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Quick answer
Can IRCC check TEF or TCF results?
Yes. IRCC says applicants enter language test results, certificate number, and test PIN if asked, and that IRCC verifies the submitted test results. IRCC also says Express Entry language results must be less than 2 years old when completing the profile and applying for permanent residence.
IRCC can verify the language test results you submit. Learn what to enter for TEF Canada and TCF Canada, validity timing, and common proof mistakes.
Use the examples below as a practical drill sheet: read the format, copy the structure into one timed attempt, then check whether your answer actually matches the task before you worry about advanced vocabulary.
TCF TEF Prep is independent and is not affiliated with IRCC, Le francais des affaires, CCI Paris Ile-de-France, or France Education international. Use this guide for exam-style preparation, then verify final booking and immigration rules on the official sources linked below.
Key Takeaways
- IRCC says it verifies submitted language test results.
- TEF Canada profiles use the previous score equivalency column.
- TEF certificate number and NIP are parts of the attestation number.
- Language results must be less than 2 years old for Express Entry milestones.
Can IRCC verify French language test results?
IRCC states that applicants must enter approved language test results into the Express Entry profile, including the language test result form or certificate number and test PIN if the system asks. The same IRCC page says it will verify submitted results.
That means the safest approach is exact entry, not approximation. Use the accepted test name, correct score column, date, and certificate details from the official result document.
Do not enter practice scores, screenshots from a prep platform, or scores from a non-accepted version of a French test.
- Use TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French Express Entry proof.
- Enter the official result details exactly.
- Keep the certificate available after profile submission.
- Check expiry before accepting or submitting after an invitation.
What number do I enter for TEF Canada?
Le francais des affaires states that the TEF language proficiency test result form or certificate number is the first part of the attestation number before the hyphen. It also states that the NIP is the second part, after the hyphen.
The same TEF certificate page tells candidates to use the scores in the "Old score equivalence" column for the IRCC online profile.
IRCC also warns TEF Canada candidates to enter only the previous score equivalency results because the "Score / 699" column is not compatible with the Express Entry system at this time.
| Field | Where to look | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate number | First part before hyphen | Wrong proof identifier |
| NIP | Second part after hyphen | Profile cannot match result |
| Scores | Old score equivalence column | Wrong score grid entry |
Do French test results expire for Express Entry?
IRCC states that language test results must be less than 2 years old when applicants complete the Express Entry profile and when they submit the permanent residence application. If expired results are used for PR, IRCC says the application will be refused.
This timing can matter if you are waiting in the pool. A result that is valid on profile creation may become risky later if an invitation arrives close to expiry.
Before accepting an invitation, check the expiry date and your expected submission timing. If the result may expire, plan a retest or get advice before proceeding.
Use the CLB conversion tool to model accepted TEF and TCF scores before profile submission.
What mistakes can cause problems?
The highest-risk mistakes are entering non-official scores, using the wrong TEF score column, submitting expired results, or mismatching personal details. IRCC verification depends on accurate official test information, not on estimated CLB levels from practice material.
If your name, date, or document details differ, collect evidence before submission. Keep copies of emails from the test provider and the official certificate.
If you retake the test, update the profile with the correct new result details instead of mixing old and new section scores.
Unique insight: The verification problem is usually administrative, not linguistic. A strong score still creates risk if entered under the wrong field or expired timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can IRCC verify my French test results?
Yes. IRCC says it verifies submitted language test results and may ask for the certificate number and test PIN in the Express Entry profile.
What scores do I enter for TEF Canada?
IRCC says to use the TEF Canada previous score equivalency column, not the Score / 699 column, for Express Entry profile entry.
Do TEF and TCF results expire?
For Express Entry, IRCC says language test results must be less than 2 years old when completing the profile and submitting the permanent residence application.
What should you do next?
Choose one task, complete it under the time limit, and review the feedback against the format rule you just learned. Then use the linked owner page to repeat the same skill with fresh prompts, timed practice, and score-focused review.
Sources checked on 2026-05-15
- IRCC: Express Entry language test results and CLB/NCLC tables, retrieved 2026-05-15
- IRCC: Express Entry category-based selection, retrieved 2026-05-15
- Le francais des affaires: TEF Canada certificate and retake rules, retrieved 2026-05-15
- IRCC: Express Entry language test results, retrieved 2026-05-15
- France Education international: TCF Canada official format, retrieved 2026-05-15
- IRCC: Express Entry language test results, retrieved 2026-05-15
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