Full TEF Syllabus Breakdown: What Each Section Tests

The TEF syllabus covers four skills — reading, listening, writing and speaking — set by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP) for Canada Express Entry and Quebec immigration applicants. Each section is scored separately, then used by IRCC and Quebec authorities to assess your French level, so understanding the syllabus structure matters as much as the language itself.

Reading and listening are entirely multiple-choice, tested through administrative documents, news items and everyday conversations. Writing asks for a formal letter and an argumentative essay, while speaking is a face-to-face exam with two timed tasks: obtaining information from the examiner, then persuading them. Because the same core syllabus applies to both TEF Canada and TEF Québec, with only minor differences in scoring thresholds, the study plan below suits either pathway. Confirm current session dates and fees on the official CCIP portal before registering.

TEF Syllabus Overview

The TEF is scored on a scale from 0 to 699, with each section contributing roughly equal weight. The total exam time is about 3 hours. All sections are mandatory for migration purposes.

| Section | Duration | Number of Questions | Approximate Weightage | |---------|----------|---------------------|-----------------------| | Reading Comprehension | 60 min | 40 | 25% | | Listening Comprehension | 40 min | 60 | 25% | | Written Expression | 60 min | 2 tasks | 25% | | Oral Expression | 15 min | 2 tasks | 25% |

Note: Exact weightage can vary slightly by exam session; verify on the official CCIP portal.

Reading Comprehension (Compréhension Écrite)

This section measures your ability to understand written French. You'll see administrative documents, news articles, advertisements, and short narratives.

Question types:

• Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) – choose the correct answer from four options
• True/False/Not Given statements
• Matching headings to paragraphs
• Fill-in-the-blank with provided options

Study tips:

• Read French news sites daily (Le Monde, Le Figaro, France Info). Focus on headlines and first paragraphs.
• Practice skimming: read a text in 2 minutes, then answer questions without re-reading.
• Learn common administrative vocabulary (formulaire, attestation, demande, etc.).
• Use TEF mock tests to get familiar with the MCQ format and time pressure.

Listening Comprehension (Compréhension Orale)

This section tests your ability to understand spoken French in everyday and formal contexts. Audio clips include announcements, conversations, interviews, and short reports.

Question types:

• MCQs based on short audio clips (10–30 seconds)
• Answering questions after longer audio clips (1–2 minutes)
• Identifying speaker's intention, location, or relationship

Study tips:

• Listen to French podcasts (France Culture, RFI) at 1x speed, then gradually increase to 1.25x.
• Practice dictation: write down what you hear in short bursts.
• Focus on understanding the gist, not every word. The exam often tests main ideas.
• Take a free TEF demo mock to find out where you stand: <a href="/demo">Try the demo →</a>

Written Expression (Expression Écrite)

This section has two writing tasks. You'll be evaluated on grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and task completion.

Task 1 (≈150 words): Write a formal letter or email (complaint, request, application). Task 2 (≈200 words): Write an argumentative essay (express opinion, compare, or propose a solution).

Study tips:

• Memorize formal letter openings and closings (Madame, Monsieur, Veuillez agréer...).
• Practice structuring arguments: introduction, two body paragraphs, conclusion.
• Use transition words (cependant, par ailleurs, en conclusion).
• Get your writing corrected by a tutor or use automated tools like BonPatron.

Oral Expression (Expression Orale)

This is a face-to-face interview with an examiner. It lasts about 15 minutes and has two parts.

Task 1 (≈5 min): Introduce yourself and answer personal questions (work, hobbies, family). Task 2 (≈10 min): Role-play a situation (e.g., complaining about a service, convincing someone).

Study tips:

• Record yourself speaking on common topics for 2 minutes daily.
• Practice with a partner or tutor on platforms like iTalki.
• Focus on fluency over perfection. Small grammar mistakes are okay.
• Prepare a 1-minute personal introduction that covers key points.

TEF Canada vs TEF Québec: Syllabus Differences

Both exams follow the same core syllabus, but TEF Québec has a higher emphasis on oral skills for immigration purposes. The speaking and writing sections may include topics specific to Quebec society (e.g., integration, cultural norms).

Key difference: TEF Québec requires a minimum score of 7 in speaking and listening for CSQ eligibility. TEF Canada uses CLB equivalency for Express Entry.

How to Prepare for TEF in 4 Weeks

1. 1Week 1: Assess your level with a full-length mock test. Identify weak sections.
2. 2Week 2: Focus on listening and reading – do 2 practice sets daily.
3. 3Week 3: Practice writing and speaking. Write 2 essays and record 3 speaking responses.
4. 4Week 4: Take 2 more mock tests under timed conditions. Review mistakes.

See TEF mock-test packs and pricing: <a href="/plans">View plans →</a>

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring time management: Many candidates run out of time in reading. Practice with a timer.
• Overcomplicating answers: In speaking, simple correct sentences score better than complex wrong ones.
• Neglecting formal register: Written expression requires formal tone. Avoid slang.
• Skipping mock tests: Without simulation, you won't know your real speed and accuracy.

Where to next?

• TEF vs TCF: Which French exam should you take?
• TEF Canada CLB equivalency table
• Free TEF practice test for listening and reading