CHAPTER 5 · LANGUAGE
English and Frenchtest requirements.
English-taught programmes usually ask for IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL iBT around 80–90. French-taught programmes usually ask for DELF B2 or DALF C1, or a TCF result at the same level. Licence 1 applicants through DAP normally take the TCF DAP.
Published by Althéa Consulting · Adviser: Harshita Kohli
Source review: · How to use our guides
Typical score ranges
| Test | Typical requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0–6.5 overall | Top schools may ask 7.0; check band minimums |
| TOEFL iBT | 80–90 | Some schools accept the Home Edition |
| Duolingo English Test | 105–120 | Accepted by a growing number of schools, not all |
| DELF / DALF | B2 for most; C1 for demanding programmes | Diplomas do not expire |
| TCF / TCF DAP | B2 level result | TCF DAP is the version for Licence 1 applicants |
Should you learn French for an English-taught programme?
Yes, even at A2–B1 level. French helps you find housing, part-time work and internships, and most graduate employers outside multinational teams expect B1–B2. Many universities offer free French classes to enrolled students.
Alliance Française centres across India run French courses and DELF exam sessions; book early as seats fill before peak deadlines.
When to take your test
- Book 3–4 months before your first application deadline so you have time for a retake.
- Results usually arrive in under two weeks for IELTS and TOEFL.
- Make sure the score will still be valid on your application date (IELTS and TOEFL are usually accepted for two years).
IN DEPTH · TAP A TOPIC TO OPEN
Which test to take
| Test | Use in France | Validity | Where in India |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | English-taught programmes; most widely accepted | 2 years | IDP and British Council centres |
| TOEFL iBT | English-taught programmes, especially grandes écoles | 2 years | ETS centres and at home |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted by a growing number of schools — check each | 2 years | Online |
| DELF B2 / DALF C1 | French-taught programmes; never expires | Lifetime | Alliance Française centres |
| TCF Tout Public / TCF DAP | French-taught programmes; DAP for Licence 1 | 2 years | Alliance Française centres |
A realistic French learning plan
- 01
Now: A1
Basics, greetings, numbers, shopping — about 60–80 hours with an app plus a weekly class.
- 02
Before departure: A2
Enough for supermarkets, transport and simple calls; about 150–200 hours in total.
- 03
First year in France: B1
Take the free or low-cost French classes most universities offer; speak French at work and with flatmates.
- 04
For jobs: B2
Most French employers want B2 for client-facing roles; it also helps for the job-search permit and later residence.
QUICK ANSWERS
Your questions, answered.
Most English-taught programmes ask for IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall. Some top business and engineering schools ask for 7.0.
No. The visa follows your admission. If your programme is taught in English, you do not need a French test for the visa.
Some institutions accept a medium-of-instruction certificate from your Indian university or their own online test, but many ask for IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo. If you plan several countries, IELTS Academic is the safest choice.
No. DELF and DALF diplomas are valid for life. TCF results are valid for two years.
For most learners, about 500–650 hours of study from zero. Starting a year before departure and continuing in France makes B2 realistic by the end of a two-year master's.
WHERE TO GO NEXT
Keep going: the pages that help next.
Each card says what you will find there. Looking for something else? See every page on the site.
FRANCE GUIDE
Admission requirements
Documents, grades, language scores and timelines to get admission to French universities and schools for September 2027, for Indian students.
FROM INDIA
Choosing your language test
Which English or language test to take from India: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, DELF, TCF and Goethe compared by country acceptance, validity, fees and booking.
FROM INDIA
Month-by-month timeline
Month-by-month study abroad plan from India for a September 2027 start: tests, applications, scholarships, loans, visa, flights and a document checklist.
TOOL
Compare countries
Compare countries on fees, living costs, visa rules and post-study work, in one table.
YOUR OWN PLAN
Questions about
France?
Bring your profile, budget and timeline. We will turn this guide into a plan for you.
Book a consultation