What are the differences between DELF B1 and B2 ?

Bonjour!

You have to take the DELF exam for personal or professional reasons, to demonstrate your French skills but you don’t know the differences between B1 and B2 French exams ?

If you're unsure which DELF level is right for you, don't worry — our experienced DELF tutor will assess your current French skills and help determine the exact level you need to reach to meet your goals.

We offer expert-led online French courses specifically designed to prepare students for the DELF B1 and DELF B2 exams. Whether you're learning French for professional advancement, personal growth, or immigration purposes, our structured approach and proven teaching methods have helped students achieve a 100% success rate.

We also understand very well the challenges involved in meeting immigration language requirements — especially with recent changes to French naturalisation laws that now require higher levels of proficiency (such as B2). That’s why we guide you not just through the language, but through the entire exam preparation process, helping you build both confidence and competence.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the key differences between DELF B1 and DELF B2, so you can better understand what each level involves and decide which one aligns best with your needs.

What is the DELF B1 ?

At the DELF B1 level, you are considered an independent user of the French language. This means you’ve moved beyond the beginner stage and are starting to feel more confident in both speaking and writing. You’re able to handle most everyday situations, understand the main points of conversations, and express your opinions on familiar topics. You can also interact with others in a reasonably fluent and natural way, even if you still make occasional mistakes.

You’ll often hear the question: “Is the DELF B1 difficult?”
The answer depends on your current level and study habits, but for a regular learner, DELF B1 is a very achievable goal. It requires a solid understanding of basic grammar and vocabulary, as well as the ability to communicate clearly in real-life situations — but it doesn’t demand advanced or academic-level language. With the right preparation, most students find it very manageable.

Another frequent question is: “What is the equivalent of DELF B1?”
DELF B1 corresponds to the intermediate level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). In practical terms, it’s roughly equivalent to:

  • about 400 to 500 hours of French study,
  • or 1 to 2 years of consistent language learning,
  • and in some systems, it's comparable to level 3–4 in high school French, or lower-intermediate level in adult education programs.

Why Take the DELF B1?

Taking the DELF B1 exam can be a very smart move, especially depending on your personal, academic, or professional goals.
Here’s what motivates candidates to take it:

1. Proof of Proficiency (Intermediate Level – B1)

  • DELF B1 certifies that you can handle everyday situations in French, including:
    • Participating in conversations.
    • Expressing opinions.
    • Understanding main points of clear standard input on familiar matters.

2. Useful for Studying or Working Abroad

  • French-speaking countries (e.g. France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada) often require B1 for:
    • University admissions.
    • Visa or residency applications.
    • Job opportunities.
    • Internship programs.

3. Permanent, Recognized Certification

  • The DELF diploma is valid for life.
  • It’s internationally recognized, especially in Europe (aligned with the CEFR – Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

4. Helps with Citizenship or Residency

5. Milestone in Language Learning

  • B1 marks a shift from beginner to independent user.
  • Taking the exam gives you a clear goal and motivation.
  • It helps you structure your learning and identify areas to improve (speaking, listening, writing, reading).

6. Step Toward Higher Certifications

  • DELF B1 is a stepping stone to:
    • DELF B2 (more advanced – often needed for university).
    • DALF C1/C2 (proficient/near-native levels).
  • Each level opens more doors professionally and academically.

What is the format of the DELF B1 exam?

The DELF B1 exam lasts around 1h30 and is divided into four main sections, each testing a different skill: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

1. Listening (Compréhension orale)

  • Duration: About 25 minutes (including 5 minutes to read questions)
  • Content: You listen to several recordings (conversations, announcements, interviews, etc.)
  • Tasks: Answer multiple-choice or short-answer questions based on the recordings.

2. Reading (Compréhension écrite)

  • Duration: About 35 minutes
  • Content: Various texts such as articles, advertisements, emails, or instructions
  • Tasks: Answer comprehension questions that test your understanding of the texts.

3. Writing (Production écrite)

  • Duration: About 45 minutes
  • Content: Writing tasks like a letter or email, and a short essay or message related to everyday topics or familiar situations.
  • Tasks: Produce a clear, structured written response.

4. Speaking (Production orale)

  • Duration: About 10-15 minutes
  • Format:
    • Guided conversation: Answer questions about yourself, your experiences, or your opinions.
    • Task-based activity: Describe a situation or react to a scenario.
    • Interactive discussion: Engage in a role-play or debate with the examiner.

Overall, the DELF B1 focuses on practical communication skills suitable for everyday situations, travel, work, and social interactions.

What is the DELF B2 ?

At the DELF B2 level, you are considered an independent and confident user of the French language. This means you’ve progressed well beyond the intermediate stage and are now able to communicate with greater fluency and accuracy. You can handle more complex conversations and express your ideas clearly and convincingly, even when discussing abstract or unfamiliar topics.

You’re able to participate in debates, negotiate, and defend your point of view effectively. You can understand the main ideas of both concrete and abstract texts, including technical discussions related to your field of interest. While you may still make occasional mistakes, they rarely affect the clarity of your communication.

A common question is: "Is the DELF B2 difficult?" The answer depends on your current level and preparation, but for dedicated learners, DELF B2 is definitely achievable. It requires a solid grasp of more advanced grammar and a broad vocabulary, along with the ability to express yourself clearly and fluently in both written and spoken French. Unlike B1, B2 demands greater precision and the capacity to handle more demanding language tasks, but with consistent practice, many learners reach this level successfully.

Another frequent question is: "What does B2 level of French mean?" DELF B2 corresponds to the upper-intermediate level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). In practical terms, it’s roughly equivalent to about 600 to 800 hours of French study, or 2 to 3 years of consistent language learning. In some education systems, it compares to advanced high school French or the equivalent of an intermediate college language course.

This leads to another key question: "How long does it take to prepare for DELF B2?" While the timeline varies depending on your starting level and study habits, here’s a general guideline:

  • From B1 to B2: around 6 to 12 months with regular, focused study
  • From beginner level (A1): about 12 to 18 months, depending on intensity
  • Recommended pace: 5 to 10 hours per week of consistent, structured practice

With the right approach, DELF B2 is a challenging but very achievable goal.

Why Take the DELF B2?

Taking the DELF B2 exam is a strategic and often necessary step for anyone who wants to study, work, or live in a French-speaking country, especially France. It confirms that you have reached an upper-intermediate level in French — a level where you can communicate confidently, even in demanding situations.

Here’s why the DELF B2 is more relevant than ever:

1. Proof of Advanced Proficiency (Upper-Intermediate – B2)

The DELF B2 diploma proves that you can:

  • Understand and summarize complex texts and discussions, even on abstract topics.
  • Speak fluently and spontaneously, with minimal hesitation.
  • Defend your opinions with clear, logical arguments.
  • Write structured and detailed texts, such as essays, reports, and formal letters.

At this level, you are considered a fully independent user of French — capable of handling a wide range of real-life situations, both personal and professional.

2. Required for University Studies in France

Most French universities and higher education institutions require at least a B2 level for admission into full academic programs taught in French. The DELF B2 is often requested for:

  • University applications (licence, master, grandes écoles)
  • Exchange programs (like Erasmus+ or Campus France)
  • Scholarships and government-funded opportunities
  • French-language preparatory courses

Without a certified B2 level, access to higher education in France can be limited.

**3. Now Required for French Citizenship (as of 2026)

⚠️ Important legal update:

A new law passed on 26 January 2024 — Law n° 2024‑42: "Contrôler l’immigration tout en améliorant l’intégration" — introduces major changes to immigration and naturalisation requirements in France.

  • Starting 1 January 2026, anyone applying for French nationality (through naturalisation, marriage, or reintegration) must prove a B2 level in French — both oral and written.
  • Applicants will also need to pass a test covering civic, cultural, and historical knowledge of France, in addition to language skills.

This is a significant increase from the previous B1 requirement, making DELF B2 the new standard for many legal residency or citizenship pathways.

4. Valuable for Long-Term Residency and Work

Even outside the citizenship track, B2 is often required (or strongly preferred) for:

  • Certain long-term residence permits
  • Professional roles in sectors like business, healthcare, education, or public service
  • Internships or employment in French-speaking environments

For international professionals, holding a DELF B2 helps prove you're ready to function fully in French — with clients, colleagues, or students.

5. Permanent, Globally Recognized Certification

The DELF B2 is a diploma for life:

  • It never expires.
  • It’s internationally recognized, especially in Europe and Francophone countries.
  • It aligns with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), making it easy to compare across education and immigration systems.
  • It adds credibility to your CV and boosts your academic and professional profile.

6. A Milestone That Motivates Your Learning

Achieving the DELF B2 means you're no longer a passive learner — you're now an independent, fluent user of the language. Preparing for the exam helps you:

  • Stay motivated with a concrete goal
  • Identify your strengths and weaknesses in speaking, listening, writing, and reading
  • Push beyond intermediate and prepare for more advanced usage in real life

7. Step Toward Advanced Certification (DALF)

DELF B2 also opens the door to higher-level diplomas:

  • DALF C1 – Required for many academic or professional positions
  • DALF C2 – For near-native fluency and competitive edge in translation, research, or international relations

Each level you complete strengthens your command of French — and your opportunities.

In Summary
If you're planning to study, work, or settle in France, or simply want to validate your French at a serious level, the DELF B2 is no longer optional — it’s essential. With upcoming legal changes taking effect in 2026, getting your DELF B2 now is a smart, forward-thinking move.

What is the format of the DELF B2 exam?

The DELF B2 exam lasts around 2.5 hours and is divided into four main sections, each testing a different skill: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

1. Listening (Compréhension orale)‍

Duration: About 30 minutes (including time to read questions)
Content: You listen to two recordings (radio interviews, news reports, or formal discussions).
Tasks: Answer multiple-choice or short-answer questions based on the recordings.

2. Reading (Compréhension écrite)

Duration: About 60 minutes
Content: Various texts such as opinion articles, reports, or formal letters.
Tasks: Answer comprehension questions that test your understanding of main ideas, tone, structure, and specific details.

3. Writing (Production écrite)

Duration: About 60 minutes
Content: One structured writing task, such as a formal letter, article, or essay expressing and supporting your opinion.
Tasks: Write a clear, coherent, and well-argued text on a specific topic.

4. Speaking (Production orale)

Duration: About 20 minutes (with 30 minutes preparation time)
Format:

  • ‍Monologue suivi: Present and defend your opinion on a given topic.
  • Discussion: Engage in a conversation or debate with the examiner about the topic.

Overall, the DELF B2 focuses on the ability to argue, persuade, and defend your point of view, as well as to understand and produce structured, formal language. It prepares you for study, work, and professional communication in a French-speaking environment.

For those applying for French citizenship, the shift from B1 to B2 marks a significant increase in expectations. While B1 focuses on everyday communication, B2 requires the ability to express complex ideas, understand nuanced texts and conversations, and use advanced grammar with confidence.

To achieve this level with confidence and precision, understanding the key differences between B1 and B2—such as moving from everyday communication to more complex argumentation and refined grammar—is essential. Expert guidance is invaluable, and this is precisely what our experienced French tutor offers.

Prepare for the DELF B1 and B2 exams with our French tutor

Our French tutor is a native French with international experience with more than 20 years' teaching French in Europe and has had the opportunity to accompany many students across the world in order to best support them in their learning of French.
Certified in FLE (French as a Foreign Language), our French tutor has great expertise in the different levels of French required for the different DELF and DALF exams (for adults and children) and will be able to guide you throughout your learning of the language in order to that your level meets the specific expectations of the DELF and DALF exams, knowing exactly what difficulties candidates may have when preparing for exams of this type.

DELF B1 and B2 courses with French via Skype, how does it work?

We helps you prepare to reach the French B2 level, guaranteeing you 100% success.

Our DELF courses are delivered online Zoom or Teams or on the platform of your choice covering all aspects of the French language in order to best support you in your objectives.

Our DELF B1 and B2 tuition is personalized, tailored to your specific needs and pace allowing you to achieve your goals more effectively than in a group or classroom setting.

  • We will design a personalized study plan for you, based on your specific needs and your language level.
  • We offer an effective preparation with tailored learning materials (full range of DELF B1 and B2 grammar ressources and assessments).
  • Our French lessons target key skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—while honing essential grammar for the DELF B1 and B2, including tenses like futur simple, futur proche, the conditional, subjunctive, passé composé vs imparfait, and logical connectors, all aligned with exam requirements.
  • For homework, we will assign you work to practice grammar if necessary, develop your vocabulary and prepare written and oral comprehension, written and oral production tasks. The homework will then be prepared and reviewed.
  • We offer you great planning flexibility. Our DELF French tutor is available all year, during the holidays and after work hours.

We are happy to support DELF B1 and B2 students to guarantee their success at the exam.

Below are some testimonials from students who prepared for DELF B1 and B2 exams with us.

“ Our 14-year-old son, Calder, had good French language ability, but didn’t know where to find support or how to prepare for the DELF B2. He was lost. Only seven weeks before the exam, we contacted Laure for help. She quickly conducted an analysis and delivered an honest assessment of his strengths and weaknesses. She believed, if he really applied himself, he would “most-likely” pass the exam. Therefore, she developed a specific and targeted plan to get him to pass. And over the seven weeks he worked hard on both his online tutoring with Laure and the offline lessons she prepared for him. The plan worked! He passed the B2. He absolutely would not have passed without her. That is not hyperbole. Calder would be the first to tell you that. Laure is a very talented and experienced professional; it shows in her work and abilities. We are ever grateful – and lucky -  that we found her. We could not recommend her more. “

Blake Johnson for Calder
(DELF B2) Portland - Oregon 2025

" Laure is an Exceptional French Teacher
‍I had the absolute pleasure of working with Laure to prepare for the DELF B1 exam, and I can confidently say that she played a key role in my success. From the very first lesson, Laure demonstrated not only a deep understanding of the French language but also a remarkable talent for teaching it in a way that was clear, engaging, and perfectly tailored to my level and learning style.
What sets Laure apart from other teachers is her ability to make each session both productive and enjoyable. She has a calm, encouraging approach that immediately put me at ease, even when tackling tricky grammar points or practicing oral expression—my biggest challenge. Her lessons were always well-structured, combining conversation practice, listening exercises, vocabulary building, and mock exam questions that mirrored the real test format.
Laure was also incredibly attentive to my progress. She gave thoughtful, constructive feedback and offered practical tips for improving not just my language skills but also my confidence. Thanks to her guidance, I felt fully prepared going into the exam and achieved a score I’m really proud of!
If you're looking for a skilled, supportive, and genuinely inspiring French teacher, I can’t recommend Laure highly enough. She’s an outstanding instructor who truly cares about her students’ success."

Karen Karbo
(DELF B1) author, France - 2024/2025

" I was looking for last-minute help to score a B2 on the DELF French exam for University. I had only about a month or two before my exam and Laure was able to help me attain the B2 score. Her teaching skills were fantastic and I really noticed great improvement after every session. If you are interested in learning French, especially for any French exams, Laure is the professor for you. She not only helped me pass my exam but also helped me improve my French proficiency. I was looking to just pass the DELF exam but Laure made sure I received a good score. I scored an 81/100 and a perfect score in French which wouldn’t have been possible without her tutoring. Overall, Laure is a great teacher and I couldn't have received my B2 score without her. "

Chloé Gratson, Sophomore
(DELF B2) McGill University - Montreal, 2024

“ I undertook 11 months of lessons to prepare the DELF B1 with Laure and was amazed by how much my French improved over this time. I had not studied French since high school, and prior to these lessons, could not have imagined being able to hold a conversation in French. Laure’s interactive and engaging lessons quickly became a highlight of my week. Laure emphasises practicing speaking the language - all our lessons were conducted completely in French and even during casual conversation, she encouraged discussion of sociopolitical issues. She has a lot of experience in preparing students for the DELF exams and her expertise in this area shone through during lessons as she guided us through the syllabus in a relatively short period of time. I highly recommend Laure for anyone considering learning French - she’s an extremely effective teacher and she gave me the confidence to continue developing my skills in the language.”

Dr Dana Lee
(DELF B1) - Melbourne, Australia 2022/2023

"Having studied French for several years in high school, I took up re-learning the language and preparing for the DELF after my undergraduate medical studies to maintain my connection and interest with the French culture. Laure was fantastic as a teacher and mentor during this experience, and was a highly supportive, encouraging and engaging teacher. Her lessons were structured around the exam topics in such a way that I could not have felt better prepared going in. On a personal note, her flexibility to reorganise certain lessons around my work schedule, as well as her weekly homework tasks to keep our knowledge and learning to the highest standards were highlights of working and learning with her, making for a very enjoyable and smooth studying experience alongside working full-time. I was able to pass my DELF B1 exam despite being out of touch with the language for over 7 years prior to Laure’s lesson- a true testament to her ability as a teacher, and would have no doubt recommending her to future students as one of the best options to prepare for your DELF exam, irrespective of your level!”

Dr Abhi Shekhsrinivas
(DELF B1) Melbourne, Australia 2022/2023

“ Achieving a pass grade on the DELF B2 examination was a prerequisite for my doctoral program. Having spent half a decade studying French in a North American high school, I was confident that self-study would suffice. However, the reality was more challenging than anticipated, and I found myself floundering on my first attempt with a disappointing score in the 40s. That's when I enlisted the help of Laure. With her in-depth expertise and professional demeanor, she swiftly discerned my weak points and devised an astute, targeted plan to help me overcome them. Her assignments were also well curated to improve my skills and rigorous enough to have me studying 7 hours a week to keep up. Although I hesitated initially at the cost, her lessons showed me that it was well worth it. In just eleven sessions, Laure remarkably helped me boost my score by approximately 30 points, culminating in a pass mark of 71.5 at my second attempt. My primary obstacle was my speaking ability, a skill I hadn't had the chance to hone in years. I also struggled with key grammatical structures vital for the exam. Laure didn't merely teach me how to succeed in the DELF exam, but she also substantially elevated my overall French language proficiency. Should I dare to take on the DELF C1 exam, I would unquestionably reach out to Laure without a second thought. For anyone endeavoring to excel in a French language examination or aspiring to enhance their French speaking abilities, Laure can definitely help."

Yuri Han, PhD student
(DELF B2) Seoul, South Korea, 2022/2023

" I started learning French through group classes when I first moved to Geneva, but as I started to advance, I wanted to focus more intensely with grammar, writing and conversational skills. Laure immediately understood what I needed to work on as I explained that I would like to take the DELF exams and that French is critical for my career in the UN. She prepared me very well with the exam's reading and writing exercises, and fortunately, I was able to pass my DELF B1 exam. As I continue to work with her, I appreciate that she is a patient, very structured, and motivating teacher -- I would recommend Laure to anyone who wants to improve on French! "

Tomoka Nakamura
(DELF B1) UN staff, Geneva - Switzerland 2018/2019/2020

" I have had lessons with Laure for a year. One year ago I was at A1/A2 level, despite lessons and an A at GCSE level. My initial aim was to obtain the B2 DELF in order to work with French speakers, here in Switzerland. From the start Laure was able to recognise the errors I commonly made and would write these down so that I could learn them, she would then test me in the following lesson. She positively encouraged me to speak, write, read and listen throughout this time. Laure would check my written work in between lessons and was always happy to help. She even bought the B2 DELF practice exam book that i was using, so that she could help me. have been to University and had Post graduate teaching in medical studies. I can truly say that Laure is one of the kindest, most dedicated, thoughtful, professional and effective teachers that i know. She is methodical and offers structure to her lessons. She possesses the characteristics and qualities of a great teacher. I do not use this term lightly, I have had several other teachers but she stands out from the crowd. I worked hard and passed the B2 in November 2017, thanks to Laure. Since then Laure has continued to help me to gain confidence in my profession. She has shown herself to be adept at learning medical terminology as well as using different teaching styles to help me. Thank you Laure, you have helped me so much to realise my dreams. Last year, I was successful in a interview in French. In 2018 I start work in a 100% french environment. I believe that Laure can help anyone to learn French to a high level and boost your confidence at the same time. If you are motivated, she will help you. If you are discouraged she will help you find your courage. "

Dr Steve P
(DELF B2) Lausanne - 2017/2018

We understand the challenges faced by learners studying French for immigration, professional, or academic reasons—whether for school, work, or citizenship—where meeting language requirements is essential for integration. Our approach is designed to help you achieve these goals effectively and confidently.
We offer personalized online DELF courses tailored to your needs and schedule, helping you perform your best and feel fully prepared throughout the exam.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us If you want to discuss your requirements with us, we will then be pleased to come up with a teaching plan for you.

À bientôt !