DELF vs CEFR: What’s the difference?

Key takeaways

• CEFR is a six-level reference framework, not an exam. You cannot “take the CEFR.”
• DELF is the official French language diploma issued by France Education International, covering CEFR levels A1 through B2.
• DALF covers C1 and C2, the two advanced levels above the DELF range.
• TCF and TEF are score-based French exams also mapped to CEFR, but they expire after two years. DELF and DALF are permanent diplomas.
• Choosing the right French exam starts with identifying your target CEFR level and your purpose.

This guide gives you a clear breakdown of what CEFR is, how DELF maps onto it, and where other French exams like TCF and TEF fit in.

With over 30,000 tutors across 150+ languages, italki pairs you with French language tutors who specialise in exam preparation. This guide covers what CEFR is, how DELF fits into it, the full comparison of French exams by CEFR level, and how to decide which route makes sense for your goals.

What is the CEFR?

CEFR Level	Label	What It Means
A1	Beginner	Can use basic phrases and introduce yourself
A2	Elementary	Can communicate in simple, routine situations
B1	Intermediate	Can handle most travel situations and everyday topics
B2	Upper-Intermediate	Can interact fluently with native speakers on familiar topics
C1	Advanced	Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously
C2	Mastery	Near-native comprehension and precision

The CEFR is a reference framework used across Europe and internationally. You cannot sit the CEFR. You take an exam that is aligned to the CEFR, and that exam certifies that you have reached a particular level.

Assess your current CEFR level with a French tutor and get a clear exam recommendation matched to your timeline and goals.

What is DELF?

DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) is the official French diploma issued by France Education International, covering levels A1 through B2. DELF is a permanent diploma; it does not expire.

• DELF A1: Basic beginner proficiency
• DELF A2: Elementary proficiency
• DELF B1: Independent user threshold, often required for French citizenship
• DELF B2: Upper-intermediate, required for many university admissions

Work with a French teacher online and determine which DELF level aligns with your career or education goals.

What is DALF?

DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) covers C1 and C2. Like DELF, it is a permanent diploma.

• DALF C1: Required for admission to most French universities for non-native speakers
• DALF C2: The highest level of French proficiency certification

For a comparison of the two exams, see the article on DALF vs DELF.

Start DALF preparation with French teachers who specialize in advanced French and ensure your writing and speaking meet C1 or C2 evaluation standards.

CEFR levels and the French exams that cover them

CEFR Level	Proficiency	French Exam
A1	Beginner	DELF A1 / TCF / TEF
A2	Elementary	DELF A2 / TCF / TEF
B1	Intermediate	DELF B1 / TCF / TEF
B2	Upper-Intermediate	DELF B2 / TCF / TEF
C1	Advanced	DALF C1 / TCF / TEF
C2	Mastery	DALF C2 / TCF / TEF

Each CEFR level can be certified through multiple exam routes. Knowing the differences helps you pick the one that fits your deadline and purpose.

DELF vs TCF vs TEF

Feature	DELF / DALF	TCF	TEF
Type	Diploma for specific level	Score mapped to CEFR range	Score mapped to CEFR range
Expiry	Never (permanent)	2 years	2 years
Levels covered	A1-B2 (DELF) / C1-C2 (DALF)	A1-C2	A1-C2

For immigration to Canada, TCF Canada and TEF Canada are accepted. DELF is generally not used for Canadian immigration. See the guide on TCF vs TEF vs DELF for a broader comparison.

Pick between DELF, TCF, or TEF based on your needs, then get exam-specific prep from online French tutors focused on your chosen test.

How to choose the right French exam

Choose DELF if you want a permanent diploma for French citizenship, undergraduate admissions, or your professional CV. Choose DALF if you are at C1 or C2 level and need to demonstrate advanced academic French. Choose TCF or TEF if you are applying for Canadian immigration or need results quickly.

Understand which exam you need and commit to a realistic prep plan with French tutors on italki. Whether you’re aiming for DELF B1 for citizenship or DALF C1 for university, personalised coaching accelerates your readiness.

With over 15 years of experience connecting learners to qualified teachers, italki has helped candidates in 190+ countries achieve their language learning goals. Book a trial lesson today.

FAQ Does having a DELF diploma mean I officially have a CEFR level?

DELF B1 is widely accepted as evidence of B1 proficiency in French. However, the CEFR itself is a reference framework, not a certification body, so it does not issue any certification directly.

Can I register for DELF B2 without having passed DELF B1?

Yes. Each DELF level is independent. You can register for any level without having taken or passed any lower level.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare for DELF B1 from scratch?

Common estimates suggest around 300-350 hours of study to move from A1 to B1. If you are starting from A2, 100-150 hours of focused preparation is a reasonable benchmark for B1 readiness, though individual results vary.