Business French Tests and Certification
A number of internationally recognized professional French exams (diplômes de français professionnels, or DFP) are administered by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP), ranking candidates according to the CEFR's six proficiency levels: basic (A1 and A2), intermediate (B1 and B2) and advanced (C1 and C2). CCIP French proficiency exams with a business focus include the following:
DFP A2, DFP B1, and DFP AFFAIRES B2 are suitable for those with basic or intermediate level communication skills for business settings. The most advantageous certification, however, might be the DFP AFFAIRES C1 exam, which measures one’s ability to truly function effectively in a French business environment with advanced level skills. Those who receive a high score (or mention) on the DFP AFFAIRES C1 can later attempt the more challenging DFP AFFAIRES C2 diploma (which involves a thesis written under the supervision of a professor approved by the CCIP), if they so desire.
The CCIP also offers a Language Proficiency Diploma (Diplôme de Compétence en Langue, or DCL) plus various exams focusing on secretarial skills, hospitality and tourism management, science, technology and law, as follows:
The Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides a brochure with detailed information on all DFP exams on their website, along with a link to exam centers worldwide.
- DFP A2 (For practice test, click here)
- DFP B1 (For practice test, click here)
- DFP AFFAIRES B2 (For practice test, click here)
- DFP AFFAIRES C1 (For practice test, click here)
- DFP AFFAIRES C2 (Research-based)
DFP A2, DFP B1, and DFP AFFAIRES B2 are suitable for those with basic or intermediate level communication skills for business settings. The most advantageous certification, however, might be the DFP AFFAIRES C1 exam, which measures one’s ability to truly function effectively in a French business environment with advanced level skills. Those who receive a high score (or mention) on the DFP AFFAIRES C1 can later attempt the more challenging DFP AFFAIRES C2 diploma (which involves a thesis written under the supervision of a professor approved by the CCIP), if they so desire.
The CCIP also offers a Language Proficiency Diploma (Diplôme de Compétence en Langue, or DCL) plus various exams focusing on secretarial skills, hospitality and tourism management, science, technology and law, as follows:
- DFP scientifique et technique B1
- DFP tourisme et hôtellerie B1
- DFP secrétariat B1
- DFP secrétariat B2
- DFP juridique B2
- DFP médical B2
The Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides a brochure with detailed information on all DFP exams on their website, along with a link to exam centers worldwide.