When it comes to demonstrating proficiency in the French language as someone who is not French, the DELF is an official qualification that does just that.
DELF stands for Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française, or Diploma in French Language Studies. It can be used to enhance your resume, give you an advantage for postsecondary studies, and recognize your achievements in the study of French.
The DELF is made up of four independent diplomas that each indicate a certain level. Candidates can choose the level that they register for. For basic users, the DELF A1 and A2 are available. For independent users, the DELF B1 and B2 are available.
The exam assesses four aspects of language: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Each part is out of 25 points, and at least 5 points must be obtained in each section. To get the diploma, an overall mark of 50 out of 100 is required.
There are different versions available: one aimed at adults, one aimed at children in elementary school, one aimed at preadolescents and adolescents, one for schools, and one aimed at people seeking employment in French-speaking workplaces. The first four do not indicate the version on the diploma, but the last one indicates that it is the “professional option”. The DELF exams for children and adolescents are created with the same model as the DELF for adults, but the topics are more relevant to the age group.
The DELF is valid everywhere and for life. It is recognized internationally, and it never expires.