Want to give yourself the best possible chance to pass the DELF exam?
Discover our DELF exam preparation programmes in Paris, capital city of France, in the heart of the 10th arrondissement.
With nearly 100 years of experience in teaching French as a foreign language, École Suisse Internationale offers tailor-made courses, adapted to your current level (A1 to B2). With the support of our dedicated teaching team, you'll learn French in a friendly atmosphere, progress at your own pace, and prepare for the DELF exam with confidence.
Why take the DELF Exam?
Need to certify your level in French as a foreign language?
The DELF exam (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) is an internationally recognized diploma that validates your skills in French. Aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the exam assesses the four core competencies in language learning:
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Speaking skills
- Writing skills
Depending on your level, you can choose from four versions of the DELF exam: A1, A2, B1, or B2. It is an official diploma issued by the French Ministry of Education, valid for life and recognized worldwide.
It can help you:
Obtaining the DELF exam is therefore an undeniable asset when applying for a job in a company where French is the main language. But you may also be asked to provide it in order to enrol in a French-speaking university and prove your level of French. In addition, the DELF B1 or B2 is also recognized as official proof of your level of French when applying for French citizenship.
Preparing for the DELF exam in France: What to Expect at Each Level?
Choosing your DELF level depends mainly on your current skills and your goals.
You can take the DELF A1 or A2 (beginner levels), or the DELF B1 or B2 (intermediate levels).
To help you prepare, we provide a comparison table showing what is expected at each level of the DELF exam.
| Level | Listening Comprehension | Reading Comprehension | Speaking | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DELF A1 |
Duration: ~20 min |
Duration: 30 min |
Duration : 5-7 min |
|
| DELF A2 |
Duration: ~25 min |
Duration: 30 min |
Duration : 6-8 min |
Duration : 45 min |
| DELF B1 |
Duration: ~25 min |
Duration: 35 min |
Duration : 15 min |
Duration : 45 min |
| DELF B2 |
Duration: ~30 min |
Duration: 1 hour |
Duration: 20 min |
Duration : 1 hour |
Our Proven Method for Preparing You for the DELF Exam
The expertise of our French language school and the skills of our teachers have allowed us to develop a proven method to help you successfully prepare for the DELF exam in Paris.
A Tailored Methodology for Every Level
Because every learner progresses at their own pace, we offer individualized support and French courses adapted to your specific level.
That’s why our DELF preparation courses in Paris are delivered as private lessons. This format allows your teacher to focus on the specific skills you need to improve.
Based on your availability and goals, we co-create a personalized preparation programme to help you succeed in the B2 DELF exam.
Training for the Exam Format
Learning French is, of course, essential — but so is understanding the structure and rules of the DELF exam.
Each level follows a specific format with clearly defined expectations. To ensure you're fully prepared, our DELF prep courses include:
- Mock exams
- Official-style exercises
- Targeted training on exam methodology
A Complete and In-Depth DELF Preparation Program
To prepare you for the four DELF exam sections, we offer a comprehensive and varied programme that includes:
- listening to audio recordings to improve your listening comprehension;
- analysis of original French texts to work on your reading comprehension;
- Oral expression practice through direct conversation with your teacher
- Writing exercises adapted to your level and the expectations of the exam
We also adapt the focus of your course to your strengths and weaknesses. For example, if you're already comfortable with writing, we’ll focus more on improving your speaking skills to help you reach your goals.
École Suisse Paris – Discover Our DELF Preparation Programmes
Want to make rapid progress in French and pass the DELF exam confidently?
Our certified teachers of French as a foreign language (FLE) will guide you through a personalized learning experience that balances group immersion with one-on-one exam teaching.
Our Combination Program Includes:
- Morning group classes in small groups to develop your general French skills: after taking an placement test, you will be integrated into a group at your level for a programme tailored to your needs (subject to availability).
- Afternoon private lessons focused on DELF preparation, including mock exams and targeted exercises based on your priorities. You choose how many private sessions you need.
Our Students' Testimonials
Ana P.
Studying at this school was a wonderful experience. The quality of life and the warm welcome from the teachers and staff make you feel like you're part of a family. Excellent teachers, small groups, and well-structured classes where all aspects of the language are covered. In just one month, I learned a lot and gained the confidence to take the B2 exam—and passed it easily.
A good coffee to refresh my mind during classes, off-the-beaten-path excursions every Wednesday, and finishing the week with treats on Fridays… I stayed in one of the school’s studios, located in the same building, for stays of at least one month. Very well equipped. Perfect for my stay. I’m already looking forward to coming back. I hope to return for the C1. Many thanks to the entire École Suisse team! See you soon! (August 2025)
Alicia
I have many positive things to say about my stay at École Suisse in Paris, where I studied French for 5.5 months (morning classes) in 2024. I’m 33 years old and went from complete beginner level (A0) to intermediate (B1) in 5.5 months at the school—an outcome well beyond my expectations!
Thanks to the flexible, rich, and effective teaching structure, the professional, dedicated, and caring teachers, the small class sizes, and most of all, the warm, encouraging, and positive atmosphere of the school, I developed a strong motivation and deep commitment to my French studies. The school administration is consistent and professional, and the learning materials and information provided are of high quality from the start. I never imagined I’d reach a level of French that would allow me to speak everyday French and understand most of what French speakers said during my stay in Paris. I passed the DELF B1 exam in my final week at the school. If you want to learn French, do it at École Suisse.
The students at the school were of all ages, all down-to-earth and humble, which I greatly appreciated. I met about a dozen new friends from all over the world, with whom I’m still in touch—and I now consider them some of my closest friends. The school has several high-quality studios located in the same building. It was a safe place, and the neighborhood is ideal, with lots of bars and restaurants, and just a short walk from several different districts.
My stay in Paris in 2024 was full of adventure, unforgettable memories, and even love — all thanks to École Suisse, which was at the heart of my entire experience. I can only recommend this school; no matter your age, you’ll have a wonderful time and learn a great deal! (January 2024)
Annie G.
I think École Suisse is the best language school in Paris! They have their own textbooks, the grammar materials are very detailed and clear, and the listening and reading materials are interesting and constantly updated (so they won’t become outdated as quickly as traditional textbooks).
When it comes to spoken French, the teacher carefully corrects each student’s pronunciation and analyzes sentence structure and vocabulary mistakes after discussions. All assignments are also thoroughly reviewed. The school atmosphere is excellent as well. There are free outings every Wednesday, and the teachers show the students around Paris. During the break, everyone chats in French in small groups (I really like this too: unless students have absolutely no prior knowledge of French, everyone is expected to speak French at school, which creates a truly immersive French environment).
The teachers are not only engaging during lessons but also join student conversations like friends during breaks—sometimes continuing to correct grammar mistakes even then! Because of my past experiences at other language schools and my personality, I had always been skeptical of language schools and thought self-study was better—but this school completely changed my mind! Over these three months, my French improved tremendously. Many thanks again to all the teachers who helped me!
Whether you need to prepare for the DELF exam like I did, or you just want to integrate more quickly into French life like some of the other students, I highly recommend studying here. (December 2023)
Want to Learn More About the DELF Preparation Programme in Paris?
You can register online or come meet us in person at our school:
10 rue des Messageries, Paris 10ᵉ
► REGISTER FOR THE DELF EXAM PREPARATION COURSE
FAQ – DELF Exam Preparation Courses in Paris
What’s the difference between DELF and DALF?
The DELF exam (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) covers beginner to intermediate levels (A1 to B2), while the DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) focuses on advanced levels (C1 and C2).
DELF certification can be useful for professional or academic goals — such as applying for French nationality, enrolling in a French-speaking university, or applying to jobs where French is required.
What level of French can I validate with the DELF?
There are four DELF diplomas, aligned with the CEFR levels:
- DELF A1 and A2 – Beginner
- DELF B1 and B2 – Intermediate
Which level you prepare for depends on your current level and your personal or professional objectives.
How long does the DELF exam take?
The DELF exam takes between 1h20 and 2h30, depending on the chosen level. It is made up of 4 parts : oral comprehension, written comprehension, oral expression, written expression.
Can I take the DELF exam without taking a French course?
It's possible but you may get discouraged. Preparing alone requires a lot of discipline and access to reliable resources.
Also, many candidates struggle with the exam methodology.
Studying in a structured environment like ours helps you make faster progress, correct your mistakes, and practice in conditions similar to those of the exam.
Where can I take the DELF exam in Paris?
The École Suisse offers preparation courses for the DELF, but is not an official exam center.
To register for the exam, you must contact a certified DELF exam center. Most offer several sessions per year.
We’re happy to advise you on where and how to register.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to help.
Contact us by phone: +33 1 47 70 20 66
Or email: info@ecolesuisse-fle.fr