- Each skill scored 0 to 699 (bands differ per skill)
- Reading and Listening: 40 multiple-choice questions each
- Writing 2 tasks (60 min), Speaking 2 tasks (15 min, with an examiner)
TEF vs TCF Canada
Both are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry, and both convert to the same NCLC levels. The only real difference is the format and the scoring scale.
- Reading and Listening /699, Writing and Speaking /20
- Listening 39 questions (35 min), Reading 39 questions (60 min)
- Writing 3 tasks (60 min), Speaking 3 tasks (about 12 min)
The differences that matter
| TEF Canada | TCF Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Reading & Listening scale | 0 to 699 | 0 to 699 |
| Writing & Speaking scale | 0 to 699 | 0 to 20 |
| Speaking tasks | 2 (15 min) | 3 (about 12 min) |
| Accepted by IRCC | ||
| CRS language points | 4 / 5 / 6 per skill from NCLC 7 (up to 28 with English CLB 5+) | |
How to choose
Availability
Check test-centre dates near you. Often the deciding factor.Format comfort
Prefer predictable MCQ (TEF) or the /20 writing and speaking (TCF)?Cost
Fees are similar; confirm the exact price with your centre.Same French either way
The skills are identical, so start the course now and pick the exam later.Frequently asked
Are TEF and TCF both accepted by IRCC?
Yes. Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry and for citizenship. Your CRS points depend on the NCLC level, not on which exam you take.
Which is easier, TEF or TCF?
Neither is clearly easier. TEF Canada scores each skill 0 to 699 (the bands differ per skill); TCF Canada scores reading and listening /699 and writing and speaking /20. Choose on format preference and test availability.