Your Questions, Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ page, where we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions about our French language programs. Whether you’re interested in group classes or private lessons, you’ll find helpful information to guide you in making the best choice for your learning journey.
French General classes FAQs
How long does it take to learn French?
It depends on your starting level and goals. From absolute zero to B1 (conversational), expect about 6 months with our French Transformation program (2 classes/week). From zero to CLB 7 (TEF/TCF exam ready for immigration), expect 12 months — 6 months of foundations + 6 months of exam prep. Students with prior French knowledge can reach CLB 7 faster. Read our full guide: How Long Does It Take to Learn French?
What is the "My French Transformation" program?
My French Transformation is our intensive 6-month group program that takes students from complete beginner (A0) to intermediate (B1+). It covers Levels 1-6, with 2 live classes per week (90 minutes each) taught by native French teachers from France and Quebec. Max 16 students per group. Available online and in-person in Vancouver.
What's the difference between each of the 6 levels?
‘My French Transformation‘ program is organized in 6 levels and aims to reach a B1+ level in 6 months.
- Level 1: Begin your French journey with this introductory course designed for absolute beginners. Learn essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and foundational conversation skills to help you greet, introduce yourself, and navigate simple interactions. Perfect for those with no prior knowledge of French.
- Level 2: Expand your foundational French skills by learning to navigate everyday situations and order at restaurants. This course focuses on practical conversations and essential grammar, helping you build confidence in interacting in various social contexts.
- Level 3: Advance your French by learning to discuss future plans and describe everyday situations in more detail. This course focuses on future tenses and practical applications, helping you confidently navigate conversations about travel, work, and leisure activities.
- Level 4:Enhance your fluency by learning to describe past events and personal experiences. This course emphasizes the use of past tenses, helping you confidently narrate stories, share memories, and discuss cultural habits.
- Level 5: This course covers conditional tenses and discussions on technology, music, and literature, enhancing your ability to communicate effectively on diverse topics.
- Level 6: Achieve fluency by mastering the subjunctive mood. This course helps you express wishes, doubts, and feelings, and use idiomatic expressions, making your French sound more natural.
You can join at any level based on your existing French. Take our free French Level Test to find your starting point.
How can I know which level to join?
If you have previously learned French and prefer to start the program at Level 2 or higher, we recommend taking a placement test or contacting us to determine the best starting point for you, ensuring you join the class that best matches your proficiency level.
What materials are provided, and are they included in the price?
All materials are included in the price — no extra costs. You’ll get access to presentations, PDFs, worksheets, homework assignments, and quizzes through our online platform. Full program students (Levels 1-6) also get 1-year access to 50+ hours of prerecorded video lessons for self-study.
How often do the group classes meet, and what is the class duration?
Group classes meet twice per week, with each session lasting 90 minutes. That’s 3 hours of live instruction per week, plus homework and platform access for self-study. Over 6 months, that’s 72+ hours of live classes.
What is the maximum number of students per group class?
Maximum 16 students per group. This ensures everyone gets speaking time and personalized attention from the teacher. Unlike large language schools with 30+ students, our small groups mean you actually practice speaking — not just listening.
Are classes available online and in-person?
Yes, both. In-person classes are held at our Vancouver location (319 W Hastings St #400). Online classes are via Zoom with cameras on — fully interactive, not passive watching. The curriculum, teachers, and group size are identical for both formats.
What happens if my class falls on a statutory holiday?
No live classes on statutory holidays. Instead, you’ll have access to self-study materials on our online platform to keep your momentum going. The missed class time is built into the program schedule.
What happens if I miss a class?
All classes are recorded. If you miss a session, you can watch the recording on our online platform and catch up at your own pace. Teachers are also available to answer questions about content you missed.
🍁 Immigration & CLB
What is CLB 7 and why does it matter for immigration?
CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) is Canada’s official language proficiency scale. CLB 7 corresponds to CEFR B2 level and is the target for most Express Entry candidates because it unlocks up to 50 bonus CRS points through the bilingualism bonus. It also qualifies you for French-specific Express Entry draws with lower CRS cutoffs. Read our full guide: What Is CLB 7 in French?
How many CRS points can I get for learning French?
Up to 50 additional CRS points if you achieve CLB 7+ in all four French skills AND have CLB 5+ in English. Even CLB 5-6 in French adds 4 points. Beyond points, French speakers qualify for dedicated Express Entry draws with significantly lower cutoffs. Details: How to Get 50 Express Entry Points with French
Can I use IELTS to prove my French for immigration?
No. IELTS only measures English proficiency. To prove French, you must take either the TEF Canada or TCF Canada — these are the only two French exams accepted by IRCC for immigration purposes.
How long does it take to go from zero French to CLB 7?
12 months minimum with structured study: 6 months of French foundations (our French Transformation program, Levels 1-6) followed by 6 months of TEF/TCF exam preparation. Students who already have B1-level French can reach CLB 7 in 3-6 months of focused exam prep. Our TEF for Beginners (12-month program) bundles both phases into one path.
📝 TEF/TCF Preparation
What are the TEF and TCF exams?
The TEF Canada (Test d’Évaluation de Français) and TCF Canada (Test de Connaissance du Français) are official French proficiency exams accepted by IRCC for Canadian immigration. Both test four skills — listening, reading, writing, and speaking — and results are valid for 2 years. Scores are converted to CLB levels for immigration applications.
Which exam should I choose: TEF Canada or TCF Canada?
Both are equally accepted by IRCC. The main differences: TEF gives you 1 minute of preparation time before speaking sections and has more listening questions. TCF uses progressive difficulty (easy→hard) and a face-to-face speaking format with zero prep time. Our program prepares you for both — you can decide closer to your exam date. Read our comparison: TEF vs TCF: Which Should You Choose?
Is TEF preparation different from TCF preparation?
No. The underlying French skills required are identical — the exams just have different formats. Our TEF/TCF Prep program prepares you for both exams simultaneously. The format-specific strategies are learned in the final weeks before your test date.
How long does it take to prepare for the TEF or TCF exam?
It depends on your starting level:
- Complete beginner (A0): 12 months (6mo foundations + 6mo exam prep)
- Basic French (A2): 8-9 months
- Intermediate (B1): 3-6 months of focused exam prep
Do I need to speak French before starting the program?
No prior French is required. If you’re starting from zero, begin with our French Transformation program (6 months, Levels 1-6) to build your foundations. Then continue into TEF/TCF Prep. Or enroll in our TEF for Beginners (12-month) program which bundles both into one path.
How do I register for the TEF or TCF exam in Vancouver?
We are not an exam centre. To register for the TEF or TCF in Vancouver:
- TEF Canada: Register through an authorized centre — visit lefrancaisdesaffaires.fr
- TCF Canada: Register through an authorized centre — visit France Éducation International
We recommend booking your exam date 2-3 months in advance as spots fill quickly.
Still Have Questions About TEF/TCF?
Contact us, call us/Whatsapp at +1-778-800-5592, or join our free weekly Q&A session
👤 Private French Lessons
How do you customize private lessons?
Every private lesson plan is tailored to your goals — whether that’s general French, TEF/TCF exam prep, conversation practice, business French, or helping your kids learn. Your teacher assesses your current level and builds a personalized curriculum. Visit our Private Classes page for details.
How flexible is the scheduling for private lessons?
Fully flexible. You choose the days and times that work for your schedule. We recommend at least 2 sessions per week for consistent progress, but there’s no mandatory minimum. Sessions can be online or in-person in Vancouver.
Do I need to sign up for a minimum number of lessons?
While we recommend a minimum of 2 French classes per week to achieve significant progress, there is no mandatory minimum. You can choose between 1, 4, 8, and 12 classes of 60 or 90 minutes each.
What is the cost of private lessons?
The cost varies depending on the duration and frequency of the lessons. We provide detailed pricing on our Private French Classes page.
Are the private lesson materials included in the price?
Yes, all necessary materials are included. This includes textbooks, workbooks, and any additional resources tailored to your specific needs.
What is the cancellation policy for private lessons?
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your scheduled session, you’ll be charged for the class. This ensures our teachers can plan their schedules effectively.
📋 Policies & Enrollment
What is the cancellation/refund policy for group classes?
Due to our small-group format (max 16 students), all group class registrations are final. If you cancel more than 7 business days before the program starts, you’ll receive a credit for a future session. Cancellations within 7 business days of the start date are non-refundable. Once the program begins, no refunds are provided. Full details: Terms and Conditions
How do I enroll?
Visit the page for your chosen program, select your preferred schedule (online or in-person, time slot), and complete the registration form. If you’re not sure which program is right for you, join our free Thursday Masterclass or call us/WhatsApp at +1 778-800-5592.
Not Sure Where to Start With TEF or TCF?
Have questions about the TEF, TCF exam, or our French courses? Join our next live Q&A session (Every Thursday from 6 to 7 PM PST). Get all your questions answered directly by our experienced instructors. Fill out the form and receive the link to join.
