The 17 most-asked TCF Canada candidate questions, organized into three categories: Exam Essentials (cost, sections, validity, scoring, retake policy, format, results timeline), Preparation Strategy (NCLC 7 timeline, TCF vs TEF, common point losses, NCLC conversion, practice modes), and Platform & Pricing (free tier limits, Pro pricing, question authenticity, AI examiner, mobile support). Each answer matches the SPA visible content verbatim.
Typically CAD $390–$400, varies by test center. No refunds or deferrals once registered. Contact your local center to confirm current pricing.
4 mandatory sections: listening (35 min, 39 questions), reading (60 min, 39 questions), writing (60 min, 3 tasks), speaking (12 min, 3 tasks). All completed on the same day.
2 years from the test date. You must retake the exam after that.
There is no universal passing score. Express Entry typically requires NCLC 7 minimum in all skills; some provincial programs require NCLC 4–5. Your final NCLC level = your lowest score across the four skills.
Unlimited retakes, with at least 20–30 days between attempts. Full payment required each time. You can submit your best result.
In-person only, not available online. Listening and reading are typically computer-based; writing and speaking depend on the center. Confirm the format in advance.
Electronic results (PDF) are typically emailed 4–6 weeks after the exam; paper certificates take longer to arrive. If you need them for Express Entry or a PR application, plan to sit the exam at least 3 months before your submission deadline to leave buffer for scoring, delivery, and filing.
Typically 6–12 months of structured study. With a B1 foundation, focused prep for 1–2 months can get you there. Consistency is key.
Both are accepted by IRCC. TCF has progressive difficulty (good for steady learners), TEF gives faster results (~2 weeks). Stronger in reading → TCF. Stronger in listening → TEF.
Listening: must catch key info on the first play. Speaking: manage time, stay on topic. Writing: logical structure matters more than vocabulary.
NCLC is Canada's official French proficiency scale (levels 1–12). Each skill is converted separately, e.g., listening 458–502 = NCLC 7. See our NCLC score guide for the full table.
Practice reviews each question instantly — great for daily learning. Mock test simulates real exam conditions (countdown, no going back) — ideal for final prep. Start with practice, switch to mock 1–2 weeks before the exam.
3 full reading + 3 full listening sets (234 questions total) with AI analysis, plus 6 speaking and 6 writing sessions, and the mistake book. Enough to assess your level and the platform.
One-time purchase, no auto-renewal: $19.9 (30 days) / $29.9 (60 days) / $39.9 (90 days). After expiry, you revert to the free plan — all progress and mistake book kept permanently. Renewals stack on remaining days.
Not official questions, but vocabulary, question types, and scoring align with TCF Canada standards (A1–C2). 43 complete sets are enough to master the exam rhythm.
Claire simulates all 3 oral tasks with real-time conversation, follow-up questions, and pronunciation feedback. The advantage: available 24/7, no nerves, unlimited retries.
Yes. tcfcanada.ai is fully responsive — open it in your mobile browser and everything works, including speaking and writing.