What’s my French level? Quick self-check
Four skills, six “I can…” statements each. About two minutes. You’ll see a rough level per skill and which one holds you back.
- Listening—
- Reading—
- Writing—
- Speaking—
A rough self-estimate, not an official score. Only a TEF Canada or TCF Canada result counts for IRCC, and many people rate themselves higher or lower than an examiner would, especially in writing and speaking. CEFR ↔ NCLC matches are approximate.
How it works
For each skill, tick every statement that’s true for you. We count up from the easiest statement to the first one you leave blank. That gives a rough CEFR level (A1 to C2), which we match approximately to NCLC using research for the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks: A2 ≈ NCLC 3–4, B1 ≈ NCLC 5–7, B2 ≈ NCLC 8–9.
For Express Entry, your lowest skill decides whether you reach NCLC 7 for the French bonus and French-language draws, so that’s the one we highlight.
This is a self-estimate, not a score. Only a TEF Canada or TCF Canada result counts for IRCC, and a timed mock test is the best way to check before you book.
- ✓ All four skills
- ✓ Estimated CEFR + approximate NCLC
- ✓ Highlights your lowest skill
- ✓ Next steps for your level
Common questions
Start with a can-do self-check like this one, then take a timed practice test in the TEF Canada or TCF Canada format. Only the real exam gives an official NCLC.
Roughly NCLC 8–9, so B2 in every skill comfortably clears NCLC 7. The match is approximate, and IRCC only uses your TEF Canada or TCF Canada result converted to NCLC.
It’s a rough guide. Many people over- or underestimate writing and speaking, which examiners grade against detailed criteria.
Your weakest one. The French bonus and category draws need NCLC 7 in every skill, and there’s no averaging.