Do you need to sit the TEF for a residence permit or naturalisation? Let's start with the most important point: not all versions of the TEF format are recognised by French prefectures. Here is what you need to know before registering.
TEF or TEF IRN: Which Version for Your Prefecture?
There are two versions of the TEF. The standard TEF is designed for academic purposes or immigration to Canada. It is not recognised by French prefectures.
The TEF IRN (Immigration, Résidence, Naturalisation) is the version specifically designed for administrative procedures in France. It is the only valid version for a residence permit or naturalisation application.
Key point: The certifications recognised by French prefectures are the DELF, TCF IRN, and TEF IRN. The standard TEF is not sufficient for your file. Source: service-public.fr.
What Are the TEF IRN Tests?
The TEF IRN includes tests that assess your comprehension of written and spoken French. Depending on your objective (multi-year card, resident card, naturalisation), written and oral expression tests may also be required.
Each test is timed. Practising under timed conditions is essential — time management is one of the main challenges on the day.
⚠️ Please verify: The exact breakdown of tests, their duration, and the number of questions may change. Check the official TEF IRN page on cci-paris-idf.fr before registering.
How to Read Your Results?
Each TEF IRN test receives a score. The overall score is calculated out of 900 points, corresponding to a level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): from A1 to C2.
For a multi-year residence card, you need to reach A2. For a resident card, B1. For naturalisation, B2. Check the exact score required for your target level on cci-paris-idf.fr.
⚠️ Please verify: The validity period of TEF IRN results may vary depending on your situation and prefecture. Confirm this on cci-paris-idf.fr before registering.
How to Prepare for the TEF IRN?
Knowing the exam format gives you a real advantage. Candidates who prepare make fewer mistakes and manage their time more effectively. Institut Evolution offers a TEF IRN preparation course tailored to your level and permit objective. An adviser can also help you compare the TEF IRN with other certifications recognised by the prefecture.
Not sure of your current level? Let's find out in 15 minutes.
Book an appointmentFrequently Asked Questions About the TEF IRN
The standard TEF assesses your French for international study or employment purposes. The TEF IRN (Immigration, Résidence, Naturalisation) is the version specifically designed for administrative procedures in France. Only the TEF IRN is recognised by French prefectures for residence permits and naturalisation.
The validity period of TEF IRN results may vary depending on your situation and prefecture. Check the official website at cci-paris-idf.fr or contact your prefecture to confirm the exact duration applicable to your file.
Technically yes, but it is not advisable. The TEF IRN has a specific format: timed tests, precise instructions, and strict time management. Targeted preparation helps you avoid common mistakes and achieve your target score on the first attempt.
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