What is the DALF?
The Diplôme approfondi en Langue Française – advanced diploma in French language or DALF – is an official diploma recognized both in France and internationally, assessing linguistic skills in French. Issued by the Ministry of National Education, the DALF consists of 2 independent diplomas, DALF C1 and DALF C2 corresponding to the last two levels of the European Framework of Reference for Languages. The DALF addresses advanced learners in French language who wish to officially justify their mastery of language, whether in France or in any other French-speaking country.
Diploma’s objectives
The main objective of the DALF is to assess the language skills of foreign candidates. The exam one should pass to obtain this diploma will accurately evaluate the candidate’s aptitudes in essential areas such as oral and written comprehension, expression, grammar and syntax, conjugation and spelling. Etc.
The DALF is of great help to students who wish to pursue higher education in France or in another French-speaking country: indeed, many universities require a sufficient level of French language in their conditions of admission. If you want to be successful in your college studies, you will of course need to be able to follow lectures, tutorials and other conferences; as an international student, the DALF might help you develop the required skills;
The DALF exam
Because it attests to an advanced mastery of the French language, the DALF involves demanding written and oral assessments. The tests are therefore focusing on written comprehension and written expression, grammar, spelling, syntax and conjugation. The tests specific to the DALF C1 include the writing of a summary note using several documents, and the writing of a small essay. The oral tests consist of a presentation based on several written documents followed by a discussion with the jury, the level being different depending on whether you are at level C1 or C2. The DALF exam takes place in approved schools and examination centers, such as the Cours de Civilisation Française de La Sorbonne. The CCFS offers students and candidates several sessions throughout the year, as well as intensive French language courses. French language courses at CCFS can be taken within the establishment or through online courses.
