DELF & DALF Exam Guide 2025: Levels, Format, Fees, Registration & Preparation

If you’re learning French seriously, sooner or later you’ll hear about DELF and DALF. These are the official diplomas issued by the French Ministry of Education to certify your language skills. Recognized worldwide, they open doors for study, work, immigration, and career opportunities.

This guide explains everything you need to know in 2025: exam levels, structure, costs, registration process in India and abroad, and the best ways to prepare.

What are DELF & DALF?

• DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) covers levels A1 to B2 (beginner to upper-intermediate).

• DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) covers levels C1 and C2 (advanced and mastery).

• Both follow the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

• The diplomas are valid for life: no renewal is needed.

• Variants exist: DELF Prim (children), DELF Junior (teens), DELF Pro (professional contexts), but all lead to the same official diploma.

Levels & Exam Format

Each exam has four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. All four skills are scored separately, and you need both a minimum score in each part and an overall pass mark.

Important: Written tests (listening, reading, writing) are held on fixed national dates. The oral exam is usually scheduled the same day or within the same week, depending on the exam center. In India, in many centers, the entire exam (all 4 modules) are held on the same date with a break in between.

Scoring & Passing Marks

The DELF and DALF exams are scored out of 100 points in total. Each of the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, is marked out of 25 points.

Minimum required to pass:

• 50/100 overall

• At least 5/25 in each skill

This means even if you are strong in some areas, you cannot afford to completely neglect any one section. For example:

• If you score 60 overall but only 3 in writing, you will not pass.

• A balanced preparation across all four skills is essential.

Your results come in two forms:

• Attestation of success (temporary marksheet): issued within ~2 months of the exam.

• Official diploma: issued by the French Ministry of Education, usually 3 to 4 months later.

The diploma is valid for life and cannot be withdrawn once earned.

Exam Sessions in 2025

In India

• Four nationwide sessions: March, June, September, December.

• Written exam dates are fixed across all centres, while oral exams may be scheduled by each centre individually.

• Example dates for 2025:

• March: 24 to 28

• June: 16 to 20

• September: 15 to 19

• December: 8 to 12

Abroad

• Sessions vary by country and centre. Many Alliances Françaises abroad organize exams 2 to 4 times a year (e.g. March, June, October, December). Some countries have exams conducted more often, which can be verified either on their website or by reaching out to them via email/ call.

• Always check the website of the local Alliance Française or official exam centre in your city.

Exam Fees

India (2025 National Rates)

(Internal = students of that AF, External = others)

Abroad (examples)

• Europe: €115 to 200 depending on level and country.

• USA: $135 to 245 depending on level and centre.

Tip: Fees vary slightly worldwide. Always check your exam centre’s official page for exact rates.

Registration Process

In India

1. Visit your nearest Alliance Française website.

2. Check the exam calendar and registration window.

3. Fill the online form with your details and desired level.

4. Upload a valid ID, photo, and past candidate number (if retaking).

5. Pay the fee online (credit card, net banking, UPI depending on centre).

6. Receive your confirmation slip / admit card.

7. Sit for the exam on the scheduled dates.

8. Collect your attestation of results (usually within 2 months) and the final diploma (around 4 months).

Abroad

• The process is similar: registration via the local Alliance Française or authorized centre, payment, confirmation, exam, results, and diploma.

• Oral exams may be held on different dates within the exam week.

Preparation Tips

1. Know the format: Practice with sample papers to get used to timing and structure.

2. Strengthen weak skills: Don’t just focus on listening or speaking, writing and reading carry equal weight.

3. Immerse yourself: Listen to French radio, watch French TV, read newspapers and blogs.

4. Practice timed tasks: Simulate the exam environment for endurance and time management.

5. Work with a coach: Guidance from a trainer or prep class can save months of effort.

6. Expand vocabulary: Especially for B1 to C2, learn to argue, debate, and present opinions.

7. Mock orals: Practice speaking on everyday and global topics. Record yourself and improve fluency.

8. Stay exam-smart: Read instructions carefully, manage time, and structure written answers logically.

FAQs

Do I need to take exams in order (A1 → A2 → B1)?
No. You can directly register for the level you want.

Do the diplomas expire?
No, they are valid for life.

Can I retake only one section if I fail?
No. You must retake the entire exam.

Can I use DELF / DALF for university or immigration?
Yes. Many universities require B2 or higher. For immigration, DELF/DALF can strengthen your profile, though Canada specifically accepts TEF/TCF Canada.

And finally,

Whether you are aiming for higher studies, career growth, or personal achievement, DELF and DALF are gold-standard certifications of French proficiency. They are recognized internationally, respected by universities and employers, and once obtained, they last for life.

If you’re serious about preparing efficiently, structured coaching makes a big difference. At LingoRelic Language Academy, we help learners target DELF/DALF with smart strategies, practice resources, and personalized feedback. WhatsApp us at +91-9056131830 to inquire.