FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to your most common questions
- How do I choose my French level?
We offer a free online French level test that follows international standards (A1–B2). In about 20–30 minutes, it evaluates your grammar, vocabulary, listening and reading skills. If you are C1–C2, you can benefit from a free individual assessment meeting with our teacher-examiner.
Based on your results, our academic team recommends the French course online that best fits your goals (general French, conversation, or exam preparation for DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF).
- Are your French classes individual or in groups?
At CECFQ, you can choose small-group French classes or private one-to-one lessons:
- Group courses: interactive classes where you practise speaking with other learners and progress together.
- Individual courses: 100% personalized French lessons adapted to your pace, objectives and schedule.
Many students combine both formats to prepare for Quebec life, work or immigration exams more efficiently.
- When do the French courses start and how often can I enroll?
New French sessions start every month.
Our schedule and calendar are updated regularly on the website, so you can join the next group at your level without waiting a full semester. If you prefer private lessons, start dates are very flexible and can be arranged directly with our team.
- Are French courses offered online, in person, or both?
For the moment, CECFQ offers live online French courses for adults. You can join our online French classes from anywhere in the province or abroad, with real teachers and small groups (not pre-recorded videos).
In-person French courses near Montréal (Longueuil) will be available soon. If you are interested in face-to-face French classes in Montreal, you can contact us to be added to the waiting list and we will notify you as soon as on-site groups open.
- How can I pay for my French course?
Payment for your French course at CECFQ is made securely online by credit card or Klarna.
All transactions are processed through encrypted, internationally compliant payment systems, which means your personal and banking information remains protected. If you need an invoice for your employer or organization, our team can provide it upon request.
- Will I receive a certificate for my French course?
Yes. For all French courses and conversation workshops at CECFQ, you receive a digital Certificate of Participation indicating your CEFR level (A1–C2) and hours completed. For certification programs (DELF/DALF preparation, TEF/TCF preparation, corporate French training), you receive an Official Certificate of Completion issued by CECFQ. (Note: exam diplomas for DELF/DALF/TEF/TCF are issued only by the official exam bodies.)
- Who are your teachers?
Our classes are taught by qualified, experienced FSL (FLE/FLS) teachers in Québec, who are also the certified examiners for TEF/TEFAQ, TCF, DELF, DALF. They specialize in adult learning, corporate French, and immigration-focused preparation, with mini-groups (4–6) and 1-on-1 coaching.
- Can I change my group or schedule?
Yes – subject to availability and academic approval. We offer flexible time slots (mornings, evenings, weekends) for our online French courses in Québec. If your level is mis-matched, our team can move you after a free placement test.
- What if I miss a class?
You won’t lose progress. Lesson resources (slides, assignments, instructions) are available in your student portal; recordings are provided where applicable. Options may include joining a parallel group, booking a short 1-on-1 catch-up, or messaging your teacher for guidance.
- Still have a question?
Write to us – our team answers quickly and will guide you to the right French course or exam prep (TEF/TCF/DELF-DALF) for your goals.
- Do I need a placement test before starting a French course?
In most cases, yes. Our French placement test helps us identify your current CEFR level (A1–C2) and recommend the right course for your goals. This is especially useful if you want to join a general French course, a conversation workshop, or prepare for an official exam such as TEF, TCF, DELF, or DALF. Starting at the right level saves time and helps you progress faster. The only exception is if you are a complete beginner starting from zero. In that case, you can usually begin directly in an A1 beginner French course without taking a placement test.
- Which French exam should I choose: TEF, TCF, DELF, or DALF?
The right exam depends on your objective. TEF / TEFAQ / TCF / TCF Québec / TCF Canada are often chosen for immigration, citizenship, or official language requirements. DELF / DALF are official diplomas that are widely used for studies, work, and long-term proof of French level. If you are not sure which exam fits your situation, our team can guide you after your placement test and suggest the most relevant exam preparation course.
- How long does it take to improve my French level?
It depends on your starting point, your goals, and how consistently you practise. With regular lessons and guided self-study, many adult learners see clear progress within a few weeks and can move up a level over time. Students preparing for TEF, TCF, DELF, or DALF usually progress faster when they combine structured classes, regular speaking practice, and teacher feedback. We help each learner follow a realistic study plan based on their schedule and target level.
- Do you offer French courses for immigration, work, and university goals?
Yes. Our French school offers programs adapted to different goals in Québec and Canada, including:
- French for immigration
- French for work and professional integration
- French for university admission and academic success
- General French courses for everyday life
- Official exam preparation: TEF, TCF, DELF, DALF
Each program is built to help you improve the skills that matter most for your situation: speaking, writing, comprehension, and confidence.
- Can I prepare for TEF, TCF, DELF, or DALF even if my French is not advanced yet?
Yes. You do not need to be advanced to start French exam preparation. Many learners begin preparing for TEF, TCF, DELF, or DALF while they are still at A2 or B1 level. The key is to combine exam-specific strategies with structured language improvement. At CECFQ, we help you build the right foundation first, then work on the exact skills and task types required for your exam — including speaking, writing, listening, and reading. This approach is especially useful for students and professionals in Québec who need to reach a target score within a realistic timeline.
