Not sure which French language exam you need?
Get connected to the right language schools and exam centres for your level and goals.
How Sylum works for language exams
We help you understand what applies to your situation.
Which exam you actually need
How to prepare for it
Where you can take it
Then we connect you with relevant language schools and certified test centres that match your needs. So you can move forward with clarity and focus on passing your exam.
Why getting it right matters
Your French certificate is often required for:
- Residence permits
- Naturalization
- Work or studies in France
Choosing the wrong exam - or preparing the wrong way - can slow things down. Requirements can change, and delays can cost you months. Getting it right early helps you avoid repeating the process.
Choose a level test
Each level corresponds to a specific immigration procedure. Choose the level required for your goal.
Our free online test evaluates your reading, listening, and writing skills in under 5 minutes. Get an instant assessment of your French level - no registration required.
- Aligned with CEFR standards used by French authorities
- Instant results with a personalised skill breakdown
- Know exactly which official exam to prepare for
What changed in 2026
France's 2024 immigration law introduced stricter integration requirements, effective January 1, 2026. There are now two new requirements for first-time multi-year permit, 10-year card, and naturalization applicants:
Mandatory language certificate
You must provide an official language certificate - attending classes alone is no longer sufficient. Required levels:
- A2 - for a multi-year residence permit (carte de séjour pluriannuelle)
- B1 - for a 10-year residence card (carte de résident)
- B2 - for naturalization (raised from B1 as of January 1, 2026)
Mandatory civic exam (Examen Civique)
A new digital civic exam is required for all first-time multi-year permit, 10-year card, and naturalization applicants. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions on French history, values, and civic responsibilities, and requires an 80% pass mark (32/40). It is taken on a tablet, similar to a driving theory test. An official study guide is provided by the Interior Ministry.
Exemptions apply in certain cases, including disability, French schooling, or long-term legal residence. Contact your Préfecture to confirm whether you qualify.
Recognised French language exams
Understanding which French exam you need is an important step if you are planning to live, work, or apply for citizenship in France.
Sylum connects you with language schools and exam centres offering preparation and access to recognised exams such as DELF, DALF, TCF and TEF.
TCF IRN (Test de connaissance du français - Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité)
For immigration purposes, you must take the specific TCF IRN version - not the general public TCF. The TCF IRN is offered by France Éducation International and is designed specifically for residence permit and naturalization applications.
It is accepted for:
- Multi-year residence permit applications (A2 required)
- 10-year residence card (B1 required)
- Naturalization (B2 required as of January 1, 2026)
Important: TCF results are valid for 2 years only. Plan accordingly if your application may be delayed.
Also accepted for university applications (TCF DAP version for higher education admissions).
TEF IRN (Test d'évaluation de français - Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité)
For immigration purposes, you must take the specific TEF IRN version - not the general public TEF. The TEF IRN is issued by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Paris Île-de-France) and is recognised by French authorities.
It is accepted for:
- Multi-year residence permit applications (A2 required)
- 10-year residence card (B1 required)
- Naturalization (B2 required as of January 1, 2026)
Important: TEF results are valid for 2 years only. The DELF is often preferred if you want a lifetime diploma.
Through Sylum, you are connected with a TEF IRN exam centre suited to your level and location.
DELF / DALF (Diplôme d'études en langue française / Diplôme approfondi de langue française)
The DELF and DALF are official diplomas issued by France Éducation International under the authority of the French Ministry of National Education. Unlike the TCF and TEF, they are diplomas valid for life - a major advantage if you want to permanently secure your certified level.
They are accepted for:
- Multi-year residence permit applications (DELF A2)
- 10-year residence card (DELF B1)
- Naturalization (DELF B2 required as of January 1, 2026)
Key advantage: the DELF and DALF never expire. Once obtained, your diploma stays valid for life.
Also recognised for higher education, entry into the French-speaking job market, and any administrative process in a Francophone country.
Which exam should you choose?
DELF, DALF, TCF IRN, TEF IRN - all are recognised for immigration, but the right choice depends on your situation:
- Your goal: residence permit, 10-year card, citizenship, university, or work
- Your timeline: TCF/TEF are valid for 2 years; DELF never expires
- Your current level and availability near you
This is where many people get stuck - choosing an exam that doesn't match their level or the specific immigration requirement.
To make this easier, you can quickly check your current French level and see where you stand.
This gives you a clearer idea of which test and level fit your situation before you move forward.
Work with the right test centres
Not all test centres and preparation courses are the same. We connect you with providers that offer recognised certifications, structured preparation, and clear next steps.
So you can focus on passing your exam - not figuring everything out.
What you get
Clear guidance from the start
Tailored direction based on your situation and goal.
Relevant language schools and test centres
Matched to your needs and location.
A straightforward path to your exam
No guesswork - just clear next steps.
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