Written by Gabriela Estrada

If you plan to study, work or emigrate to Canada, even if you plan to move to other English or French speaking countries, you will need to prove your language proficiency with an international exam. But there is a wide variety of such exams, Which one should you choose, and which one would be right for your purpose?

In this blog, you will discover the most recommended international exams and you will know which one to choose according to your goals. In addition, I will give you some strategies that will help you get a better score better score. Read with me to the end and take advantage of this valuable information - let's get started!

Why is it necessary to certify the language?

It is necessary to certify the language because the test serves as an official validator. official validator of your level of proficiency in English or French. This certificate is a prerequisite for governments and academic institutions. It functions as a key that opens doors to immigration processes, job opportunities and studies abroad, demonstrating in a standardized and reliable way your ability to communicate.

The most common and most approved tests for immigration purposes in English are the IELTS Generalthe CELPIP General and the PTE Coreand for Frenchare the TEF and the TCF. In addition, there are the DELF andthe DALFwhich are lifetime diplomas used mainly for academic purposes. academic purposes and to certify a more more advanced level.

Differences between international English exams

The English tests accepted for immigration or academic processes have similarities, but also important differences that can influence the performance and the most appropriate choice according to the objective. The oral sectionfor example, is often the most challenging biggest challengeand its format varies significantly from test to test.

Which international English test to choose for your process: immigration or academic?

Choosing the right exam is not just a matter of availability or price. It is key to to understand how each test worksIt is key to understand how each test works, what format it has and, above all, how it suits your skills, your comfort and your objective. Here we explain it to you in a clear and straightforward way.

First, define your objective

• For migration to Canada, the tests most commonly accepted by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) are:
 

• CELPIP General

• IELTS General

• PTE Core (recently approved)
• For study abroad or professional recognition:
 

• IELTS Academic

• Academic PTE

• Duolingo English Test (accepted by many institutions since the pandemic)

Are you uncomfortable speaking in front of someone? This matters a lot

The oral section is the great filter for many candidates. If you struggle to express yourself fluently or get blocked when speaking to someone, avoid the IELTS. Instead, CELPIP and PTE Core allow you to record your answers, which reduces stress.

Key aspects to make the right choice

• If there is difficulty in expressing oneself fluently fluency in front of other peopleavoid tests with direct interaction direct interaction.
• There are free simulators that you can locate and allow you to familiarize yourself with the format.
• In the PTE Core, artificial intelligence artificial intelligence plays a predominant role, which can influence influence the preparedness strategy.
• Each exam serves a different purpose: migration, studies, professional accreditation, and must be chosen according to this objective.

There is no universally superior test. The best choice will be the one that fits your language profile, your comfort level with the format and the objective of the process. 

Differences between international French exams

The most widely recognized French exams are: TEF, TCF, DELF y DALF and each serves a different purpose. Some are designed for migratory processes, others for studies, and some to validate academic or professional skills. Knowing their differences allows you to choose the most appropriate one according to your objective.

Diplomas vs. proof of immigration

• DELF y DALF are official diplomas of the French Ministry of Education. They focus on certifying language proficiency for academic or professional purposes.
• TEF y TCFare more commonly used in immigration processes, especially to apply for residency, citizenship or visas.

TEF vs. TCF: Which is better for migration?

Both are accepted, but present differences differences important differences in their structure:

The TCF offers more opportunities to demonstrate communication skillsas it includes three tasks in the sections of oral and written expression. The candidate is expected to be able to argue, give opinions and obtain information. This makes it a more complete and, for many, more accessible option.

The TEFon the other hand, has a more academic more academic approach and usually requires an intermediate-advanced level (B2). Although it is also accepted in migratory processes, it is especially common in study applications.

Which one to choose depending on the objective?

• For French residency or nationalitythe TCF is usually more flexible and complete.
• For higher education or processes that require a higher level of language proficiency, the TEF is more appropriate.
• For academic or professional validationdiplomas, the DELF y DALF are the most internationally recognized.

Strategies for obtaining higher test scores

Preparation for a language test must go beyond theory classes. The key to a high score is total exposure to the total exposure to the language.

It is crucial that you bring the language into your daily life:

• Put your cell phone in the language you are learning.
• Listen to podcasts and music in the language, concentrating on understanding the thread of the understanding the thread of the conversation.
• Watch series and movies with subtitles in the original language.
• Read everything at your fingertipsfrom news and technology articles to product labels.

Meet the experts at Planeta Immiland Education

The information and knowledge you have just read comes directly from the experience of our English and French coordinators. experience of our English and French coordinators: Aura Maria Espacio and Edwar Manjarrezrespectively. They have lived through the immigration process and have mastered the language tests.

Both of them have been in charge of designing the best methodology for the preparation courses for the international and have focused on strategies for the management of the formats and objectives of each student.

If you want to to prepare for your language exam with a good chance of success, contact us at and we will be happy to help you with whatever you need.

I invite you to watch the full podcast on this topic at Don't waste time and money! The right test for your goal in Canada.

Thank you very much for reading, see you in the next blog!

With love, 

Planet Immiland