The DELF and DALF are different tests offered by the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework in order to identify your French level of proficiency related to the official European guideline.
Similar tests throughout Europe have been created for other European languages, each of which is divided into six levels, starting from A1 and going through to C2.
In France, these levels are tested using the DELF and DALF exams.
- The DELF exam tests the A1 and A2 levels, which are seen as beginner or “basic,” and the B1 and B2 levels, which are intermediate or “independent.”
- The DALF tests C1 and C2, which are referred to as advanced or “proficient.”
DELF or DALF: Which Test Is Right for You (and How to Pass It)
Why Take a Test?
The diplomas demonstrate a level of uniformity in being able to communicate in French, so they can provide an employer or a school with a level of confidence in knowing that their candidate is capable or not capable of communicating in French.
How to Choose the Right Test for You: DELF or DALF
If you want to take one of these tests to prove your French level, it is imperative that you choose the correct test.
Why?
Because unlike placement tests, the DELF and DALF do not tell you what your level is. Rather, you must ascertain which level you believe you have and take the appropriate test to earn that diploma, thus validating your level.
If you take and fail a B2 test, for example, you cannot earn a B1 diploma. If you take a B1 test and pass with flying colors, the judges will not give you a B2 diploma.
For this reason, unless you absolutely need to prove that you have a certain level, for example for a job or university entrance requirement, it is often a good idea to err on the side of caution and take the test that you believe may be easier. This way, you will hold at least one diploma no matter what, and you can set your sights on the next level afterwards.
To choose which test to take, first read the descriptions below, and try to ascertain which category of test best suits your language level. Then try some test exercises to zero in on the proper test to take.
The DELF
The DELF, or Diplôme d’études en langue française is the test that will concern most French learners, as it tests levels from A1 through B2, covering beginner and intermediate learners.
Within the DELF category of tests are four different exams. When opting to take the DELF, you will have to choose amongst the DELF A1, DELF A2, DELF B1 or DELF B2 tests, as each test is specially tailored to students of that level.
The DELF is one of the most useful diplomas to have, particularly when applying to French jobs or for French university degrees. Most undergraduate and graduate programs require a B2 diploma, though some undergraduate programs accept B1. B1 and B2 are also the levels that most French workplaces require.
The DALF
The DALF or Diplôme approfondi de langue française is the advanced language diploma. It is very similar to the DELF, though it is not always offered at the same test centers at the same time as the DELF is being administered. Two DALF tests exist: one for level C1, and the other for level C2.
A C1 is required by some master’s and doctorate programs.
C2 is a rare test to take, as by the time you have reached this level, you usually have another degree that outweighs it, for example a French master’s degree. Earning a C2 diploma usually requires at least several months of immersive learning as well, meaning that someone with a C2 level has likely already attended French university or worked in a French job.
What the Tests Are Like
The DELF and DALF vary enormously depending on which level exam you are taking, but in spite of this, the format remains very similar for all of the tests.
Each of the tests examines four different elements of French language, highlighting cultural comprehension as well as linguistic comprehension. The four elements are:
- reading comprehension
- listening comprehension
- writing expression
- oral expression
Each of the sections of the DELF and DALF are graded out of 25 points. You must get at least 50 points total to pass, with at least 5 points in each section.
Each level will have different time allocated to each of the sections, as well as a different format. For example, in the DALF, the oral expression will require a 20-minute presentation and interview, whereas for the DELF, just a few questions will be asked.
For more information about the specifics of the section that concerns you, check out this official guide to the DELF and DALF.
How to Sign Up for the DELF or DALF
Once you have decided which test best suits your level, it is time to sign up. There are a variety of testing centers throughout the world where you can take the tests, and you can usually easily sign up online.
Registration fees vary depending on the testing center, but usually begin at around $100 for the lowest levels and up to $200-250 for the DALF.
How to Succeed at the DELF or DALF
So how can you succeed at these tests? The best way is to be prepared and practice. Like with any test, it is a good idea to get used to the format of the test, which is why on top of your regular French practice, you should try some exercises in the same format as the DELF and DALF.
This is why we created the ebook Français pratique pour la main-d’œuvre, which is available in Amazon and other online stores, (https://teachableskills.com/available-for-pre-order/?preview_id=237&preview_nonce=ed12f09ce8&preview=true). This guide helps you prepare for oral communication and comprehension exams and job interviews. In the book, several of the key types of questions and the ideal response structures are outlined in order to help you deliver complex and well-structured responses. In addition, the book includes over 40 themes relevant to the workplace, which contains a list of common vocabulary terms and phrases, reference videos, and reference text to further guide you in advancing your French oral communication and comprehension skills.
If you are preparing for either the DELF or DALF exam, then this guide is recommended for you. You can pre-order your copy of Français pratique pour la main-d’œuvre at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CBG385X.