French Test CanadaPractice test

For Express Entry candidates

A French test plan for Express Entry candidates

You already know French can add points. This page turns that into a plan: what level to aim for, which test, and when to sit it so your results are still valid when you apply.

Your target

  • NCLC 7 in all four abilities is the key level: it’s the Federal Skilled Worker minimum, unlocks the 25 or 50 French bonus points, and makes you eligible for French-language proficiency draws.
  • NCLC 5 meets the Canadian Experience Class minimum for TEER 2 or 3 jobs and is the floor for second-language points.
  • One weak ability can hold you back: the bonus and the category both need NCLC 7 in all four.

Score converter

Your TEF Canada scores as NCLC levels

Enter the “Équivalence ancien score” column from your TEF Canada results, not the score out of 699: that’s the one IRCC uses for Express Entry.

From IRCC’s official equivalency table. Your official result is the one on your test report.

Your timeline

  1. 1

    Check your level

    Do a timed reading and listening set to see where you stand.

  2. 2

    Pick a test and a centre

    TEF Canada or TCF Canada: see TEF vs TCF, then book at an approved centre.

  3. 3

    Leave room for a retake

    TEF Canada needs 20 days between sittings, TCF Canada 30. Book early enough to sit again if one ability comes in short.

  4. 4

    Watch the 2-year clock

    Results must be less than 2 years old when you create your profile and when you submit your PR application. If they’ll expire before you can apply, IRCC says you can retest, apply first, or decline the invitation and stay in the pool.

  5. 5

    Enter the right scores

    For TEF Canada, use the “Équivalence ancien score” column in your profile, not the score out of 699.

Questions people ask

+What French level should an Express Entry candidate aim for?

NCLC 7 in all four abilities. It meets the Federal Skilled Worker minimum, earns the French bonus points, and qualifies you for French-language proficiency draws.

+What if my results expire while I’m in the pool?

IRCC says you can retest, apply before they expire, or decline the invitation and remain in the pool. Applications with expired results are refused.

Sources

Updated October 26, 2026. Not affiliated with CCI Paris Île-de-France (TEF), France Éducation international (TCF) or IRCC.

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