Get to know the DELF French certificate
DELF is a French language certificate awarded by the French Ministry of Education. It is recognised worldwide and valid for life.
What is DELF?
DELF stands for Diplôme d'études en langue française (Diploma in French Studies). It is awarded by the French Ministry of Education, and the exams are coordinated by France Éducation international.
DELF levels follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Each level is a separate exam, so candidates can choose the one that matches their ability. Certificates are valid for life and never need renewing.
Why a DELF certificate?
- Awarded by the French Ministry of Education and recognised internationally
- Valid for life
- Can be used for HKDSE French
- Proof of language ability for school applications and personal portfolios
Versions for children and teens
DELF has versions designed for school students, with topics suited to their age. The certificate awarded is the same as the adult version.
DELF Prim
For primary pupils, with topics about school, family and everyday life.
DELF Junior
For secondary students, with topics that reflect teenagers' interests and lives.
Levels
Here is what candidates can generally do at each DELF level, with approximate study hours needed when starting from zero.
Beginner
- Understand and use common everyday words and simple sentences to express specific needs
- Introduce themselves and others, and ask and answer questions about personal details
- Have a simple conversation if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help
Approx. study hours: up to 120
Elementary
- Independently understand and use common phrases in everyday situations
- Chat about familiar topics in simple everyday situations
- Describe their experiences, surroundings and basic needs in simple terms
Approx. study hours: 120–270
Intermediate
- Express themselves in clear, standard French
- Understand and discuss the main points of familiar topics such as school, work and leisure
- Handle most situations that may arise while travelling in French-speaking areas
Approx. study hours: 270–450
Upper intermediate
- Grasp the main ideas of complex texts on concrete or abstract topics
- Follow discussions in their own field of expertise
- Talk with native French speakers naturally and fluently, without strain on either side
Approx. study hours: 450–630
DELF Prim also offers an A1.1 level, which is easier than A1 and suits primary pupils who have just started learning French.
Exam papers
Every level tests four skills, each worth 25 points, for a total of 100.
Listening
Compréhension de l'oral
Listen to recordings and answer questions
Reading
Compréhension des écrits
Read short texts and answer questions
Writing
Production écrite
Write a short text or letter on a given topic
Speaking
Production orale
A face-to-face conversation with an examiner
The pass mark is 50 points overall, with at least 5 points in each skill.
DELF & HKDSE French
HKDSE Category C French uses DELF results. Find out the minimum requirement, how long results are valid, exam dates and JUPAS score conversion.
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