What is DELF Exam?

The DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is an official French language certification awarded by the French Ministry of Education. It is recognized internationally and often required for academic, professional or immigration purposes. The DELF exam is divided into four levels: A1, A2, B1, and B2, and tests your skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
The DELF exam is for non-native speakers, who want their French language skills to be validated for academic, professional and personal purposes. Whether you are applying for a job in a French-speaking country, planning to study in France or Canada or simply want to benchmark your language progress, the DELF is the perfect credential for you.

Explaining the DELF Exam Levels

The exam is divided into four levels-

• A1 – Beginner
• A2 – Elementary
• B1 – Intermediate
• B2 – Upper Intermediate

Each level tests your proficiency in the four key areas of communication-

• Listening (Compréhension orale)
• Reading (Compréhension écrite)
• Writing (Production écrite)
• Speaking (Production orale)

DELF A1:

DELF A1 is the first step to learn French in your French speaking journey. It certifies basic language ability and is ideal for absolute beginners who do not have any prior knowledge of the language. At this level, learners become comfortable with everyday expressions, introducing themselves and interacting in familiar situations.

By the end of A1, you will be able to:

• Introduce yourself and others, and ask basic questions
• Talk about your nationality, age, profession and preferences
• Understand simple instructions, signs and directions
• Engage in basic interactions like ordering food, buying tickets, etc.
• Write very short and simple texts like notes, greetings and invitations

At French Tree, our DELF A1 course focuses on pronunciation, foundational grammar (like present tense and gender) and vocabulary building through engaging activities and visuals. It’s perfect for school students, travelers, and curious beginners.

DELF A2:

DELF A2 is built on the basics of A1. To get to A2 level of French, having the understanding of A1 is important. At this level, learners can communicate about routine matters, such as shopping, work or family life. You’ll gain more confidence in carrying out everyday conversation.

What you’ll be able to do:

• Describe your daily routine, hobbies, interests and plans
• Hold simple conversations about weather, travel and services
• Ask for and give directions, make appointments
• Read and understand basic articles, advertisements or instructions
• Write short personal messages, notes and informal emails

Our DELF A2 course at French Tree emphasizes functional language use and real-life simulations. We introduce more grammar that includes complex tenses such as passé compose & future proche, listening exercises and pair activities for practical communication.

DELF B1:

DELF B1 is a turning point where learners move from understanding language to actively using it in complex daily situations. It is a huge shift from A2 to B1, as the grammar and vocabulary, everything is more complex now. This level is often required for immigration, internships and studying in French-speaking institutions.

At this level, you will:

• Understand the main points of clear speech on familiar topics like TV, work, leisure
• Handle most situations while traveling in a French-speaking area
• Express opinions, agree/disagree and explain reasons
• Read and summarize straightforward texts like interviews or news
• Write personal letters, emails and basic essays with structure

French Tree’s DELF B1 course focuses on fluency, listening comprehension and expressing thoughts in spoken and written French. We prepare you through debate practice, structured writing exercises, and mock interviews.

DELF B2:

DELF B2 certifies the ability to speak fluently, argue a point of view and understand complex material. It is often required for:

• Admission to French universities
• Immigration (e.g. TEF Canada / Québec)
• Jobs in multinational companies

By the end of B2, you can:

• Understand abstract topics, arguments and detailed articles
• Take part in formal discussions, meetings and debates
• Write detailed, well-structured texts (reports, formal letters, opinion pieces)
• Express ideas clearly and interact with native speakers without much strain
• Use advanced grammar (subjunctive, relative clauses, connectors) confidently

At French Tree, our DELF B2 preparation goes beyond exam techniques. We focus on advanced vocabulary, presentation skills, time-bound writing and polishing your pronunciation to ensure success in professional and academic settings.

DELF Exam Structure

Passing Criteria for DELF:

The time duration for each exam depends on its level. Each DELF level (A1, A2, B1, B2) tests 4 skills and each section is scored out of 25, for a total of 100 marks.
To clear the DELF exam:

• You must score at least 50 out of 100 overall, AND
• You must score a minimum of 5 out of 25 in each section
  If you have an overall score of 70 but only 3 marks in listening, you will not pass.

Prepare for DELF with Confidence Only at French Tree

Whether you're just starting out with DELF A1 or aiming for B2 certification, French Tree is your trusted partner in success. Explore our range of courses designed for your success.