TFI^™ test

The TFI test is a paper-and-pencil, multiple-choice assessment which takes approximately two and a half hours. The test consists of two-timed sections with 90 items each. You will have 42 minutes to complete the Listening Comprehension section and 68 minutes for the Reading Comprehension section.

Approximately 30 minutes at the beginning of the test will be dedicated to answering biographical questions. The test does not require any specialised knowledge or vocabulary beyond that of someone who uses French in everyday life and for work.

The TFI assessment is divided into two sections:

• Part I – Listening Comprehension: Test takers listen to a variety of questions and answers, short dialogues and talks recorded in French, and answer questions based on what they’ve heard. This section has three parts: questions, dialogues and conversations.
• Part II – Reading Comprehension: Test takers read a variety of materials and answer questions based on what they’ve read. This section has three parts: error identification, incomplete sentences and reading comprehension.

Scores on the TFI test indicate how well people can communicate in French for business, commerce and industry. The score for each section is determined by the number of correct answers, which is then converted to a scaled score between 5-495 points. This score is mapped to an equivalent level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The score report provides Listening, Reading and total scaled scores.

Listening and Reading test scores are scaled from 5-495, making the minimum total score 10 and the maximum 990. These three test scores are correlated with CEFR levels A2 to C1.

Score Reports for Test Takers

When test-takers participate in an ETS Global Test Center and take the TFI test independently, they receive a score report directly from ETS Global. The score report lists their Listening, Reading and total scores in a simple, easy-to-understand format.

Score Report for employers and academic institutions

When test-takers participate in the TFI test, administered by their employers, universities or language schools, ETS Global or a local ETS Preferred Network office will score it. Results are reported in a score roster made available to the test taker's employer or school.

Score Roster

Intended for internal use only, the score roster includes the complete results per test session. The roster includes:

• Individual scores (Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension, total scores)
• Information on session scores (average score, frequency distribution and range of scores)
• Scores from all testing sessions within the same institution
• Scores from within the client's industry and country
• Specialised reports that can be reproduced at the client’s request, which include organisational results for all test takers during a given time period or in certain job categories

Certificate of Achievement

In addition to the Score Report, test takers can order a Certificate of Achievement. The certificate lists Listening, Reading and total scores for individual test takers and serves as a credential for job applicants. These certificates are only available for test sessions that are operated and proctored by an ETS Global Preferred Network Office.

On the day of the test, you will need to bring a valid identification (ID) with your name and signature, as well as two pencils with erasers. Please note that you are not allowed to keep your personal belongings with you while taking the test; they may be left in a locker if one is provided by the test centre.

As with any test, it’s important to study beforehand. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you not study on test day. Being well rested and relaxed on the day of the test is as important as studying and practicing your language skills before the test. Here are some key things you can do to prepare for test day:

• Dress comfortably for any room temperature
• Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the test centre
• Get directions to the test centre beforehand