United States
French Language Proficiency Tests
In addition to our overview of French language proficiency requirements (note: this links to the global Campus France site) for studying in France, here is some basic information to get you started.
First or second year of university study, or school of architecture
If you wish to enroll in the first or second year of university study or in a school of architecture (L1.L2.L3, Master), you have to follow the “request for preliminary admission” or DAP process. Part of this process requires you to demonstrate your level of French proficiency by taking a language test.
- TCF-DAP is the language exam that was specifically designed to be used with the DAP process.
If you have already taken a DELF/DALF or TEF test within the past five years, you do not have to provide a TCF-DAP score.
Where are the TCF-DAP exams offered in the United States?
Exam centers exist across the U.S. Please check this calendar to find out where and when you can take the TCF-DAP. You can also consult the CIEP database.
Important: The TCF DAP exam calendar that is at the bottom of this page.
- Read the list of exemptions for the TCF (note: this links to the global CampusFrance site)
All other programs
When applying to other programs in France, such as Licence 3 (the final year of undergraduate study), or Master’s or Doctoral degree programs, it is important to check with the individual program to see which test they require, as this can vary greatly from program to program.
Some institutions will also accept these tests as supplemental information for your application, even if they are not mandatory.
The following are some of the most common exams accepted for admission. See the websites for specific details.
- TCF-TP is a language test administered by the French Ministry of Education. There are different versions of the TCF depending on the program of study you choose.
- DELF/DALF are diplomas also awarded by the French Ministry of Education for basic (DELF) and advanced (DALF) French speakers. The diplomas are awarded for six different levels that correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
- TEF (website in French only) was developed by the Paris chamber of commerce and industry.
Where are the TCF-TP exams offered in the United States?
Exam centers exist across the U.S. Please check this database to find out where and when you can take the TCF-TP.
- Read the list of exemptions for the TCF (note: this links to the global Campus France site)
For information on where to take the other French language tests – DELF, DALF, or TEF – please consult the relevant websites.
Download
More detailed information about the various language tests can be downloaded in the PDF entitled Tests of and Degrees in French as a Foreign Language.
