All you need to know about DELF and DALF in 3 minutes

All you need to know about DELF and DALF in 3 minutes

What are DELF and DALF?

DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) and DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) are official French language diplomas issued by the French Ministry of Education. They certify proficiency in French according to the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2.

How do I choose between DELF and DALF?

DELF is for levels A1 to B2, while DALF is for levels C1 and C2. Depending on your level of French proficiency, you should choose the most appropriate exam. For those seeking official certification, other exams such as TEF or TCF may also be considered.

Where can I take the exam?

The exam can be taken at approved centers such as Alliances Françaises and Instituts Français abroad. In France, several examination centers are available, often located in schools or universities.

How do I prepare for the DELF/DALF exam?

Preparation can be done face-to-face or by distance learning. Group or individual courses are offered by various institutions, and Too French’s e-learning platform enables flexible preparation tailored to individual needs.

How do I register?

Registration can be made directly with the examination centers. Some schools and institutions offer to assist candidates with administrative formalities.

Who takes these exams?

Candidates are generally between 18 and 35 years of age, often students or professionals wishing to settle in France or attest to a level of French for academic or professional reasons. DELF and DALF are recognized by universities and companies alike, making them invaluable for studying or working in France.

Exam structure and grading

The exams assess four skills: oral comprehension, written comprehension, oral production and written production. Each skill is marked out of 25 points, and a mark of less than 5 in any of the tests is eliminatory. A minimum of 50 points out of 100 is required to pass.

What are the main difficulties encountered?

Candidates often have methodological difficulties, particularly with exercises such as document synthesis and argumentative essays, which require a rigorous structure and a good command of the specifics of academic French.

Why is preparation important?

Preparing for the exams means becoming familiar with their structure and avoiding unpleasant surprises on exam day. Specialized teachers can help candidates improve their methodology and maximize their chances of success.

Resources for teachers of French as a foreign language

Resources are available on the Too French website, including sample subjects and online preparation paths. However, it is perfectly possible for an FLE teacher to prepare candidates without being formally certified.

Conclusion

DELF and DALF are essential diplomas for certifying a level of French, and open up a wide range of academic and professional opportunities. Proper preparation is the key to passing these exams!