TCF vs TEF
TCF Canada vs TEF Canada: which French test is easier?
Both the TCF Canada and TEF Canada are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry, PNPs, and citizenship. Neither is officially easier — they test the same French levels in different formats. Here is how they compare, and how to choose.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | TCF Canada | TEF Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted by IRCC | Yes | Yes |
| Writing tasks | 3 tasks · 60 min | 2 tasks · 60 min |
| Scoring scale | 0–699 (comprehension) · 0–20 (expression) | Points per skill, converted to NCLC |
| B2 bonus points | Any B2 earns the full 50 CRS points | Only B2 supérieur earns the 50 points |
| Difficulty curve | Rises gradually · fewer questions | More questions · steadier |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
Which is actually easier?
There is no official difficulty gap — both are calibrated to the same CEFR levels. The one scoring difference that matters for immigration: TEF Canada splits B2 into inférieur and supérieur, and only the superior band gives the full 50 CRS bonus points. TCF Canada has no such split, so any B2 result earns the full bonus. For candidates hovering around B2, that makes TCF the safer bet.
Which should you choose?
Pick TCF Canada if you want a gentler difficulty curve, richer prep resources, and no risk of landing in a B2-inferior tier. Consider TEF Canada if it has more test dates near you or its format suits your style. Either way, the writing section is timed tasks — practicing that format is the fastest way to raise your score.
Frequently asked questions
Is TCF or TEF accepted for Express Entry?
Both are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and Canadian citizenship.
Which test gives more CRS points?
They convert to the same NCLC scale, but TEF splits B2 into two tiers and only the higher one gives the full 50-point French bonus. On TCF, any B2 gives the full bonus.
Can I prepare for both the same way?
Largely yes — the writing skills overlap. The main difference is the number and phrasing of tasks. Écrivance focuses on the TCF Canada task format.