B2 French Test: Expert Insights from Carole in Paris

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B2 French Test

Read on and get ready like nobody else for the B2 French test!

My name is Carole and I am French. I was born and raised in Paris, and I want to help you test your French in real-life situations! As the founder of Test Your French, I am very much aware of all the questions you might have about the B2 exam! 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! And if you want to know the best apps and websites to enjoy France, check this article after 🙂

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. Any money I earn from this blog helps keep it running. I appreciate your support!

Definition of the B2 French test

The B2t, like the DELF B2, shows how good your French is. It’s recognized worldwide, andit can help you get into many French universities and some top schools. It’s after B1 and before C1.

Requirements for the B2 French test

At the B2 level, you should be able to:

  • Speak French well enough to have conversations.
  • Argue your point.
  • Explain your ideas. 
  • Correct your own mistakes.

PRO TIP: if you can have a 15 minutes conversation with a French native speaker, you are on the right track!

B2 French Test
Infographics B2 French Test

Preparation for the B2 French test

  1. Master the Basics: Get a French grammar book like the Bescherelle and learn the verb tenses.
  2. Expand Your Vocabulary: Review grammar rules and learn new words.
  3. Immerse Yourself: Listen to French podcasts, music, and movies. Read French books, articles, and news.
  4. Practice Your Writing: Write emails, letters, and essays in French.
  5. Speak Up: Find a language partner, hire a tutor, or join a conversation group to practice speaking French.
  6. Test Your French: Take practice tests online to get ready for real-life French conversations. Check our free quiz!

PRO TIP: The Bescherelle is a super popular French grammar book, especially for learning verb conjugations. That’s how I learned my tenses at school! I find it easy to use and carry around. 

Places to take the B2 French test

You can take the DELF B2 test at Alliance Française schools around the world or other special test centers. Check the CIEP website to find out where and how to sign up.

Before taking the B2 French test

Take our quizzes so you can be truly comfortable in real-life situations in France. 

B2 French Test

FAQ

What is the B2? 

DELF B2 is an official French language test that shows you’re at an intermediate level (B2). The DELF B2 exam tests your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. It’s recognized internationally. Once you pass, your diploma is valid forever.

What are the requirements to take the B2? 

To take the DELF B2, 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 B2? 

To pass the B2 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 B2? 

It usually costs around €20. It’s free for students of the Alliance Française. 

Where can I take the B2? 

There are certified centers all over the world to take the B2 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 to prepare for the B2?

The best way to get ready for the B2 French test is to practice. Talk to someone in French, take practice tests, and study with a friend. Get them to quiz you on grammar and verb tenses. And voilà!

Do I need to pass the B1 before taking the B2 French exam?

No. You can take the B2 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.

How long does it take to the get the results of the B2 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 is the B2 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 B2 exam online?

You can only take the B2 exam in person. There are many centers all over the world. Check the official list.

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Author

Bonjour, I am the French founder of Test Your French. I was born and raised in Paris. Now, I live in Hawaii. I help my American spouse ace Test Your French quizzes. (I know! Those tests must be perfect!).

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