Pairs often confused
DELF, DALF or TCF in French?
The DELF and the DALF are DIPLOMAS, valid for life, one up to B2 and the other beyond; the TCF is a TEST, which gives a score and expires in two years.
Why
DELF and DALF are the same exam under two names: DELF from A1 to B2, DALF at C1 and C2. You enrol for ONE level, pass or fail it, and the diploma stays. The TCF cannot be failed: it measures, and returns an overall level with an expiry date. For a university or an urgent residence file, the TCF is quicker; for a CV and for life, the DELF or the DALF. Many take both: the TCF for the file, the DELF for themselves.
DELF
Diplôme DELF B2 délivré le 12 juillet, valable sans limite de durée.
DELF B2 diploma issued on 12 July, valid indefinitely.
DALF
Le DALF C1 est exigé pour l'inscription en master de lettres.
The DALF C1 is required for enrolment in the arts master's.
TCF
Attestation TCF : niveau B1 global, valable jusqu'au 3 mars 2028.
TCF certificate: overall level B1, valid until 3 March 2028.