as a rule. They are written by different bodies and the question styles differ.
Choose using practical things:
- Which one has seats and dates at a centre you can reach
- Which paper’s style suits you after a mock of each
- Which one a counsellor or your agent recommends for your case
We run mock papers in both styles, so you can compare before you book.
Why is DELF not enough for Canada?
DELF is a lifetime diploma that proves a level. The Canada tests are scored skill by skill and converted to NCLC, and IRCC only reads results from those two tests. A strong DELF B2 helps your French. It does not go into your Express Entry profile.
If you want both, our DELF B2 classes and this preparation share the same B2 teaching base.
How do we prepare you for the test?
- Level check. We place you in the right level before anything else.
- Language first. You reach the French level the test needs. There is no shortcut around that.
- Format training. Timed listening and reading sets in the style of each paper.
- Writing correction. Weekly tasks, marked line by line.
- Speaking practice. Mock interviews with a trainer in the examiner’s role.
- Mock papers. Full-length practice so test day is not a surprise.
We will tell you honestly when you are ready and when you need another month.
How long does it take to get from zero to test-ready?
| Starting point | Typical time to reach B2 at our pace |
|---|---|
| Complete beginner | About 14 to 20 months (A1, A2, B1, B2) |
| A2 completed | About 8 to 12 months |
| B1 completed | 4 to 6 months |
These come from our level plan: A1 and A2 take three to four months each, B1 and B2 take four to six months each. Intensive batches can be shorter. Your own daily practice moves the date more than anything else.
What does it cost?
Our course fee for each French level is on the course fees page. The test fee is separate and goes to the test centre. Ask the centre for the current amount, because it changes.
Where do I book the test?
At an approved centre. The test bodies publish centre lists on their websites. Seats can fill early, so check dates before you plan your timeline backwards from your application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. DELF and DALF are not approved for Express Entry.
IRCC asks for results less than two years old when you complete your profile and when you apply. Check its page before you book.
Most routes ask for NCLC 7, roughly B2. Some trades routes ask less. A licensed immigration adviser can tell you which applies to you.
If you are a beginner, yes. Start with A1. There is no test-only shortcut.
No. You book it yourself at an approved centre. We prepare you.
Yes. Our online batches use the same plan, with live speaking practice and writing correction.
Yes, if you need a higher score. Ask the centre about the rules and any waiting period.
No. Nobody honestly can. We stand behind the teaching, correction and mock practice.
Yes. Start from the level where our placement check puts you.
It can add to your profile, but it is a big time investment. Speak to an adviser about your case before you commit months to it.
Plan your TEF / TCF preparation
Come to a free demo class and bring your target date. We will check your level and tell you how many months you need.
Call 62891 24658 or write to contact@lnsacademy.in. We are at 108, Majumder Para, 1 No Airport Gate, Kolkata 700079.
Full course details are on our French classes in Kolkata page.
We are a language school, not an immigration consultancy. Nothing here is immigration advice.
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