DELF vs DALF: Which French Certification Should You Choose?

Introduction

If you’re looking to prove your level of French, you’ve probably come across two major certifications: DELF and DALF. Both are official exams awarded by the French Ministry of Education, recognised worldwide, and highly valued for work, study, or immigration purposes.

But here’s the common question: Which one should you take, DELF or DALF?

This guide breaks down the differences, explains what each exam involves, and helps you decide which is best for your goals. Whether you’re preparing for university, moving abroad, or simply want to validate your French skills, you’ll find clarity here.

What Are DELF and DALF?

• DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française):
  • Levels: A1, A2, B1, B2 (beginner to upper-intermediate).
  • Focus: Everyday communication, practical skills, social and work situations.
  • Ideal for: Students, professionals, or anyone wanting to show competence in daily life and work contexts.
• DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française):
  • Levels: C1, C2 (advanced to near-native).
  • Focus: Academic, professional, and sophisticated French use, presentations, essays, debates.
  • Ideal for: University students, researchers, professionals working in French-speaking environments.

👉 Key difference: DELF = beginner to advanced-intermediate. DALF = advanced only.

Recognition and Use

Both DELF and DALF are:

• Officially issued by the French Ministry of Education.
• Internationally recognised in more than 170 countries.
• Lifelong (they never expire).

But there are differences in how they’re used:

• DELF B2: Often the minimum requirement for studying at a French university. Many employers also accept B2 for professional roles.
• DALF C1/C2: Aimed at high-level positions, postgraduate study, research, or jobs where you’ll be working fully in French.

Example:

• If you’re a foreign student applying to a French undergraduate programme, DELF B2 is usually enough.
• If you’re applying for a Master’s or PhD in France, DALF C1 may be required.

Exam Structure: DELF

The DELF exams are divided into four sections, across all levels:

1. Listening – short and longer recordings (dialogues, announcements, interviews).
2. Reading – texts adapted to your level (notices, articles, letters, reports).
3. Writing – short notes at A1, formal letters at B1, argumentative essays at B2.
4. Speaking – from guided dialogues at A1 to debates and arguments at B2.

👉 Example: At DELF B1, you might have to write a letter of complaint. At B2, you might need to give your opinion on a social issue in a mini-presentation.

Exam Structure: DALF

The DALF is more demanding and academic in style.

1. Listening – longer, authentic texts (lectures, debates).
2. Reading – in-depth articles, reports, or literary extracts.
3. Writing – at C1, structured essays; at C2, synthesis and analysis of complex documents.
4. Speaking – prepare and present an argument (10–15 minutes), then defend it in discussion.

👉 Example: At DALF C1, you may be asked to summarise two long texts and then write an essay based on them. At C2, tasks simulate professional/academic scenarios, like presenting a research proposal.

Choosing Between DELF and DALF

Here’s the big question: how do you know which to take?

1. Your Current Level

• If you’re beginner to intermediate (A1–B2): DELF is your path.
• If you’re advanced (C1/C2): DALF is for you.

Not sure of your level? Many students book a placement test or take a trial class with a tutor to identify where they stand.

2. Your Goals

• University:
  • Undergraduate → DELF B2.
  • Postgraduate → DALF C1 often required.
• Work:
  • Customer-facing or office role → DELF B1/B2 usually enough.
  • Academic/research/professional field → DALF C1/C2 expected.
• Immigration:
  • DELF B1 is sometimes the threshold for residency or citizenship in French-speaking countries.
• Personal challenge:
  • Some learners simply enjoy aiming higher. Passing DALF C2 is a mark of mastery.

3. Exam Style

• Prefer practical, everyday scenarios? → DELF.
• Comfortable with abstract debates and long essays? → DALF.

Which Is Harder?

• DELF B2 is challenging but achievable with 6–12 months of focused study if you’re around B1 level already.
• DALF C1/C2 is significantly harder, success usually requires several years of French study and regular immersion.

👉 In short: DELF is accessible to most learners. DALF is for those aiming at fluency.

Preparation Tips

For DELF

• Practise with past papers, the format repeats often.
• Learn functional phrases: writing emails, giving opinions, making complaints.
• Strengthen listening with French news (RFI, France Info).
• Simulate speaking exams with a tutor.

For DALF

• Read authentic French sources: Le Monde, academic journals, literature.
• Train writing essays under timed conditions.
• Build academic connectors: “toutefois, en revanche, par conséquent”.
• Practise oral presentations with feedback.

Online Preparation: Why It Works

Many students now choose online DELF/DALF preparation over in-person classes. Here’s why:

• Access to native tutors: No matter where you live.
• Flexibility: Book sessions around your schedule.
• Resources: Online tutors often share PDFs, recordings, and mock exams instantly.
• Simulation: You can practise oral exams on Zoom exactly as in real conditions.

At French-Exams.com, we offer both DELF preparation online and DALF tutoring with teachers experienced in exam success. Most students take a 10-hour bundle to build exam-specific strategies, then add more if aiming for top marks.

FAQs

Is DALF “better” than DELF?
Not exactly. DALF is higher level, but DELF is more appropriate if your level is B1–B2. Taking DALF before you’re ready is frustrating.

Can I skip DELF and go straight to DALF?
Yes, there’s no requirement to pass DELF first. You can register directly for DALF if you’re advanced enough.

How long does preparation take?

• DELF B2: 3–6 months with regular study if you’re at B1.
• DALF C1: 6–12+ months, depending on starting point.

Do universities accept DELF instead of DALF?
Most undergraduates accept DELF B2. Postgraduate courses may ask for DALF C1. Always check requirements.

Final Thoughts

Both DELF and DALF open doors. The choice depends on your level and your goals.

• Need proof of solid, functional French? → DELF.
• Want recognition of near-native ability? → DALF.

Either way, success depends on targeted preparation, not just “knowing French.” That’s why working with an experienced tutor can save months of trial and error.