What are the DILF, DELF and DALF exams?
The DILF, DELF and DALF certifications: what are they and who are they for?
A lot of centers where French classes for non-French speakers (see our French classes guide) are taught often offer preparation for the DILF, DELF and DALF exams. These are all certifications made to confirm and prove one has acquired a certain level in the French language.
They are made for all ages and all types of public.
DILF
The DILF (Diplôme Initial de Langue Française or « Initial French Language Diploma ») is an exam made to evaluate the very first, basic notions of French: it’s for those who have an A1.1 level. It’s more of a stepping stone towards the DELF and DALF exams.
DELF
The DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française or « French Language Studies Diploma ») can be organized in different categories: the DELF for all publics (adults, levels A1 to B2), DELF Prim (children between the ages of 7 and 12, A1.1 to A2 levels), the DELF junior or scholar (adolescents from 12 to 17 years old, levels A1 to B2) and the DELF pro (for those looking for a job or a promotion in a professional French environment, A1 to B2).
DALF
The DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française or « Thorough French Language Diploma ») is a certification for adults in the professional or academic field who have acquired advanced notions in French, with language levels from C1 to C2.
All of these diplomas are given by the Ministry of National Education and do not have a time limit.
They are all based on the 6 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and judge the 4 categories of language proficiency, thanks to psychometrists who are experts in evaluation.
This type of certification, which takes place in over 1 2000 exam centers throughout 175 countries, is recognized all over the world and is often used by education ministries abroad.
Where to prepare these French language certifications in Lyon?