Last updated on October 26th, 2026 at 02:35 pm
The DELF A1 is the first official French diploma. It certifies that you can handle simple everyday situations: introducing yourself, filling in a form, understanding a short message or asking for basic information. For many beginners, it is a motivating first goal.
Here is how the exam works, how it is scored and how to prepare for it.
Key takeaways
- The DELF A1 is an official diploma from the French Ministry of Education and is valid for life.
- It has four papers, each marked out of 25: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- You need 50/100 to pass, with at least 5/25 in each paper.
- The listening and reading papers now use multiple-choice questions.
What is the DELF A1?
The DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française) is awarded by the French Ministry of Education and administered by France Éducation international. A1 is the first level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): you can communicate in a simple way, as long as the other person speaks slowly and is willing to help. Younger learners have their own versions of the exam, the DELF Prim and the DELF junior.
The four papers of the DELF A1
| Paper | What you do | Duration | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening (compréhension de l’oral) | answer questions on short recordings of everyday situations, each played twice | 20 min | /25 |
| Reading (compréhension des écrits) | answer questions on short everyday documents: signs, adverts, messages | 30 min | /25 |
| Writing (production écrite) | fill in a form and write short, simple messages (a postcard, an email, a note) | 30 min | /25 |
| Speaking (production orale) | a guided interview, an exchange of information and a simulated dialogue | 10 min preparation + 5 to 7 min | /25 |
The three written papers take place together and last 1 hour 20 minutes in total. The speaking test is individual. Since the exam was overhauled, the listening and reading papers use multiple-choice questions instead of open questions, and most exam centres now use this format.
How is the DELF A1 scored?
The exam is marked out of 100. To pass, you need at least 50 points overall and at least 5 out of 25 in each paper. In practice, beginners often gain the most points in the speaking test: a well-prepared introduction and a few useful phrases go a long way.
Who is the DELF A1 for?
- Beginners who want a first concrete goal and official proof of their progress.
- Newcomers to a French-speaking country who want to show they can manage everyday situations.
- Learners of all ages who want a recognised milestone before moving on to the A2.
Good to know: since 2026, the multi-year residence permit in France requires an A2 level. If you need a diploma for a residence application, aim for the A2. The A1 remains an excellent first step.
How to prepare for the DELF A1
- Learn to introduce yourself fluently. Your name, nationality, job, family and hobbies are at the heart of the speaking test.
- Master everyday vocabulary. Numbers, dates, times, prices, food, transport and directions come up again and again.
- Practise with sample papers. They help you get used to the multiple-choice format and the timing.
- Write short messages every week. Invitations, postcards and simple emails are typical writing tasks.
- Speak with a teacher. Role-plays such as buying a ticket or ordering a meal prepare you for the simulated dialogue.
Going further
Our French exam preparation takes you step by step to the DELF with native teachers, and our French conversation lessons help you speak with confidence from the very first lessons. Not sure where to start? Take our French level test. And if you are worried about getting things wrong, read our article on why making mistakes in French helps you progress.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the DELF A1 exam?
The written papers last 1 hour 20 minutes: 20 minutes of listening, 30 minutes of reading and 30 minutes of writing. The speaking test takes 10 minutes of preparation and 5 to 7 minutes in front of the examiners.
What score do you need to pass the DELF A1?
You need at least 50 out of 100 overall, with a minimum of 5 out of 25 in each of the four papers.
How long does it take to prepare for the DELF A1?
It depends on your starting point and how often you study. A complete beginner who takes regular lessons can often reach the A1 level within a few months.
Is the DELF A1 enough for a residence permit in France?
Not for the multi-year residence permit, which has required an A2 level since 2026. The DELF A1 remains a useful first step and official proof of your progress.
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