If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada and need to prove your French language proficiency, you’ve likely come across two exam names: TEF Canada and TEFAQ. While both are official French language tests, they serve different purposes — and choosing the wrong one could delay your immigration application.
In this guide, we break down the key differences between TEF Canada and TEFAQ so you can choose the right exam and register with confidence at our official exam centre in downtown Montreal.
What Is TEF Canada?
TEF Canada (Test d’Évaluation de Français pour le Canada) is a French language proficiency test designed specifically for federal immigration programs in Canada.
It is recognized by:
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class)
- Canadian permanent residency applications
- Canadian citizenship applications
TEF Canada evaluates four components: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Your results are converted into CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) levels, which directly impact your Express Entry points (CRS score).
What Is TEFAQ?
TEFAQ (Test d’Évaluation de Français adapté au Québec) is designed specifically for Quebec immigration programs.
It is recognized by:
- Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI)
- Programme de l’Expérience Québécoise (PEQ)
- ARRIMA (Quebec immigration portal)
- Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) applications
TEFAQ evaluates two components: listening and speaking (oral skills only).
A separate written component (TEF) may also be required depending on the program.
Key Differences: TEF Canada vs TEFAQ
| TEF Canada | TEFAQ | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Federal immigration (Express Entry, PR, citizenship) | Quebec immigration (PEQ, ARRIMA, CSQ) |
| Recognized by | IRCC (federal) | MIFI (Quebec) |
| Components | Listening, speaking, reading, writing | Listening, speaking (oral only) |
| Scoring system | CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) | Quebec language levels |
| Duration | ~3.5 hours | ~1.5 hours |
Which Exam Do You Need?
Choose TEF Canada if:
- You are applying through Express Entry (FSW, CEC, FSTC)
- You are applying for Canadian permanent residency through a federal program
- You need to meet language requirements for Canadian citizenship
- Your immigration consultant has specified TEF Canada
Choose TEFAQ if:
- You are applying through a Quebec immigration program (PEQ, ARRIMA)
- You need a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ)
- You are applying through a Quebec-specific stream
Do You Need Both Exams?
Some applicants — particularly those applying to Quebec programs while also maintaining a federal application — may need both exams.
We recommend consulting your immigration lawyer or advisor to confirm your situation.
Can I Take Both TEF Canada and TEFAQ at the Same Centre?
Yes. Our official exam centre in downtown Montreal is certified for both TEF Canada and TEFAQ.
You can book both exams at a centrally located venue with easy metro access.
Register for TEF Canada or TEFAQ in Montreal
Don’t let exam confusion slow down your immigration journey. Our team is here to help you choose and register for the right exam.
Official TEF Canada and TEFAQ exam centre | Downtown Montreal | Metro accessible
Contact us today to check available exam dates and complete your registration.