Is TCF Easier Than TEF? The Truth About Canada’s French Exams (And How to Actually Pass Them)

If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, chances are you’ve already run into these two intimidating acronyms: TCF (Test de connaissance du français) and TEF (Test d’évaluation de français).

And maybe you’re secretly asking yourself:“Is TCF easier than TEF?”

Good question. You’re not alone—thousands of future newcomers to Canada type this into Google every year, hoping for a clear answer. Spoiler: it’s a little like asking if skiing is easier than snowboarding. Both will get you down the mountain. Both can also land you flat on your face if you don’t prepare.

In this article, we’ll dig deep into the differences between TCF and TEF, uncover which test might feel easier for you, and—most importantly—map out a clear plan to get from grand débutant (total beginner) to the B2 or C1 level you’ll likely need for Canadian immigration. Along the way, we’ll sprinkle in a bit of humor (because crying over nasal vowels isn’t a study strategy).

Why Canada Wants You to Take TCF or TEF

Canada loves bilingualism, but French isn’t just a bonus—it can seriously boost your immigration points in Express Entry or other pathways. The higher your French level, the more points you collect.

Immigration authorities accept two French tests:

• TEF Canada – designed by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris (yes, the same people who grade business professionals).

• TCF Canada – designed by France Éducation International (more “academic” in vibe).

Both are official, both are recognized, and both will test your ability to read, write, listen, and speak French.

Is TCF Easier Than TEF? Let’s Compare

Here’s where most people get confused. Let’s break it down category by category:

Feature	TEF Canada	TCF Canada	Which Feels Easier?
Format	Computer-based only	Computer-based only	Tie
Sections	Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking	Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking	Tie
Scoring	0–699 points per section (aligned to CEFR A1–C2)	100–699 points per section (aligned to CEFR A1–C2)	Same
Style	More business/professional contexts	More academic/general contexts	Depends on your background
Speaking	Structured interview with examiner	Structured interview with examiner	Both nerve-wracking
Perceived Difficulty	Some say questions feel more “tricky”	Some say questions feel more “straightforward”	Slight advantage: TCF

So is the TCF actually easier? Technically, no. Both tests measure the same skills, follow the same CEFR levels, and are equally recognized by Canada.

But here’s the catch: many students feel that TCF questions are a bit more straightforward, while TEF can be trickier with more “trap” answers. If you’re used to academic French (from school, university, or textbooks), TCF might feel easier. If you’re more at ease with professional French and practical scenarios, TEF might feel natural.

The real truth? Neither is “easy.” Passing depends less on the test itself and more on how well you prepare.

How Hard Is It to Reach the Level Canada Wants?

Canada’s immigration system rewards you most if you score CLB 7 or higher (that’s around B2 on the CEFR scale).

Here’s the rough timeline most learners need to go from beginner to that level:

• A0 → A2 (Beginner to Survival French): 150–200 hours

• A2 → B1 (Independent User): 200–250 hours

• B1 → B2 (Upper-Intermediate): 250–300 hours

• B2 → C1 (Advanced, the “wow” level): 300+ hours

Total: 600–800 hours of structured study.

And yes, that sounds huge. But if you break it down:

• 10 hours a week → You could reach B2 in about 18 months.

• 20 hours a week (intensive) → Around 9 months.

The good news? With the right practice methods (not just watching Netflix with French subtitles and hoping for the best), it’s very doable.

Step-by-Step Plan: From Beginner to Passing TCF/TEF

1. Survival Stage (A0–A2)

Focus: basic vocabulary, pronunciation, and daily conversation. Tools: Duolingo or Babbel are fine at this stage, but don’t stop there. Get into group classes where you speak out loud.

Tip: Practice French sounds early—especially the dreaded “R.” Fixing pronunciation later is like unlearning bad dance moves. Check the article on How to learn by myself.

2. Building Stage (A2–B1)

Focus: grammar foundations (tenses, agreement, sentence structure). Tools: A structured textbook (Alter Ego+, Saison, or Édito), plus conversation groups.

Tip: Start listening daily to French podcasts (slow news, YouTube explainers). You want your brain to get used to French rhythms.

3. Climbing Stage (B1–B2)

Focus: fluency, writing essays, understanding fast speech. Tools: TEF/TCF preparation books, timed practice exams, one-on-one tutoring.

Tip: At this stage, join a dedicated TEF/TCF practice group. Group discussions mirror the speaking exam and push you to think quickly.

4. Polishing Stage (B2–C1)

Focus: refining argumentation, advanced vocabulary, exam strategy. Tools: Mock exams under timed conditions, personalized feedback from a tutor.

Tip: Don’t just “know” French—train specifically for the test format. Many lose points not because of bad French but because they misunderstand the task.

The Psychological Game: Test Anxiety Is Real

Even advanced students sometimes bomb the test because of nerves. Both TEF and TCF involve:

• Speaking to a stranger examiner while your brain screams “Oh no, I forgot the word for ‘neighborhood.’”

• Writing essays with time pressure (no, you can’t Google synonyms).

Best way to handle this?

• Simulate the exam environment. Record yourself, time yourself, review yourself (yes, cringe, but effective).

Practice in groups. When you’ve debated “Should pineapple be allowed on pizza?” in French ten times, explaining your opinion on immigration policy in the exam feels easier.

So, Which Test Should You Take?

• If you’re academically inclined → TCF might feel easier.

• If you’re used to practical/professional contexts → TEF might feel more natural.

• If your testing center only offers one → Stop worrying and prepare for that one.

At the end of the day, success comes from preparation, not from picking the “easy” test.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Look for Easy, Look for Effective

If you’ve been Googling “Is TCF easier than TEF?”, the honest answer is: No, they’re equally challenging. But one may feel easier depending on your background.

Instead of wasting hours comparing, invest that time in practice. Find a structured plan, join a group of learners, and—if possible—work with a tutor who knows the ins and outs of the exam.

Because let’s face it: Canada won’t ask you, “Did you take the easy test?” They’ll just want to see your scores.

Action Step for You

If you’re serious about immigration, don’t prepare alone. Join a TEF/TCF practice group or get private coaching. Practicing with others will boost your confidence, help you manage test-day nerves, and save you months of frustration.

The road is long, but with consistent practice, you can go from “Bonjour, je m’appelle…” to “Je suis prêt à immigrer au Canada.”

So, is TCF easier than TEF? No. But passing either one is absolutely possible—with the right preparation plan, and maybe a laugh or two along the way.

Join a TCF or TEF group practice