DELF Exam Tips

How to Prepare for the DELF A1 Exam?

Are you dreaming of Parisian croissants, charming villages, and flowing conversations in French? The DELF A1 exam can be your golden ticket! But don’t let the thought of exams stress you out. 

This is your exciting first step into the world of French, and it’s going to be fun!

Table of contents

Here’s how to turn your DELF A1 prep into a delightful journey:

Understand the Exam Format

The DELF A1 exam is scored out of a total of 100 points. It consists of four separate sections, each worth 25 points:

1. Listening Comprehension: 

This section tests your ability to understand spoken French in everyday situations. You may hear dialogues, announcements, or short stories.

2. Reading Comprehension: 

This section tests your ability to understand written French in everyday situations. You may read emails, brochures, or short messages.

3. Written Production: 

This section tests your ability to write simple French in everyday situations. You may be asked to complete a form, write a short message, or write a short description.

4. Spoken Production: 

This section tests your ability to speak simple French in everyday situations. You may be asked to introduce yourself, answer questions, or participate in a simple conversation.

Understand the Scoring Format

To pass the DELF A1 exam, you need to score at least 50 points out of 100. 

Additionally, you must score at least 5 points out of 25 in each individual section. This means that even if you score well in some sections, a low score in one section can prevent you from passing the exam.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the scoring:

  • Each section is marked by two independent examiners.
  • The examiners assess your ability to understand and communicate in French, not your grammar or vocabulary knowledge.
  • You will receive a detailed score report after your exam, which will tell you how you performed in each section.

Understand What Topics You Are Supposed to Know

The DELF A1 exam assesses your basic understanding and ability to use French in everyday situations. Here’s a breakdown of the main topics covered:

1 Personal information and introductions:

  • Introducing yourself and others
  • Talking about your age, nationality, family, and interests
  • Asking and answering simple questions about personal information

2 Daily life and routines:

  • Describing your daily routine
  • Talking about your hobbies and activities
  • Expressing likes and dislikes
  • Talking about the weather and seasons

3 Numbers, dates, and time:

  • Counting from 1 to 100
  • Telling the time
  • Expressing dates and months
  • Talking about prices and quantities

4 Shopping and ordering food:

  • Making simple purchases
  • Ordering food and drinks at a restaurant
  • Using common expressions like “Je voudrais…” and “Combien ça coûte?”

5 Places and directions:

  • Asking for and giving directions
  • Talking about different places in your town or city
  • Describing buildings and landmarks

6 Simple expressions and politeness:

  • Greeting and taking leave politely
  • Expressing thanks and apologies
  • Making requests and giving invitations

7 Family and friends:

  • Talking about your family and friends
  • Describing their appearance and personalities
  • Sharing simple stories and anecdotes

Do Your Favorite Things, but This Time in French

Listen to your favorite songs, watch movies, even cartoons in French. Immerse yourself in the language like a detective hunting for treasures.

Do you like pastries? Learn what they are called in French.

Use Flashcards and Make Them Fun

Flashcards can be your secret weapon! But boring ones? No way! Decorate them with funny pictures, act out dialogues, or play memory games with friends. Turn learning into a playful adventure!

Join french classes:

Learning with others is magique! Join online communities, find language exchange partners, or take a group class. Share your struggles, celebrate your victories, and laugh together along the way. You’ll be surprised how much encouragement boosts your confidence.

You can check out our online French classes for A1.

Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes (They’re Your Best Teachers!): ‍

Remember, everyone makes mistakes, even native speakers! Embrace them as stepping stones. Ask questions, clarify doubts, and keep practicing. Every “oops” brings you closer to “bravo!”

Celebrate Every Milestone, Big or Small:

Did you master a new verb? High five! 

Understood a whole sentence? Do a happy dance! 

Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. It fuels your motivation and keeps you moving forward.

Bonus Tip

Remember, the DELF A1 is about communication, not perfection. Focus on understanding and expressing yourself in everyday situations. You’ve got this!

Allez, courage! With a positive attitude, fun learning methods, and a supportive community, your DELF A1 journey will be an unforgettable adventure. Bon courage et bonne chance!

P.S. Need more resources? Check out these awesome websites and apps:

To strategize in depth for the DELF A1 exam, you can check out here:

Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking