The DELF A1 exam is the entry-level French proficiency test for beginners. It assesses basic communication skills — understanding simple phrases, introducing yourself, and handling everyday situations. The exam is divided into four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each section carries 25 marks, for a total of 100. You need at least 50/100 overall and a minimum of 5/25 in each section to pass. Below is the exact breakdown.
DELF A1 Section List
1. Listening Comprehension (Compréhension de l’oral)
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Number of questions: 3–4 exercises (around 10–15 questions total)
- Marking: 25 marks
- What you do: Listen to short recordings (announcements, directions, simple conversations) and answer multiple-choice or matching questions. Each recording is played twice.
2. Reading Comprehension (Compréhension des écrits)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Number of questions: 4–5 exercises (around 10–15 questions)
- Marking: 25 marks
- What you do: Read short texts — signs, postcards, forms, simple articles — and answer true/false or multiple-choice questions.
3. Written Expression (Production écrite)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Number of tasks: 2 tasks
- Marking: 25 marks
- What you do: Fill out a form with personal details (name, nationality, address) and write a short message of 40–50 words (e.g., postcard, invitation, or email).
4. Speaking Expression (Production orale)
- Duration: 5–7 minutes (plus 10 minutes of preparation)
- Number of tasks: 3 parts
- Marking: 25 marks
- What you do:
- Part 1: Guided conversation — the examiner asks you simple questions (name, age, where you live).
- Part 2: Information exchange — you ask and answer questions about a simple situation (e.g., ordering food).
- Part 3: Role-play — you describe an everyday object or situation.
Marking Scheme & Pass Criteria
- Total marks: 100 (25 per section)
- Pass mark: 50/100 overall
- Section minimum: 5/25 in each of the four sections
- Result: You receive a certificate valid for life. No partial pass — if you fail one section, you must retake the entire exam.
Key Notes for Indian Candidates
- The exam is offered in multiple sessions per year (typically February, May, July, November). Verify exact dates on the official CIEP or local Alliance Française website.
- Fees vary by centre. As of early 2026, DELF A1 fees in India range roughly ₹3,500–₹5,500. Always confirm with your test centre.
- The speaking test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner. No group component.
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How to Prepare for DELF A1
- Focus on vocabulary: greetings, numbers, days, months, family, food, directions.
- Practice listening to slow, clear French — use DELF A1 sample audio files.
- Write short messages daily: postcards, short emails, or simple descriptions.
- Speak aloud: describe your room, your morning routine, or practice asking for help.
- Use mock tests to simulate real exam timing and pressure.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the listening section practice: The audio is played only twice. Train to catch key words.
- Writing too much in the written task: You only need 40–50 words. Longer answers risk errors.
- Memorising scripts for speaking: Examiners will ask follow-ups. Be natural, not robotic.
- Ignoring the 5/25 minimum: You can score 50 overall but fail if one section is below 5.
Where to next?
- Take a free DELF A1 mock test to check your current level.
- Browse DELF A1 preparation packs with full-length practice exams.
- Read our DELF A1 vocabulary guide for essential word lists.