Online DELF and DALF preparation, tailored to you
Private lessons to pass the DELF B1, the DELF B2 or the DALF C1 first time: exam technique, timed mock exams and detailed feedback on your writing and speaking.
DELF exam preparation is not just about "raising your level": each paper has a very specific format, timing and set of marking criteria. Many candidates with good French fail because they don't know them. In my lessons we work on both at the same time: your French and your exam technique.
Which DELF or DALF level do you need?
The DELF and DALF are the official diplomas awarded by the French Ministry of Education to certify French as a foreign language. Each level is a separate diploma: you can sit the one you need directly, without having passed the lower levels, and the diploma is valid for life.
| Level | Diploma | What it shows | 2026 fee* |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | DELF A1 | You can introduce yourself and get by in very simple situations | €87 |
| A2 | DELF A2 | You can communicate in routine, everyday tasks | €115 |
| B1 | DELF B1 | You can cope in most situations and give your opinion | €160 |
| B2 | DELF B2 | You can argue a point fluently and understand complex texts | €188 |
| C1 | DALF C1 | You use French flexibly at work or at university | €244 |
| C2 | DALF C2 | You have full command of the language in any context | €256 |
These are the fees published by the Institut français de Madrid for 2026. In Spain there are four DELF and DALF exam sessions a year for adults, although not every centre runs all of them: check the calendar of the Centro Nacional de Exámenes.
What is the exam like?
From A1 to C1, the exam has four papers, each marked out of 25: listening, reading, writing and speaking. To pass you need 50 points out of 100 and at least 5 out of 25 in each paper: a lower mark in any of them means you fail. The DALF C2 has two papers worth 50 points each.
| Paper | DELF B1 | DELF B2 | DALF C1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 25 min | 30 min | 40 min |
| Reading | 45 min | 1 h | 50 min |
| Writing | 45 min (160 words min.) | 1 h (250 words min.) | 2 h 30 (synthesis and essay) |
| Speaking | 15 min + 10 min preparation | 20 min + 30 min preparation | 30 min + 1 h preparation |
Source: the official information sheets from France Éducation international, which runs the exam. You'll find the details of each level in my guides to the DELF B1, the DELF B2 and the DALF C1 and C2.
How we prepare for the DELF and DALF together
Diagnosis with a mock exam
We start with a practice exam to see how many points you are missing and in which paper you can gain them fastest.
Corrected written work
Letters, articles and essays marked with the official grid, with your mistakes explained and an improved version.
Timed speaking practice
We simulate the speaking paper with the real preparation time: monologue, debate and interaction, just like on exam day.
Comprehension strategies
Techniques to anticipate the questions, take notes and avoid losing points on details.
How many lessons do you need to prepare for the DELF?
It depends on the gap between your current level and the level of the exam. After the level assessment I'll give you an honest estimate; as a rough guide:
| Your situation | Approximate number of lessons | Pack |
|---|---|---|
| You already have the level but need exam technique | 8 to 10 lessons | 8 lessons |
| You are half a level short (for example, a solid B1 aiming for B2) | about 20 lessons | 20 lessons |
| You are a full level short | 40 to 50 lessons, with independent study | 50 lessons |
Ideally, start two to four months before the exam date, with two lessons a week. If your exam is sooner, that's possible too: we prioritise the papers where you will gain the most points.
Thierry is a true professional: his lessons are always well prepared and he adapts very well to any request. What stands out most: his teaching skills, motivation and professionalism.
— Sara Sánchez, DELF B2 preparation student (translated from Spanish)
Frequently asked questions about the DELF and DALF
Does the DELF expire?
No. The DELF and DALF are valid for life. What can vary is what each organisation requires: some universities or employers ask for a recent diploma, so always check the requirements.
Can I sit the B2 without having the B1?
Yes. Each level is a separate diploma and there are no prerequisites for registering. What matters is sitting the level you genuinely have.
What happens if I fail just one paper?
If you score less than 5 out of 25 in one paper, you fail the exam even if your total is above 50 points. That is why we work on your weakest paper first.
Which is better, the DELF or the TCF?
The DELF is a permanent diploma; the TCF is a test that gives you a level valid for 2 years. For most purposes in Spain the DELF is the better choice; some procedures in France or Canada require the TCF. I explain this in the guide DELF, DALF or TCF.
How far in advance should I start?
Two to four months before the exam is ideal. Registration usually closes several weeks before the exam date, so check your centre's deadline.
Do you also prepare students for the TCF?
Yes. The TCF is prepared differently: its compulsory papers are multiple-choice questions that give a level from A1 to C2, so we train speed and answering strategy, plus the speaking and writing papers if you need them.
Shall we get started?
Choose your pack and I'll get in touch within 24 hours to arrange your first lesson. If you'd rather ask me a question first, send me a message.