Table of Contents
- DALF C1 exam structure
- Knowledge needed for DALF C1 exam
- How to study for DALF exam
- Start studying today!
The CEFR divides language learners into three categories:
- Basic
- Independent
- Proficient
C1 French is the first level under the "Proficient User" category. At this level, users are more than spontaneous in their use of language. Some would even describe them as fluent. Not perfect, of course, but autonomous.
If your language skills have reached this level, you no doubt want some evidence to prove it! Enter the DALF C1 exam. Once you pass, you'll have a diploma that proves to the world you're fluent in French.
To do that though, you need to know how the exam works. Read on for our complete guide to the exam's structure and content, as well as how to study for it.
DALF C1 exam structure
The DALF C1 exam is 5 hours 30 minutes long, including prep time for the oral exam. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills will be tested.
Reading
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Points: 25 points
- Tasks: 1 exercise involving answering comprehension questionnaires on a 1500+ word passage
Writing
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Points: 25 points
- Tasks: 2 exercises involving writing a 220-240 word summary of a passage and an original 250+ word passage
Speaking
- Duration: 1 hour prep, 30 minute exam
- Points: 25 points
- Tasks: 2-part test including a monologue presentation and interactive exercise
Listening
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Points: 25 points
- Tasks: 2 exercises involving listening to recordings and completing comprehension questionnaires
To pass the DALF C1 exam, you need to score at least 50/100 points. You must also score at least 5/25 in each section.
Knowledge needed for DALF C1 exam
What practical standards should a C1 user be able to meet?
First, a C1 user has a solid foundation in knowing the rules of the language. To test whether you do, browse our C1 French grammar lessons. Check that you feel comfortable with all of the concepts listed.
More than that, a C1 French user can be classed as fluent. When reading, for example, that suggests you not only understand the text, but can draw out implicit meaning – reading between the lines.
How can you check whether you've achieved this level of understanding?
Try our free French CEFR test to figure out your current level!
How to study for DALF C1 exam
Passing the DALF C1 exam involves more than practical fluency. For example, just because you are fluent in conversation doesn't mean you can write a well-argued essay on current affairs.
To make sure you're prepared for all four sections, we've created an in-depth study guide for the exam! Check out our DALF C1 exam study guide now, full of study resources as well as tips for the exam itself.
Start studying with the best tools!
To not just practice your French, but improve it, you need tools that show you where you're going wrong. That's what we offer you!
Our free lessons and exercises point out your mistakes and show you how to correct them. Take advantage of our tools now so you're ready to smash the DALF C1 exam!
Check out our free C1 materials to get started. All you need to do is sign up for a free account!
