DELF vs. DALF: Which French Proficiency Test Should You go with?

Learning French is a rewarding journey. Whether for the journey, professional upgrade, cultural fondness, or cognitive growth, the advantages of learning French are vast and widespread. Enhance your language capabilities or climb the corporate ladder by earning an authorized certification in French can open a world of possibilities.

These two tests are renowned tests across the world.

In dilemma that which one is right per your requirements. No worries – we are here to help you sort the differences.

Let’s dive in!

What is DELF?

DELF, aka, Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française is meant for beginner-to-intermediate levels with four parts: A1, A2, B1, and B2, per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. This proficiency test is mainly for those who are just beginning to study French—school students or adults who have no command on French and have never learned in the past.

Various Levels, What to Expect

  • A1: Absolute beginner level. You will be expected to show you can understand simple sentences, such as essential words and everyday usage.
  • A2: Elementary proficiency. You can deal with most things about known information to take tasks such as getting directions or talking.
  • B1: You can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken.
  • B2: Upper intermediate. It allows more depth in conversation, articulated nuance of your thoughts and less broadness through writing.

For students and professionals seeking robust, widely recognized proof of their ability to speak French in various real-life situations, the DELF is an excellent place for them to start.

And the best part?

You can stop at the lowest level that suits your needs!

What is DALF?

DALF aka Le Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française is the second advanced diploma after DELF. The DELF exam is for intermediate French language proficiency and employers or schools generally need them. The DALF diploma, in turn, is designed for the most advanced students and is divided into two levels: C1 and C2. These two levels are often required if you are studying at the faculty, at a university or working in a professional sector, where it is essential to be as close as possible to a native speaker.

Here are these levels:

C1: You use French autonomously. You can write complex text on linked subjects and explain your viewpoints at some length.

C2: You are proficient at speaking the language. There is nothing you cannot understand, comprehend with ease, and fluently express in any context.

Ideal for working in a French-speaking environment, studying in school or working in another professional capacity when your aim is to work with French, DALF C1 or C2 would be definitely the certificate of choice.

Difference between DELF and DALF

The Delf Dalf test will evaluate your French level. Both of them are tests for proficiency in French.

However, they are slightly different:

Level: DELF (defense) is designed for beginners and incomplete people until you have mastered all the basics. DALF (Approfacitaire; Avancé) is designed if you have advanced for right now.

Examination Levels for DELF level is (A1-B2) & DALF level is (C1-C2)

Use case: DELF suits those in training, while DALF is recommended to professionals and students seeking official education or work diplomas.

Which Test Should You Take? The test that is right for you will vary depending on your goals.

Let’s break it down:

For learners: If you aim to study French, consider beginning with the B1 or B2 level of DELF. CEFR level will offer you all the life skills you need to survive confidently abroad in a French-speaking country.

For Professionals: DALF C1 or C2 if you need French for work, use it professionally. These levels can show an employer that you have the language skills necessary to work in French and are often required for professional positions at more senior levels.

Young Learners: If you know that your elementary class is ready to graduate from the 500 words in French, praising and rewarding them with DELF A1 and A2 would be well-received. They are designed for basic tasks and day-to-day language, making them a great starting point for your Spanish studies. 

Why Elite French Tutoring?

Learning French can be tedious, but it should be an enjoyable experience driven by your personal goals. We provide tailored tuition for exams such as the DELF and DALF, which will enable you to pass them with flying colors and guarantee a lifelong love of the French language.

That’s not all; this is why Elite French Tutoring should be your first option:

Seasoned Tutors: Our tutors are native and skilled French speakers with years of experience. Also, they have been trained to help students prepare for the DELF and DALF exams.

Personalized Learning Plan we will create an individual learning plan for you based on your objectives and current level. This series of posts is for you, whether you’re at level B1 in DELF or C1 in DALF.

Interactive Lessons: Learning French should be fun and only take a few minutes daily. We use scenarios and actual practice lessons to keep you engaged.

Flexible Hours: We understand that your schedule is packed, so we offer tutoring hours to accommodate your responsibilities. We care about your journey and believe you will experience results working with us.

Conclusion

Whether or not to take the DELF DALF test is essential and depends on your current proficiency level and what you hope to accomplish. These are excellent certifications that you can use to get ahead in French! If you are still trying to figure out where to begin or need professional guidance, Elite French Tutoring is here to supervise every part of the procedure. You can jumpstart your French today with Elite French Tutoring.

Contact us to discuss how you will achieve your goals and ensure that you are fully ready for success!

Elite French Tutoring’s market-leading in-person and online French lessons for adults, children, and the business and corporate community are open to all who seriously desire to bring their spoken French to the next level.

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About the Author

Andrei is a linguist who speaks several languages fluently. He founded Elite French Tutoring as an expression of his passion for entrepreneurship and for the French language and French culture. He has helped numerous professionals, students and young people dramatically improve their skills in the French language.

As the Emperor Charlemagne said: "To have another language is to possess a second soul."

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