Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF) exam

The Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF) is the official French-language diploma awarded by France’s Ministry of National Education.

The DELF is an official certificate of French second language proficiency. It's recognized in 170 countries and is valid for life.

Is the DELF exam mandatory?

The DELF exam is an optional exam. The results have no impact on your grade or graduation requirements. 

What is the DELF test?

The exam tests your ability to use French in real-life situations. It tests 4 language skills through 2 exams including: 

  • a collective written exam (listening, reading, writing); and 
  • an individual oral exam (speaking) 

You can earn certificates at various levels, such as: 

  • A2 Elementary
  • B1 Pre-intermediate; and
  • B2 Intermediate  

Why should you take the DELF exam? 

French is the official language in almost 50 countries, including Canada. It is spoken by more than 200 million people on 5 continents. French is the official language of the United Nations and the Red Cross among many other international organizations. 

The DELF: 

  • is an international recognition of French language skills; 
  • is based on an international standard used in more than 170 countries; 
  • is recognized internationally by francophone post-secondary institutions;
  • can lead to acceptance into a university in France (B2 or higher level); 
  • helps open doors to a wide range of opportunities throughout Canada and around the world; and 
  • can provide professional advancement opportunities. 

If you're successful on the DELF exam, you can earn 4 credits by bringing your results letter or DELF certificate to your school administration. 

How can I take the DELF exam in the Yukon?

The Association Franco-Yukonnaise (AFY) coordinates the DELF exam and offers 3 levels: 

  • A2 (elementary)
  • B1 (pre-intermediate); and
  • B2 (intermediate).

To find out more information about the DELF, visit the the Diplôme d’études en langue française | Association franco-yukonnaise.

Eligibility 

The DELF exam is free 1 time to students in the Yukon who are: 

  • in Grades 11 and 12; 
  • enrolled in a French Second Language program; and 
  • completing their final French course. 

You can only test 1 level at a time. Discuss with your French teacher which level of exam you should take. The results will have no impact on your French grade as the exam is optional. 

Fees

The fees for the DELF are covered 1 time if you meet the eligibility requirements mentioned above and are either a Grade 11 or Grade 12 student who is completing their final French course. 

If you're unable to attend, you must inform the AFY as soon as possible. If you’re absent for a medical reason, you must provide a medical note. If you don’t provide a medical note, you will pay an administration fee of $130. 

2023 dates 

You must be available for the date and time of the written and oral exams. Changes to the schedule can not be made. The time of your oral exam will be provided 1 week in advance by email. 

You can not change your exam time with another available time. You must be present for both written and oral exams or your exam will be marked as incomplete. 

Exam dates

To find out the date and time of all  exams, visit Diplôme d’études en langue française | Association franco-yukonnaise

All individual oral exams are scheduled by the AFY. Exams are held in person at the Association Franco-Yukonnaise at 302 Strickland Street, Whitehorse. 

How to register for the DELF

To register, visit the AFY webpage. The deadline to register for the DELF exam, is Friday, March 24, 2023. You must register by 4:00 p.m. 

Online preparation courses will be offered for DELF. You can sign up when you register online. 

For more information and resources

If you have questions, talk to your child's French teacher.