What Is My French Level?

Discover your exact French proficiency level with our comprehensive visual guide to CEFR, DELF, DALF, TCF, and international certifications.

🎯 CEFR Framework Overview

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) is the international standard for measuring language proficiency.

FB
A1
A2
B1
B2
C1
C2

📊 Detailed Level Breakdown

FB
False Beginner
Previously studied but forgotten
You have studied French before but forgot most of it. You recognize some words and structures but cannot actively use them.
  • Recognize familiar French words
  • Remember basic grammar concepts vaguely
  • Understand your previous learning experience
  • Need structured review to reactivate knowledge
A1
Beginner
First steps in French
Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at satisfaction of needs of a concrete type.
  • Introduce yourself and others
  • Ask basic questions about personal details
  • Interact in simple conversations
  • Understand slow, clear speech
A2
Elementary
Building foundations
Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance.
  • Communicate in routine tasks
  • Describe background and immediate environment
  • Express immediate needs
  • Handle simple, direct exchanges
B1
Intermediate
The critical transition
Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. This is where most students struggle!
  • Handle most situations while traveling
  • Produce simple connected text
  • Describe experiences and events
  • Give reasons and explanations
B2
Upper Intermediate
Confident communication
Can understand the main ideas of complex text and interact with native speakers with fluency and spontaneity.
  • Interact with native speakers fluently
  • Understand complex texts
  • Express viewpoints on topical issues
  • Write clear, detailed text
C1
Advanced
Near-native proficiency
Can understand a wide range of demanding texts and recognize implicit meaning. Express themselves fluently.
  • Use language flexibly and effectively
  • Understand demanding texts
  • Express ideas fluently and spontaneously
  • Produce clear, well-structured texts
C2
Proficient
Native-like mastery
Can understand virtually everything heard or read and express themselves very fluently and precisely.
  • Understand virtually everything
  • Express themselves very fluently
  • Summarize information from various sources
  • Reconstruct arguments coherently

📈 Skills Development Progression

Speaking & Listening Skills

Study Time Required

🏆 DELF & DALF Certifications

Official French proficiency diplomas recognized worldwide. Choose the right certification for your needs.

🎓
DELF Prim
Ages 8-12 | Levels A1.1, A1, A2
  • Designed for young learners
  • Fun, game-based assessments
  • Shorter exam duration
  • Focus on basic communication
  • Perfect introduction to certification
    • 🎯
    DELF Junior
    Ages 12-17 | Levels A1, A2, B1, B2
  • Adapted for teenagers
  • School-friendly topics
  • Same validity as adult DELF
  • University admission requirement
  • Boosts academic applications
    • 💼
    DELF Tout Public
    Adults | Levels A1, A2, B1, B2
  • Most common DELF version
  • Adult-oriented topics
  • Professional recognition
  • Immigration requirements
  • Lifetime validity
    • 🏢
    DELF Pro
    Professional | Levels A1, A2, B1, B2
  • Workplace-focused content
  • Business communication skills
  • Career advancement tool
  • International mobility
  • Corporate recognition
    • 🎓
    DELF Scolaire
    School students | Levels A1, A2, B1, B2
  • Integrated into school curriculum
  • Academic context topics
  • Same diploma as Tout Public
  • Educational system support
  • Student-friendly scheduling
    • 👑
    DALF
    Advanced | Levels C1, C2
  • Advanced proficiency certification
  • University entrance qualification
  • Exemption from language tests
  • Highest level of recognition
  • Research and academic careers

    • 🌍 Other French Certifications

    🇫🇷
    TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français)
    All levels | Quick assessment
  • Computer-based adaptive test
  • Results in 15 days
  • Immigration and citizenship
  • University applications
  • Professional mobility
    • 🇺🇸
    AP French
    American Advanced Placement | ~B2 level
  • US high school program
  • College credit opportunity
  • Cultural competency focus
  • Literature and arts emphasis
  • University admission boost
    • 🏫
    TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français)
    All levels | Canadian immigration
  • Canadian immigration requirement
  • Express Entry system
  • Quebec selection
  • Academic and professional use
  • Internationally recognized
    • 🎯
    DFP (Diplôme de Français Professionnel)
    Professional French | Specialized fields
  • Sector-specific French
  • Business, medical, legal, tourism
  • Professional credibility
  • Career specialization
  • Industry recognition

    • ⚖️ Certification Level Comparison

    🚀 Your Learning Journey

    Visualize your progress and see what's ahead at each level.

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