Introduction to the DELF/DALF
What is DELF/DALF and why should you take it? Here are some rather compelling reason, as well as a list of what to expect from the common tests in French
On this page
But first, what is the DELF/DALF?What are the different sections of the DELF exams?Why should you take a DELF exam?While most French language learners are contented with studying just the very basics, there are those high-aiming ones who prefer to go all the way and get a certification of their proficiency.
If you happen to be one of these far-sighted and high-reaching individuals, let us give you a hearty pat on the back as we collectively say “good for you!”
The following discussion should be of high relevance to you since we will talk about the DELF/DALF and give you an introduction of what to expect.
But first, what is the DELF/DALF?
The DELF or Diplôme d’études en langue français (which literally means Diploma in French Studies in English) is an official certification given by France’s National Ministry of Education to non-native French speakers after completing a set of proficiency tests. It is valid for life and is recognized anywhere in the world.
The DELF certification is based on four different reference levels: A1,A2, B1, and B2.
A – Basic language user
A1 – Beginner
A2 – Elementary
B – Independent user
B1 – Pre intermediate
B2 – Intermediate
Beyond the B2 level, it is already certified by the DALF with two more high-proficiency levels: C1 and C2.
C – Proficient user
C1 – Proficiency
C2 – Mastery
The different levels correspond to the proficiency level of the exam-taker, and since these exams are all independent of each other, you don’t need to take all levels. You can take the level which you think suits your current proficiency (or confidence level!)
The highest certificate you get will determine your level of proficiency in French.
DELF is available in three different categories of exams based on the age and current academic level of the exam-taker. The exams are similar, but properly tailored to be age-appropriate.
- DELF Prim – for primary school students (up to A1 level only)
- DELF Junior et Scolaire – for secondary school-aged students
- DELF Tous Publics – for the adults
What are the different sections of the DELF exams?
The exams are divided into four categories: listening (to assess oral comprehension), reading (to assess written comprehension), writing (to test written expression), and speaking (to test oral expression).
1st Part: Listening
For this part, the examinee has to listen to some recordings and after which, he or she has to answer a series of comprehension questions based on the recordings. The selections to be played vary in length and number of times played, depending on the level of the examination.
2nd Part: Reading
For this section of the exam, the examinee will be given pieces of written material followed by a set of comprehension questions. The texts to be read by the candidate vary in length depending on the level of the exam.
3rd Part: Writing
For this part of the exam, the difficulty level once again varies. A1 examinees will be asked to fill out simple texts. A2 examinees will be tasked to describe events in their life as well as write simple day-to-day expressions.
B1 examinees need to express a viewpoint through an essay or article. Finally, B2 examinees will need to write down an argument or opinion similar to that of B1, but with higher scope.
4th Part: Speaking
The last part of the exam is to be taken separately from the first three, and this involves talking one-on-one with an examiner. The degree of difficulty in the conversation would still be based on the level of the exam being taken, and the tasks range from simple discussions to defending an opinion.
Most exam-takers would find the reading and writing part relatively easy. The difficulty is often in the listening and speaking part. For this reason, constant practice in listening and talking skills are always advised to those who are planning to take the DELF. You can do this by regularly conversing with native French speakers.
In order to pass the DELF exams, you need to get a minimum rating for all four sections (reading, writing, listening, speaking). The exam totals 100 points with 25 points for each section. To pass in a certain section, the minimum score is 5/25. To pass the whole exam, you need a total score of 50 out of 100.
Why should you take a DELF exam?
If you’re not yet sold out on the idea of getting a DELF certification, here are some (awesome!) reasons why you ought to be considering it:
- The certification is officially recognized everywhere in the world!
- It will look super great on your CV!
- It is an official recognition of your kick-ass French language skills.
- It doesn’t expire and you can use it until the rest of your stay on this earth.
- Nothing says you’re fluent with a language than having the papers to show for it!
- It opens up opportunities for you in French-speaking countries.
- It is accepted in French universities (B2 level and higher).
- It supports your claim that you are an awesome, highly-accomplished individual (and that you rock in speaking French!)
- It can help you in advancing your career.
So if you’re now all pumped and ready to prepare for a DELF certification, you can check out this link for the official DELF/DALF site. We can help you in your preparations too! Just check out the pages of this website on how we can help you in your French language studies.
Best of luck!
