TEF IRN
Understand your results

The tests are assessed on the scale of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (levels A1 to C2). Level <A1 is awarded to candidates who do not demonstrate that they have achieved level A1.

Here you will find the expected skills for each CEFR level and for each test item. 

Reading and listening comprehension tests

The reading and listening comprehension tests are in the form of multiple choice questionnaires. Only one answer is possible.

The scale is as follows:
Correct answer = + 1 point
No answer / Wrong answer = 0 points

The total number of correct answers does not constitute the final score. This total is converted into a calibrated score that takes into account the differences in difficulty of the questions making up the test.

Written and oral expression tests

The written expression test consists of writing two everyday texts. It is assessed by two independent, trained and experienced assessors.

The oral expression test consists of two role-plays based on real-life situations. It is assessed by two independent examiners: the test leader and a second examiner, on the basis of the recording of the test.

Oral and written expression tests are assessed using standardized evaluation grids that include a set of criteria: communication skills, vocabulary, grammar, organization, fluency, etc.

The final score takes all these criteria into account. The results of these assessments are also converted into a calibrated score.

The TEF IRN evaluates up to level B1 of the CEFR. (Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

• Level A1 is achieved if you score 100 or more in each test.
• Level A2 is achieved if you score 200 or more on 3 tests and 167 or more on the lowest-scoring test.
  ► Level A2 is required to obtain a 10-year residence permit.

• Level B1 is achieved if you score 300 or more on 3 tests and 267 or more on the lowest-scoring test.
  ► Level B1 is required for French naturalization applications.

The certificate of results also reflects your level of competence in each of the tests, according to the following rules:

You can submit an appeal within a maximum of 30 days from the date of issue of the results certificate.

You can find all the information you need on our website at this address.

Please note: your appeal request will only be considered in the event of an anomaly or serious malfunction during your test. It is therefore essential to inform your supervisor of your situation on the day of the test.

Le français des affaires and its partner centers do their utmost to ensure that the TEF tests are taken under the best possible conditions and with fairness between candidates.

The assessment procedure and criteria are the same for all candidates. Recordings of oral tests and written productions are always anonymous to our assessors (only the candidate’s number appears).

Did you notice a serious anomaly or malfunction during your test? In this case, we invite you to submit an appeal.