Introduction
Are you preparing for a French language proficiency test? Gaining a preliminary understanding of the context and purpose of your exam will certainly help get you started. In general, the TCF Canada or Test de Connaissance du Français is suitable for anyone who wants to initiate the immigration process to Canada, regardless of their nationality or native language. The TCF Quebecor Test de connaissance du français pour le Québec is similarly appropriate if you are looking to immigrate specifically to the province of Quebec. If you are a native speaker then you are probably feeling quite confident about demonstrating your proficiency. If you have picked up French as a second or third language, then you may be wondering how you can best prepare yourself for the exam. There are a number of steps you can take to improve your confidence and really immerse yourself in the French language, before taking your exam. By preparing yourself now, you can reduce your exam stress and increase your chances of success.
Immersing Yourself in the Language
One of the most important things that you can do to help yourself before a language proficiency test is to completely immerse yourself in the language. This may sound simple if you are already living in a place where French is spoken regularly in your daily life. However, if you are multilingual then you may have another language that you speak on a daily basis. Immersing yourself in French will help immensely as you prepare for your language proficiency test. So where do you start? Ask yourself, what do you love most about French culture? Are you fascinating by the cuisine? If your answer is yes, then why not try watching some French cooking shows online or browsing a French cookbook? Combining your leisure time with casual studying is a great way to maximize comfort with any language.
Simple Tips for Language Immersion
The most important thing about preparing for a language proficiency test is that you focus on communication and comprehension. Here are some basic activities which you can add to your daily routine, in order to increase your accuracy and understanding:
- Listen to French podcasts
- Watch your favourite television shows in French; remember to have the French subtitles turned on so that you can follow along with your eyes and ears
- Read French leisure magazines about a subject that fascinates you
- Listen to French Candian radio broadcasts
- Change the language settings on your phone, tablet or computer so that all your menus and options are in written French
- Listening to meditations in French, right before you fall asleep
Educators recommend immersion as the number one thing that you can do to build your confidence and language proficiency. Doing any of these simple recommendations will help you to broaden your vocabulary, while also having fun and feeding your curiosity about the world. What other language tips or recommendations can you think of?
Taking your exam
When you feel ready to take your French language proficiency exam, you will need to find a TCF Canada of TCF Quebec test centre. The good news is that you will not have far to look. You can book one easily online through Ashton Testing Services, ATS. TCF Canada exam sessions are typically run twice per month on Wednesday evenings or Sunday afternoons. Exam availability for the TCF Quebec varies throughout the month, so be sure to check the Ashton Testing Services website for upcoming exam dates.
