Everything you need to know about TEF Canada, TCF Canada, CLB scores, CRS points, and exam preparation strategies for immigration success.
Book a Free AssessmentTEF Canada is an IRCC-approved French language exam used to convert scores into CLB levels for Express Entry. Achieving CLB 7 or CLB 9 can add up to 50 CRS points and significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA.
TCF Canada is an IRCC-approved French proficiency test assessing listening, speaking, reading, and writing for immigration. Scores are converted into CLB benchmarks that directly impact your CRS ranking.
Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada are accepted for Express Entry, but they differ in scoring scale, structure, and test format. Choosing the right exam depends on your strengths and timeline.
French can add up to 50 additional CRS points under Express Entry, and even more when combined with strong English scores. CLB 7 is the minimum threshold to unlock bonus points.
CLB 7 requires meeting specific IRCC benchmark scores across all four TEF Canada modules. This level unlocks additional CRS points under Express Entry.
CLB 9 requires higher TEF Canada benchmark scores and provides maximum CRS benefit for French. This level is often decisive in competitive Express Entry draws.
Neither exam is universally easier; success depends on preparation strategy and individual strengths. Examiner-led mock testing identifies which format better aligns with your profile.
From A1 beginner level, TEF Canada preparation typically takes 6 months in a 1-on-1 exam prep program or 8–9 months in structured group training. Consistency and examiner-based correction are critical.
Yes, depending on your starting CEFR level and study availability. Private coaching can accelerate progress compared to standard group timelines.
A 3–6 month plan should include daily vocabulary development, weekly CLB-aligned mock exams, and structured speaking simulations based on official scoring grids.
TEF Canada tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking, each converted into CLB levels using IRCC equivalency charts. Understanding the scoring grid is essential for targeting CLB 7 or CLB 9.
TCF Canada results are converted into CLB benchmarks using IRCC tables, directly impacting CRS scores. Each module contributes independently to your immigration profile.
Both TEF Canada and TCF Canada can be retaken to improve CLB levels and CRS ranking. Strategic retesting can significantly impact Express Entry competitiveness.
Most TEF failures are due to scoring strategy rather than language ability. Our official examiners analyze your previous score report and identify what prevented you from reaching CLB 7 or CLB 9.
Repeated speaking failures usually stem from misunderstanding official evaluation criteria. Examiner-led simulations replicate real scoring standards and eliminate guesswork.
Not necessarily. Many candidates miss CLB 7 or CLB 9 by small margins and only require targeted correction. Our team reviews your detailed score breakdown and builds a focused improvement plan.
Yes. Students with previous A2, B1, or B2 exposure often regain proficiency faster with structured preparation. Our free assessment identifies your retained CEFR level and builds a reactivation plan aligned with Express Entry goals.
Your foundation remains recoverable with structured TEF Canada or TCF Canada preparation. Examiner-led diagnostics determine whether group training or private coaching is most efficient.
Regular French courses teach language generally; our program is structured around official TEF/TCF scoring grids and Express Entry CLB benchmarks. You learn directly from official examiners who understand exactly how the test is evaluated.
The right format depends on your starting level, timeline, and CRS objective. Private exam prep typically takes 6 months from beginner level, while structured group programs run 8–9 months.
Book a free assessment with our official examiners and get a personalized strategy for your Express Entry goals.
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Phone: (250) 882-4044
Email: info@gateway-academy.ca
Address #1: 250 - 997 Seymour St, Vancouver BC
Address #2: Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2
