French levels and exams

Here's an overview of the levels of French proficiency, as described by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), along with what you can typically do at each level and the corresponding exams:

A1 - Beginner

  - At this level, you have very basic knowledge of French.
  - You can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very simple sentences.
  - You can introduce yourself and others, and ask and answer questions about personal details.
  - You can interact in a simple way in situations where the other person speaks slowly and clearly.

  Exam: DELF A1 (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) or TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) niveau 1.

A2 - Elementary

  - Learners at this level have a bit more vocabulary and understanding.
  - You can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance.
  - You can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a direct exchange of information on familiar topics.
  - You can describe aspects of your background, immediate environment, and matters in areas of immediate need.

  Exam: DELF A2 or TCF niveau 2.

B1 - Intermediate

  - At this level, you can start to handle more complex language tasks.
  - You can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered.
  - You can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling.
  - You can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
  - You can describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions, and give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

  Exam: DELF B1 or TCF niveau 3.

B2 - Upper Intermediate

  - Learners at this level have a good command of the language.
  - You can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics.
  - You can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity.
  - You can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects.
  - You can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

  Exam: DELF B2 or TCF niveau 4.

C1 - Advanced

  - At this level, you have advanced proficiency.
  - You can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning.
  - You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.
  - You can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.
  - You can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects.

  Exam: DALF C1 (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) or TCF niveau 5.

C2 - Proficient

  - This is the highest level of language proficiency.
  - You can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.
  - You can summarize information from different sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
  - You can express yourself spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, even in complex situations.

  Exam: DALF C2 or TCF niveau 6.

As you progress through these levels, it's essential to engage with authentic materials, practice regularly, and seek opportunities for immersion to continue advancing in your French language skills. Language learning tools such as textbooks, online courses, language exchange partners, immersive experiences, and formal instruction can all be beneficial at different stages of your learning journey.