TCF Score to CECRL/CEFR Level Converter
Enter your TCF scores and instantly see your European language level. Check if you meet the requirements for French citizenship, residency, or university.
Convert Your TCF Score
Select your TCF variant, enter your scores, and see your CECRL/CEFR level for each section instantly.
General-purpose TCF. Comprehension scored 100-699, production 0-20. Levels A1 to C2.
University Requirement Check
French University Admission
B2 typically required in all 4 skills for French university admission
CECRL/CEFR Level Descriptions
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages defines 6 proficiency levels from basic to mastery.
Breakthrough / Beginner
Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions. Can introduce themselves and ask basic personal questions. Can interact simply if the other person speaks slowly.
Waystage / Elementary
Can understand frequently used expressions in routine tasks (shopping, family, work). Can describe their background and immediate environment in simple terms.
Threshold / Intermediate
Can understand the main points of standard speech on familiar topics (work, school, leisure). Can produce connected text and describe experiences, events, and aspirations.
Vantage / Upper Intermediate
Can understand the main ideas of complex text. Can interact fluently and spontaneously with native speakers. Can produce detailed text on a wide range of subjects.
Effective Proficiency / Advanced
Can understand demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.
Mastery / Proficient
Can understand virtually everything heard or read with ease. Can summarize and reconstruct arguments coherently. Can express themselves spontaneously and precisely.
French Citizenship Language Requirements
To obtain French citizenship through naturalisation or declaration, you must demonstrate French language proficiency via the TCF IRN. Since the January 2026 reform, B1 is required in both oral AND written skills.
| Pathway | Minimum Level | Sections Required |
|---|---|---|
| Naturalisation | B1 | All 4 skills (oral + written) |
| Declaration (marriage) | B1 | All 4 skills (oral + written) |
Since January 2026, written B1 is also required. Previously, only oral B1 was mandatory for naturalisation.
French Residency Language Requirements
Different residence permits in France require different CECRL levels on the TCF IRN. Here are the current minimums:
| Permit Type | Minimum CECRL Level |
|---|---|
| Multi-year residence permit (carte de sejour pluriannuelle) | A2 |
| Long-term resident card (carte de resident) | B1 |
These requirements apply to the TCF IRN. Check with your prefecture for the latest requirements as they may vary.
University Admission Requirements
Most French universities require a minimum B2 level in all skills for admission. The TCF Tout Public or TCF DAP are the accepted tests for this purpose.
B2 minimum in all 4 skills
Some competitive programs (grandes ecoles, master's programs) may require C1. Always check the specific requirements of your target institution.
IRN Compensation Rule Explained
The TCF IRN includes a compensation rule that allows a slightly lower score in one skill if the other three are strong enough. Here are the exact thresholds (on the comprehension-equivalent scale):
| Target Global Level | 3 Skills Minimum | 4th Skill Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| A2 | ≥ 200 | ≥ 167 |
| B1 | ≥ 300 | ≥ 267 |
| B2 | ≥ 400 | ≥ 367 |
Example
A candidate scores: Listening 420, Reading 380, Writing 12/20 (equivalent to B2 = 400), Speaking 8/20 (equivalent to B1 = 300). Three sections are at B2 level (400+), but Speaking is at 300. Since 300 < 367, compensation does NOT apply and the global level is B1, not B2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TCF scores and CECRL/CEFR levels.
Ready to Reach Your Target CECRL Level?
Start with 2 free full-length TCF exams. AI scoring on Writing and Speaking included.
No credit card required. Full AI grading included.