As the founder of Test Your French, I am very much aware of all the questions you might have about the B1 French test! In my experience, it’s best to prepare as much as you can.
All the pictures in this article are from my personal collection.
Read on and get ready like nobody else!
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Table of Contents
Definition of the B1 French test
The B1, often referred to as the DELF B1, is a standardised exam that assesses your French language proficiency at an intermediate level. It’s after the A2 and before the B2.
It’s recognized internationally and is particularly useful for:
- Immigration to France: It’s not the level require for obtaining French citizenship since January 2026, but it’s still a good one to get before taking the B2.
- Academic purposes: It can be a prerequisite for enrolling in French universities or language programs.
- Professional opportunities: It can enhance your career prospects in French-speaking countries or international organisations.
Requirements for the B1 French test
At the B1 level, you should be able to:
- Understand deas about everyday topics like work, school, and hobbies.
- Handle travel situations.
- Talk about things you know well or are interested in.
- Describe experiences, dreams, and goals, and explain your thoughts and plans.
PRO TIP B1 French Test: if you can have a 10 minute conversation with a French native speaker, you are on the right track!
Preparation for the B1 French test
- Get the Bescherelle and learn the tenses.
- Review grammar rules.
- Listen to French podcasts, music, and movies.
- Read French books, articles, and news.
- Practice writing emails, letters, and essays.
- Find a language partner, hire a tutor or join a conversation group.
- Take practice tests online so you can be truly comfortable in real-life situations in France. Our quizzes are perfect for that.
PRO TIP B1 French Test: The Bescherelle – the art of conjugating is one of the most well-known manuals in the French language. Because of its popularity, the word “Bescherelle” is commonly used in everyday language to mean a conjugation dictionary. That’s how I learned my tenses at school! I find it easy to use and carry around.
Places to take the B1 French test
You can take the DELF B1 at Alliance Française centers worldwide or other authorised testing centers. Check the official website of the CIEP (Centre International d’Études Pédagogiques) for specific locations and registration details.
Before taking the B1 French test
Take our quizzes so you can be truly comfortable in real-life situations in France.
FAQ
Which level do I need to get French citizenship?
You need to pass the B1 level. This shows that you can understand the gist of everyday conversations, travel confidently in French-speaking regions, and express yourself clearly on topics that interest you.
What is the B1 exactly?
DELF B1 is an official French language test that shows you’re at an intermediate level (B1). The DELF B1 exam tests your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. It’s recognized internationally. It can be useful for personal and professional reasons, like applying for French citizenship. Once you pass, your diploma is valid forever.
What are the requirements to take the B1 French test?
To take the DELF B1, you must be 18 or older and present a valid ID. You can retake the exam as many times as you’d like, with a minimum waiting period of 45 days.
What score do I need to pass the B1 French test?
To pass the B1 exam, you need a minimum score of 50 out of 100, with at least 5 points in each section.
How much does it cost to take the B1 French test?
It usually costs around €150. It’s free for students of the Alliance Française.
Where can I take the B1 French test?
There are certified centers all over the world to take the B1 French test. Here is where to find the official list. You need to contact each one individually. They don’t offer all the dates but there should be one exam offered each month.
How does a B1 French test go?
While the B1 is straightforward, the preparation process requires significant effort.
To prepare for the B1, you need to focus on reviewing grammar rules, expanding your vocabulary, and practicing speaking French regularly. You need to immerse yourself in the language by listening to French podcasts and reading French books and articles.
On the day of the B1 exam, you will probably feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. The listening and reading comprehension sections are challenging. The writing section involves writing an email and a short essay. It tests your grammar and vocabulary skills.
It can happen that you finish this part early. If that’s the case, you will have more time before the individual oral exam. Take the opportunity to relax and eat something.
The most stressful part of the B1 exam test is generally the oral exam. You need to introduce yourself, present a topic, and engage in a conversation with the examiner. Usually the scenarios are about something going wrong. You have to negotiate to get to the result you want.
To succeed in the B1 French exam, consistent practice is crucial. Finding a language partner, hiring a tutor or joining a language exchange group can significantly improve your fluency.
Additionally, immersing yourself in the language by watching French movies, TV shows, and listening to music can enhance your listening and comprehension skills.
How to prepare for the B1 French test?
In my experience, practicing is the best way to prepare for the B1. Practice speaking with a language partner or tutor. Take practice tests. Get a study partner and have them help you go over everything you need to know by heart, like grammar, tenses, etc.. It’s not easy but it is worth it! Et voilà !
Do I need to have A2 before taking the B1 French exam?
No. You can take the B1 without having any other French exams or diplomas. It is not necessary to have obtained the lower level diploma to register for the level in question.
When do I get the results of the B1 exam?
The results are available 1 to 6 weeks after the exam (depending on the exam center). The certification published by France Education International (FEI) is available 3 to 6 months after the exam.
When should I register for the B1 exam?
B2 exams are usually offered 10 times a year on specific dates set by the French ministry of education. It does not matter where you register for the exam.The exam dates are the same BUT some exam centers do not offer all the dates. In Paris, France, for example, most exam centers only offer 4 or 5 exam sessions a year. Exam sessions fill up quickly, so register early to secure your spot.
Can I take the B1 exam online?
You can only take the B1 exam in person. There are many centers all over the world. Check the official list.
