What Is Assessed in EFI?

EFI evaluates five core language skills to provide a complete picture of a candidate's French proficiency. Each skill is designed to test real-world language use and communication ability.

These five skills are aligned with CEFR standards and assessed with age-appropriate formats depending on the candidate’s level (Mini, Jeune, or Universitaire/Adulte).

Exam Format

EFI follows a hybrid exam model to ensure accessibility, flexibility, and a well-rounded evaluation process. The exam is conducted in two parts:

Online Exam

Conducted from home.
Includes: Listening, Reading, Grammar & Vocabulary
Delivered through a secure online platform with easy navigation and clear instructions

On-site Exam

Conducted at designated EFI test centres.
Includes: Writing and Speaking.
Candidates must appear in person for these components along with the necessary documents. (admit card, id proof etc)

Note:
To be evaluated, candidates must complete both the online and the on-site components. Missing any part will result in disqualification from evaluation.

Scoring & Weightage

How Scoring Works in EFI?

Each of the five language skills is weighted equally, ensuring a balanced evaluation process.

The marks are based on performance indicators aligned with CEFR descriptors such as accuracy, fluency, clarity, comprehension, and interaction. At the end of the process, candidates receive a total score out of 100.

Grading Scale & Result Criteria

EFI Passing Criteria and Level Awarding Policy

EFI assessments are divided into two independent components, each carrying equal weight in determining the final level awarded:

1. Online Examination

Reading
Listening
Grammar & Vocabulary

2. On-site Examination

Writing
Speaking

To maintain fairness and CEFR-aligned competence standards, EFI applies the following criteria:

1. Level Achievement Criteria For A1, A2, B1, B2, etc. (Niveau Officiel)

A candidate is awarded the level they have applied for only if:

They obtain 50% or above in BOTH examinations:

Online exam: ≥ 50%
Offline exam: ≥ 50%

This rule ensures balanced proficiency across comprehension and production skills.

2. Awarding of Level A1.1 / A2.1 / B1.1 - Bridge Levels (Niveau Passerelle)

If a candidate’s score falls between 39% and 49% in either the online or offline exam, the candidate will be awarded the bridge level immediately below the target level:

Target A1 → Awarded A1.1
Target A2 → Awarded A2.1
Target B1 → Awarded B1.1
Target B2 → Awarded B2.1

This applies in two situations:

Candidate scores 39–49% in one or both exams.
Candidate scores 50% or above in one exam but not in the other.
- Example: Online ≥50% but Offline <50% → Awarded A1.1
- Example: Offline ≥50% but Online <50% → Awarded A1.1

The candidate is recognized for partial attainment of the level but has not yet achieved balanced competence across all CEFR skills.

3. Below 39% – Emerging Levels (Niveau Émergent)

EFI does not operate a failure policy.

However, for candidates who score below 39% in either the online or offline exam, EFI will award an Attestation de Niveau Émergent.

This attestation indicates that the candidate has demonstrated emerging French language skills but has not yet reached the bridge level required for the CEFR tier applied for. It recognises early foundational competence and confirms that the learner is progressing towards A1.1, even though this level has not yet been attained.

Summary Table

Important Note:

You must appear for both the online and on-site components in order to be evaluated.