France is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and is home to about 443,500 international students as of 2024–2025. That is quite a big number, and one of the main reasons behind it is that France offers great educational opportunities and scholarships to students from all around the world. It has some of the world’s best institutions, famous for their research and development. So, if you are looking to study abroad for your bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degree, France is worth considering.
French is the official language of France, and English can also be useful, especially in international and English-taught programs. To study in one of the breathtaking cities of France, each international student should check the language requirements of their chosen institution and program. In this article, we will take you through the main French and English language tests that may be needed in France for international students like you!
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in France
In France, language requirements depend on the language of instruction. French-taught programs commonly ask for proof of French proficiency, while English-taught programs may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or another English test. Some programs taught in English may not require French for admission, but learning basic French is still helpful for daily life.
French Language Tests for International Students
There are various types of French language tests that non-French students can take. The DELF and DALF are official French-language diplomas, while the TEF is an international French test issued by CCI Paris Île-de-France and recognized for several academic and administrative purposes.
1. DELF or DALF
DELF stands for Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française, and DALF stands for Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française. These language tests in France differ by level of proficiency in the French language and collectively cover six levels:
- DELF A1: Breakthrough or beginner
- DELF A2: Waystage or elementary
- DELF B1: Threshold or intermediate
- DELF B2: Vantage or upper-intermediate
- DALF C1: Effective Operational Proficiency or advanced
- DALF C2: Mastery or proficiency
DALF C1 and C2 certify the highest CEFR levels covered by the DELF/DALF system. You can select the level of difficulty based on your skills in the language, and the exams assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each skill generally carries 25 points, making the test 100 points in total. DELF/DALF exams are offered through accredited centers around the world, so you can select the one that suits you best.
The passing score for these tests is 50/100, and candidates generally need at least 5/25 in each skill. Once you have taken the DELF/DALF, the diploma is valid for life. Universities in France set program-specific language requirements; for example, Sorbonne University generally requires B2 or higher French for degree study, with C1 required in Medicine. Before applying to institutions such as Sorbonne University, check the exact language level required for your chosen program.
2. TEF – Test d’Evaluation de Français
TEF stands for Test d’Évaluation de Français. It is issued by CCI Paris Île-de-France, and results are valid for two years. Depending on your objective, the TEF can include one to five modular tests: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, vocabulary and syntax, written expression, and oral expression. It is used for objectives such as studies in France, integration, residence, nationality procedures in France, and immigration or citizenship procedures in Canada or Québec.
- TEF Études en France
- TEF IRN – Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité
- TEF Canada
- TEF Québec, also called TEFAQ
For international students applying for first-year undergraduate studies through the DAP procedure, TEF Études en France may be relevant. The test evaluates written and oral French skills for foreign students applying for first-year university enrollment and includes four compulsory tests: written comprehension, oral comprehension, written expression, and vocabulary and syntax. The TEF is recognized within the DAP procedure, but universities and programs can set their own requirements, so always confirm with the institution, such as Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris or Université Paris-Saclay.
TEF results are reported with scores and CEFR levels. For TEF Études en France, a score of at least 400/699 in the required written tests certifies a sufficient level of proficiency for first-year university enrollment, corresponding to B2. The common TEF score bands are A1 (100–199), A2 (200–299), B1 (300–399), B2 (400–499), C1 (500–599), and C2 (600–699). There is no single “passing score” for all TEF versions; the required score depends on your purpose and institution.
English Language Tests For International Students
For international students applying to English-taught programs, a valid English proficiency test may be required. Requirements vary by university and program, and students who completed previous education in English may sometimes be exempt, so check the official admissions page of your chosen program.
For English tests needed in France, the following are commonly used:
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
IELTS is a well-known English proficiency test that comprises four sections: speaking, reading, writing, and listening. IELTS Academic is widely accepted by institutions worldwide, including many programs in France, but minimum band scores vary by university and program. IELTS uses a 0–9 band scale, so students should check the specific program requirement rather than assuming any score above 5 or 6 is sufficient.
IELTS is run by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English. IELTS results are generally recommended as valid for two years, although accepting organizations can set their own policies. From mid-2026, IELTS is phasing out paper-based testing; IELTS tests are moving to computer delivery, with a Writing on Paper option in selected markets.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
TOEFL is another widely accepted English proficiency test. The TOEFL iBT measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It is offered by ETS at authorized test centers and as the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, which is taken on a computer at home and monitored by a live human proctor.
As of January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT score reports use a new 1–6 scale in 0.5-point increments. During a two-year transition period after January 2026, students also receive a comparable overall score on the 0–120 scale. TOEFL iBT scores are valid for two years. There is no universal “good” TOEFL score; each institution sets its own minimum requirement.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
Duolingo is an online English proficiency test. It is accepted by many institutions worldwide, but it is not accepted everywhere. If you plan on taking the test, check beforehand whether the university and program you are applying to accept it. In France, for example, ICN Business School lists Duolingo scores among its English language requirements, and Audencia Business School accepts Duolingo for several programs.
If you are not sure about your university, you can go over to this website and search whether your university accepts Duolingo. The Duolingo English Test score is reported on a scale of 10–160, and results are valid for two years. A score around 100–120 may meet some program requirements, but the required score depends on the university and degree level.
Now you know the main language tests that may be required for international students in French universities or related administrative procedures. Requirements can change, so check official university, test-provider, and Campus France pages before registering for a test or submitting your application. Good luck!
We hope this article on language tests needed in France for international students is informative and helpful. You can also find more information on European universities and scholarship opportunities on the Study in France and Available Programs for International Students.
