The six levels in practice
| Level | Diploma | What you can do | Typically needed for |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | DELF A1 | Simple introductions and basic needs | Some family visas |
| A2 | DELF A2 | Routine exchanges on familiar matters | Some residence applications |
| B1 | DELF B1 | Travel, experiences, brief reasoned opinions | French nationality; some vocational routes |
| B2 | DELF B2 | Complex text, fluent interaction, argued writing | Most French-taught university courses |
| C1 | DALF C1 | Flexible academic and professional use | Selective and postgraduate French-taught courses |
| C2 | DALF C2 | Near-native command | Rarely required |
For an English-taught programme in France, a French certificate is usually not required — but French universities often still expect A2 or B1 for daily life, and the student experience outside class depends on it.
B2 is the level that matters for study
DELF B2 is the usual entry requirement for a French-taught bachelor or master's, and it is also the level at which the Campus France procedure stops being an obstacle. C1 appears for selective programmes and for subjects where language is central.
- Check the specific programme rather than the university — requirements are set at course level.
- Some universities accept TCF or TEF scores in place of a DELF diploma.
- A diploma never expires; a TCF or TEF score usually has a validity period.
Every Levels (A1–C2) question type
French Levels (A1–C2) — FAQs
3 questions
Usually B2 for a French-taught course, sometimes C1 for selective or postgraduate programmes. English-taught courses often require no French certificate.
No. They are diplomas and are valid for life, unlike TCF and TEF scores.
DELF covers A1 to B2 and DALF covers C1 and C2. They are separate diplomas at separate levels.
Levels (A1–C2) on the other exams
Sources
Written from the test board's own published material and checked on 1 October 2026.