Last updated on October 26th, 2026 at 02:56 pm
The DELF B2 shows that you can use French independently: follow a debate, read a newspaper article, defend your opinion and handle most situations at work or at university. It is the level most French universities ask for, and since 2026 it is also the level required for French citizenship.
Here is how the exam works, how it is scored, and how to prepare for it.
Key takeaways
- The DELF B2 is an official diploma from the French Ministry of Education, valid for life.
- It has four papers worth 25 points each: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- To pass, you need 50/100 overall and at least 5/25 in each paper.
- B2 is the usual entry level for French universities and, since 2026, the level required for naturalisation.
What is the DELF B2?
The DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française) is awarded by the French Ministry of Education and run by France Éducation international. B2 is the fourth level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), often called the “independent user” level: you understand the main ideas of complex texts, speak with a good degree of fluency and can argue a point of view.
The four papers of the DELF B2
| Paper | What you do | Time | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening (compréhension de l’oral) | answer multiple-choice questions on recordings such as interviews, reports and radio programmes | 30 min | /25 |
| Reading (compréhension des écrits) | answer multiple-choice questions on informative and argumentative texts | 1 h | /25 |
| Writing (production écrite) | write an argued text of at least 250 words: an opinion piece, a formal letter or a contribution to a forum | 1 h | /25 |
| Speaking (production orale) | present and defend a point of view based on a short document, then discuss it with the examiners | 30 min prep + 20 min | /25 |
The three written papers are taken together and last 2 hours 30 minutes in total. The speaking test is individual. Since the exam reform, listening and reading are assessed with multiple-choice questions instead of open questions.
How is the DELF B2 scored?
The exam is marked out of 100. To pass, you need at least 50 points overall and a minimum of 5 out of 25 in each paper. At this level, examiners look closely at how you build an argument: a clear position, organised ideas, linking words and examples. Good grammar alone is not enough if your text does not answer the task.
Who is the DELF B2 for?
- Students applying to a French university, where B2 is the usual minimum level.
- Professionals who want official proof that they can work in French.
- Residents of France applying for citizenship, for which B2 is now required.
Good to know: since 2026, France requires level A2 for the multi-year residence permit, B1 for the resident card and B2 for naturalisation. The DELF is one of the recognised certificates and, unlike a test score, it never expires. Always check the current requirements with the relevant authorities.
How to prepare for the DELF B2
- Practise arguing. Train yourself to take a position, give two or three arguments with examples and conclude, both in writing and out loud.
- Learn the linking words. Expressions such as en revanche, par conséquent and il est vrai que… mais make your reasoning clear.
- Read and listen to current affairs. Exam topics often come from society, work, the environment and technology.
- Write to time. Plan, write and reread a 250-word text in one hour.
- Rehearse the speaking test. Prepare a short presentation from a document in 30 minutes, then practise defending it when someone disagrees.
Going further
Our French exam preparation takes you to the DELF with native teachers who know the marking criteria, and our French conversation course builds the fluency you need for the debate. Not sure you are at B2 yet? Test your French level, or read our guide to the DELF A2. Aiming higher? See our guide to the DALF C1.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the DELF B2 exam?
The written papers last 2 hours 30 minutes: 30 minutes of listening, 1 hour of reading and 1 hour of writing. The speaking test includes 30 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes in front of the examiners.
What score do you need to pass the DELF B2?
You need at least 50 points out of 100 overall and a minimum of 5 points out of 25 in each of the four papers.
Is the DELF B2 enough to study at a French university?
B2 is the usual minimum level for undergraduate programmes taught in French, and the DELF B2 is widely accepted. Some programmes ask for C1, so check the requirements of each university.
Do you need the DELF B2 for French citizenship?
Since 2026, French naturalisation requires level B2, and the DELF B2 is one of the recognised certificates. Always check the current requirements with the relevant authorities.
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