Comparison
TEF vs TCF Canada: which test should you take?
Both tests are accepted by IRCC and both report results on the NCLC scale. The right choice depends on format, availability and your strengths.
Overview
Side by side
| TEF Canada | TCF Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted by IRCC | Yes | Yes |
| Result scale | NCLC levels per skill | NCLC levels per skill |
| Listening / reading | Scored out of 699 | Scored out of 699, questions get harder |
| Writing | 2 tasks, scored out of 699 | 3 tasks, scored out of 20 |
| Speaking | 2 role-play tasks | 3 tasks incl. interview and opinion |
| NCLC 7 writing | 428+ | 10+ |
| NCLC 7 speaking | 456+ | 10+ |
| Express Entry entry | Use the Équivalence ancien score column | Enter scores as shown |
| Validity for IRCC | 2 years | 2 years |
Choose TEF Canada if
- Test dates near you are easier to find
- You do well with two longer speaking role-plays
- You prefer two writing tasks over three
Choose TCF Canada if
- You like questions that build in difficulty
- You write concise texts and manage word counts well
- You are comfortable with a short interview-style speaking test
Still unsure?
Many learners decide after a diagnostic. We assess your listening, reading, writing and speaking, then recommend the test that plays to your strengths.
Not sure which class fits?
Book a free 20-minute level check over video. We place you on the CLB path, suggest a group or private plan, and give you a realistic timeline to your target score.