Nous proposons plusieurs examens TCF, adaptés à vos besoins : fiche produit
- TCF IRN – on paper
- TCF IRN – on computer
- TCF tout public – general public
- TCF Canada
What is the TCF?
TCF: definition
The TCF (Test de connaissance du français) measures your skills in listening comprehension, reading comprehension, writing, and speaking.
It is intended for anyone wishing to certify their French level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2.
The TCF is an official certification, valid for 2 years, used for administrative, academic, and professional purposes.
Target audience
The TCF is aimed at the following audiences:
- People applying for a residence card
- Candidates for French nationality
- Students wanting to evaluate their French level
- Students wishing to join French universities or schools
- Professionals on international mobility for work
- Candidates for immigration to Canada or Quebec
What is the TCF used for?
The TCF allows you to:
- Certify your French level
- Enroll in a French university
- Validate an administrative request (residence, nationality)
- Prepare an immigration application to Canada
- Meet an employer’s requirements
- Certify your skills for a professional project
Difference between TCF IRN and TCF Canada
TCF IRN
The TCF IRN (Integration, Residence, Nationality) is intended for administrative procedures in France. It takes place on paper or computer at the Alliance Française de Lyon.
The TCF IRN includes four mandatory tests:
- Collective test (1 h 25)
- Listening comprehension: 20 min
- Reading comprehension: 35 min
- Writing: 30 min
- Individual test (10 min)
TCF Canada
The TCF Canada is recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the MIFI. It is used for immigration, citizenship, or settlement in Canada and Quebec.
The TCF Canada includes four mandatory tests:
- Collective test (2 h 35)
- Listening comprehension: 35 min
- Reading comprehension: 60 min
- Writing: 60 min
- Individual test (12 min)
Objectives by level
The TCF is for everyone, including beginner learners, and allows you to plan your learning path in a structured way. Each CEFR level corresponds to specific skills:
- A1: Basic communication. Learn more
- A2: Simple and direct interaction on familiar topics. Learn more
- B1: Expressing complex opinions. Learn more
- B2: Fluent and reasoned expression. Learn more
- C1: Clear, structured, and nuanced expression. Learn more
- C2: Full mastery and native-like fluency
How to prepare for TCF exams?
Prepare your TCF by combining:
- Exercises, official tasks and practice exams. Learn more
- Preparation courses for taking the TCF. Learn more
- Practice speaking and writing
- Regular practice: podcasts, short articles, structured text writing, etc.
How are the exams conducted?
All TCF exams are taken in person at the Alliance Française de Lyon exam center.
Modalities:
- Paper or computer-based sessions, depending on the version
- Duration between 1 h 35 and 2 h 50 depending on the test
- Speaking test scheduled by the Alliance Française de Lyon
What are the TCF tests?
Depending on the test version, you may be evaluated on:
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Writing
- Speaking
- Grammar and language structure (TCF general public)
Each test is graded according to an official FEI scale (A1 to C2).
TCF score infographic
Validity of TCF
The TCF certificate is valid for 2 years. After this period, it is no longer accepted for administrative procedures. To apply again, you must retake the test.
How to register for TCF exams in Lyon?
- Choose your TCF version
- Check the available dates
- Prepare your supporting documents:
- Identity card or passport (with photo)
- Proceed with payment
- Receive your admission notice by email at least one week before the exam
Other information:
- Results are sent by email within 2 to 3 weeks
- Rescheduling and refund policy A partial refund or rescheduling to a later session may be granted: – upon presentation of a medical, professional, or transportation certificate (strike or delay) – certificate written in French and sent no later than the day after the exams to tests_examens@aflyon.org – subject to available places for rescheduling
Why certify your French level with the Alliance Française?
Since its creation in 1984, the Alliance Française de Lyon has taught the French language and promoted cultural diversity.
We are an exam center accredited by France Éducation International, located in downtown Lyon, with exam-appropriate rooms.
Our examiners are qualified and trained according to the official DELF and DALF standards.
In 2025, over 2800 candidates trusted the Alliance Française de Lyon to take a French exam.
