🇨🇦 French Level Self-Test (A1–C2)
10 questions, ~2 minutes. Estimates your CEFR level for Quebec jobs, immigration, francisation.
How French level (CEFR) works in Quebec
Réponse rapide : Quebec uses the European CEFR scale (A1 to C2) plus the equivalent Échelle québécoise. For permanent immigration via PEQ or Arrima, you typically need B2 (intermediate-upper) in oral comprehension and production. The TEFAQ and TEF Canada exams are the standard certifications recognized by MIFI.
What each CEFR level means in practical Quebec terms
| CEFR | Real-world ability | Hours of study (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Survival phrases, name, age, basic shopping | ~90 hours |
| A2 | Daily errands, simple work tasks with help | ~180 hours |
| B1 | Independent in daily life; can hold a casual conversation | ~350 hours |
| B2 ★ (Quebec immigration threshold) | Professional emails, news reading, work meetings | ~550 hours |
| C1 | Complex topics fluently, almost native ease | ~900 hours |
| C2 | Native-equivalent for professional + academic use | ~1,200 hours |
The free Quebec francisation program
Quebec offers free French courses through MIFI (mifi.gouv.qc.ca) and partner schools. Full-time learners receive a $220/week financial allowance for up to 30 weeks. Part-time evening + Saturday options exist for working people. Online courses available since 2021. Newcomers and refugee claimants can register at any point. Eligibility: permanent or temporary residents who don't have French as a mother tongue.
Which test does Quebec require for immigration?
Quebec immigration accepts: TEFAQ (Test d'évaluation du français adapté au Québec — most popular, $400), TEF Canada, TCF Québec, et DELF/DALF B2+. All test 4 skills (oral comprehension, oral production, written comprehension, written production). For PEQ-Diplôme you need B2 in both oral skills. Arrima awards bonus points for B2 to C1+.
French Level FAQ
What level of French do I need to immigrate to Quebec?
For most Quebec economic immigration streams (PEQ, Arrima), you need at least B2 (level 7 on Quebec's scale) in oral comprehension and oral production. Written skills are scored separately and earn bonus points but are not always required at B2 level.
What's the difference between TEFAQ and TEF Canada?
TEFAQ is the Quebec-adapted version of TEF, used by Quebec immigration only. TEF Canada is used by IRCC for federal Express Entry. The content is similar but TEFAQ accepts only Quebec-recognized scores. If you're applying to Quebec, take TEFAQ.
How long does it take to reach B2 in French?
From zero to B2 typically requires 550 hours of focused study. Full-time francisation (25 hours/week) covers this in roughly 6 months. Part-time evening (6 hours/week) takes 2 years. Daily immersion in Quebec accelerates the timeline by 30%–50%.
Is the francisation program really free?
Yes. MIFI francisation is free for permanent residents, work permit holders and family-class immigrants. Full-time learners receive $220/week. The student doesn't pay tuition, materials are provided, and many schools offer free childcare during class.
Do I need French to work in Montreal?
It depends on the industry. Tech, finance, healthcare research, English law firms, and some hospitality jobs operate mostly in English. Public sector, customer-facing retail, government, and most healthcare require functional French (B1+). Bill 96 increased French requirements in many private workplaces since 2022.
How much does the TEFAQ test cost?
The TEFAQ exam costs ~$400 at accredited centers in Montreal (Alliance Française, Collège Mérici). Add prep materials ($50–$200) and optional courses. Results valid for 2 years.
Can I learn Quebec French in Montreal or only "Parisian" French?
Quebec French is taught at all MIFI schools. The grammar is identical to standard French; pronunciation, slang, and some vocabulary differ. Standard exams (TEFAQ, DELF) test international standard French — Quebec colloquialisms are not on tests but are essential for daily life.
Outils Montréal associés
- Newcomer to Montreal 30-Day Checklist
- Calculateur d'impôt sur le revenu du Québec
- Quiz de correspondance de quartier
This self-test is for orientation only. For immigration or job applications, take an official TEFAQ/TEF/DELF exam. Sources: MIFI Québec, Council of Europe CEFR framework.