Does DELF have an expiry?

No. DELF and DALF diplomas have lifetime validity. A B2 you pass at 22 still counts at 45.

Can I jump straight to DELF B2 without taking A1, A2 and B1?

Yes. Each DELF level is an independent diploma. You can register directly at the level you want, no prior certification required.

Is DELF or DALF more recognised in France?

Both come from the same authority and carry the same official weight. DALF (C1, C2) is for advanced candidates and is rarely required for naturalisation. DELF B2 is the workhorse: the threshold for naturalisation and most Master's programmes.

DELF

A diploma that follows you for life.

Where the TCF places you on a moving scale that expires in two years, the DELF certifies you at a fixed level you keep forever. Four independent diplomas (A1, A2, B1, B2) covering the working range for most Indians moving to France.

The four DELF levels

Each level is an independent diploma. Walk down the ladder if you want to build credentials, or jump straight to the level you need.

DELF A1

Elementary user

Around 1h20 plus 10 min preparation for speaking

Entry point for adults beginning French
Not on its own a residency or naturalisation document, but a recognised proof of effort

DELF A2

Elementary user

Around 1h40 plus preparation time

A2 was the historical threshold for the carte de séjour pluriannuelle before the 2024 immigration law tightened it
Useful for entry level employment and most service interactions

DELF B1

Independent user

Around 1h55 plus 10 min preparation

Required level for the carte de résident de longue durée UE since the 2024 immigration reform
Common minimum for skilled employment and most administrative interactions

DELF B2

Independent user

Around 2h30 plus 30 min preparation

Required level for French naturalisation under Décret n° 2025-648 and Arrêté du 22 décembre 2025
Standard entry threshold for French taught Master's programmes
Often required for skilled professional roles in French companies

Need C1 or C2? Look at the DALF.

DALF C1 and DALF C2 are the proficient user diplomas. Most Indians moving to France will never need them, but they are useful for grandes écoles, doctoral programmes and senior translation roles.

Read the official DALF page

Go deeper

Eligibility

Age, prior level, ID

Syllabus

Sections and scoring by level

Fees

What you pay by level in India

Frequently asked questions

Answers anchored in the published rules from France Éducation International and the French government.

Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française. It is a formal French diploma awarded by the Ministère de l'Éducation Nationale through France Éducation International.

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