DALF: definition
The DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) is an international certification that attests to an advanced mastery of French. It assesses the ability to communicate with precision and spontaneity in complex situations related to professional, academic, or social contexts.
Exam objectives
The DALF allows you to:
- Obtain a recognized certification accepted by universities and higher education institutions
- Validate your ability to interact in social, professional, or administrative life
- Enroll in an academic program in France or in a French-speaking country
- Strengthen your personal and professional project
- Demonstrate an advanced level for employment, an international exchange, or an immigration procedure
Who is the DALF for?
The DALF is intended for advanced learners:
- International students
- Professionals in international mobility
- Individuals undertaking a stay in a French-speaking country
- Candidates wishing to obtain an official diploma for academic or professional purposes
Difference between the DELF and the DALF
The DELF and the DALF are two complementary diplomas. The main difference concerns the levels and the target audience.
- The DELF certifies levels A1, A2, B1, and B2.
- The DALF certifies levels C1 and C2, reserved for independent users.
The DALF
The DALF corresponds to the following levels:
- C1: independent users
- C2: proficient users
It assesses the ability to communicate in everyday, social, professional, or academic situations depending on the level.
The DALF
The DALF is used to:
- Enroll in a French or French-speaking university
- Access employment where advanced mastery of French is required
- Complete international administrative procedures requiring a confirmed level
Levels: What is the difference between DALF C1 and C2?
The DALF includes two levels, each with a specific objective:
- DALF C1 – independent user: ability to communicate with precision and spontaneity in complex professional, academic, and social contexts
- DALF C2 – proficient user: ability to master French with precision and fluency in very complex contexts, both written and oral
Important note: it is not mandatory to have the DELF B2 to take the DALF C1 or C2.
How the DALF works: the tests
The DALF C1 includes 4 tests.
Group tests:
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Written production
Individual test:
- Oral production (with preparation time)
|
Level
|
Listening comprehension |
Reading comprehension |
Written production |
Oral production |
| C1 |
40 min |
50 min |
2 h 30 min |
30 min + 60 min of preparation |
The DALF C2 includes 2 tests.
Group test:
- Reading comprehension and written production
Individual test:
- Oral production (with preparation time)
|
Level
|
Group test |
Oral production |
| C2 |
3 h 30 min |
30 min + 1 h 30 min of preparation
|
Possible accommodations for people with disabilities: additional time, adapted formats, material assistance.
Why take the DALF?
Taking the DALF allows you to certify an advanced level of French and access opportunities in academic, professional, and administrative fields. It is particularly useful for candidates wishing to progress in demanding French-speaking contexts.
Academic recognition and validity
The DALF is an official diploma, internationally recognized, essential for:
- Studying in France or in a French-speaking country.
- Entering certain grandes écoles or specialized institutions.
- Participating in advanced academic programs.
Professional recognition
The DALF is a real asset for your career, as it certifies an advanced mastery of French and demonstrates that you are able to communicate effectively with French-speaking teams. It is recognized by employers in France and abroad as solid proof of your language skills.
Validity
The DALF is a lifelong diploma. Unlike some language tests (TCF, TEF) that expire after two years, the DELF does not need to be retaken. It is a long-term asset for your professional, academic, and administrative life.
Why certify your French level with the Alliance Française?
Since its creation in 1984, the Alliance Française de Lyon has been teaching the French language and promoting cultural diversity.
We are an examination center accredited by France Éducation International, located in the city center of Lyon, with exam-adapted rooms.
Our examiners are qualified and trained according to the official DELF and DALF standards.
In 2025, more than 2,800 candidates trusted the Alliance Française de Lyon to take their French exam.
When should you take the DALF in 2026–2027?
DALF C1 DALF C2
How to register for the DALF exam?
- Choose your level
- Check the available dates
- Prepare your supporting documents :
- ID card or passport (with photo)
- Transcript or candidate number if you have already taken the DELF
- Proceed with the payment
- Receive your exam invitation by email one week before the tests
Other information:
- Results are sent by postal mail within 6 weeks
- The official diploma is sent approximately 6 months after the exam
- Postponemnt and refund conditions
A partial refund or postponement to a later session may be granted:
– upon presentation of a medical, professional, or transport-related document (strike or delay)
– document written in French and sent no later than the day after the exams to tests_examens@aflyon.org
– subject to availability for rescheduling
