TCF IRN: French Citizenship & Residency Language Test
Everything you need to know about using TCF IRN for French naturalization and carte de résident — requirements, scoring, compensation rule, and preparation
Since 2025, TCF IRN replaced both TCF ANF and TCF Carte de résident as the single exam for citizenship and residency in France.
What Is TCF IRN?
The mandatory French language test for citizenship and residency applications in France.
IRN = Intégration, Résidence et Nationalité
TCF IRN is the official French proficiency test for anyone applying for French citizenship (naturalisation) or a residence permit (carte de résident).
Replaced TCF ANF and TCF CRF in 2025
Since January 2025, TCF IRN is the single exam replacing both TCF ANF (for nationality) and TCF Carte de résident. One test, two purposes.
Required For
French citizenship (naturalisation), carte de résident (10-year), and carte de résident longue durée. Also accepted for multi-year residence permits.
Administered by France Éducation International
The test is designed and managed by France Éducation International (formerly CIEP), the same organization behind all TCF variants.
May 2025 Reform
Major changes: new question counts (25 MCQ per comprehension section), difficulty capped at B2 (no C1-C2 questions), score scale 0-499, and shorter overall duration.
CECRL Level Requirements
Know exactly what TCF IRN scores you need for your French citizenship or residency application.
| Purpose | Minimum Level | TCF IRN Scores Required |
|---|---|---|
| French citizenship (naturalisation) | B1 | Listening: 300+, Reading: 300+, Writing: 6/20, Speaking: 6/20 |
| Carte de résident (10 years) | A2 | Listening: 200+, Reading: 200+, Writing: 4/20, Speaking: 4/20 |
| Carte de résident longue durée | A2 | Listening: 200+, Reading: 200+, Writing: 4/20, Speaking: 4/20 |
The IRN Compensation Rule
A unique feature of TCF IRN that can save your application even with one weaker section.
How Compensation Works
Your global CECRL level is normally determined by your lowest section score. However, the IRN compensation rule allows one slightly weaker section to be compensated if the other three meet the target level.
| Target Level | 3 Sections Must Reach | 4th Section Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| B1 (citizenship) | 300+ | 267+ |
| A2 (carte de résident) | 200+ | 167+ |
| B2 | 400+ | 367+ |
Example
A candidate applying for citizenship scores: Listening 350, Reading 320, Writing 8/20 (B1), Speaking 5/20 (below B1). Three sections reach B1 (300+), but Speaking at 5/20 is below the compensation threshold (6/20 = 267 equivalent). Result: compensation does NOT apply, and the global level is A2 — the application would be rejected for citizenship.
TCF IRN Exam Format
All 4 sections are mandatory. The exam is capped at B2 difficulty with a shorter format than other TCF variants.
| Section | Questions/Tasks | Duration | Max Level |
|---|---|---|---|
Compréhension orale | 25 MCQ | 20 min | B2 |
Compréhension écrite | 25 MCQ | 35 min | B2 |
Expression écrite | 3 tasks | 30 min | B2 |
Expression orale | 3 tasks | 10 min | B2 |
Key Differences from TCF Canada / Tout Public
Where to Take TCF IRN
In France
Available at Alliance Française centers and accredited universities across France. Most major cities have multiple testing locations.
Outside France
Some Alliance Française centers abroad offer TCF IRN. Check with France Éducation International for the list of authorized centers in your country.
Registration
Register directly through the test center. No central registration platform — contact your preferred Alliance Française or university center.
Cost
Typically 150-250 EUR depending on the test center. Prices vary by location. Some centers offer reduced rates.
Results
Results are typically available within 3-4 weeks after the test date. You receive an official attestation valid for 2 years.
How to Prepare for TCF IRN
Know Your Target Level
B1 for citizenship, A2 for carte de résident. Use our CECRL converter to check where you stand before you begin.
Focus on All 4 Sections
Unlike some tests, TCF IRN requires all 4 sections. Don't neglect writing and speaking — they're often the weakest areas.
Practice with IRN-Specific Content
TCF IRN is capped at B2, so focus on A1-B2 content. Our platform lets you select the IRN variant for targeted practice.
Understand the Compensation Rule
Know the exact thresholds. If one section is slightly weak, the compensation rule might save you — but don't rely on it.
Take Timed Practice Tests
The IRN is shorter than other TCF variants. Practice under timed conditions to build speed and confidence.
TCF DAP: For University Admission
TCF DAP (Demande d'Admission Préalable) is a separate TCF variant for international students applying to French universities. It should not be confused with TCF IRN.
- B2 minimum typically required for university admission
- Tests Listening, Reading, and Writing only — no speaking section
- Uses the standard TCF scale (100-699 for comprehension, 0-20 for writing)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TCF IRN for French citizenship and residency
Start Your TCF IRN Preparation Today
Practice with realistic IRN-format mock tests and get AI-powered feedback on writing and speaking.