Learning the French language may be an exciting and intimidating process. Authorised organisations set exams to test your language proficiency levels. The Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF) and Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française (DALF) exams are standardised French proficiency tests administered by the French Ministry of Education. You will learn about DELF and DELF B2 syllabus, exam pattern and more in this article.
About DELF B2
To revise, The Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF) is a benchmark for assessing non-native speakers’ proficiency in the French language. DELF B2, an upper intermediate-level French language proficiency exam, assesses candidates’ ability to understand complex texts, express opinions, and interact fluently in various situations. It evaluates comprehension through reading and listening tasks and production skills in speaking and writing. Achieving DELF B2 certification signifies a solid command of French, enabling individuals to confidently pursue academic, professional, or personal goals in French-speaking environments.
DELF B2 exam structure:
| Type of tests: DELF B2 | Duration | Mark out of |
| Listening Comprehension questionnaires dealing with several recordings (where 1 audio is played one time only). Maximum duration of all recordings: 15 minutes | Approx. 30 minutes | /25 |
| Reading Comprehension questionnaires dealing with several written documents involving complex structures. | 1 hour | /25 |
| Writing Taking a personal stand (contributing to a debate, formal letter, review of a film/book, expressing a demand, Essay – minimum 250 words required). | 1 hour | /25 |
| Speaking Stating and defending an opinion based on a short document designed to express a reaction & judged based on the art of holding your opinion in a debate. | Approx. 20 minutes Preparation: 30 minutes | /25 |
| Total length of group tests: 2 hours 30 minutes Total mark out of 100 Over all pass mark of the DELF B2: 50/100 Minimum mark required per test: 5/25 | ||
DELF B2 Syllabus:
1. Speaking Topics
- Comment on an abstract thought
- Approve, disapprove, justify one’s point of view
- Oppose, highlight, insist, demonstrate and analyse
- Make assumptions, express the probability
- State the advantages and disadvantages
- Initiate, continue, and end a conversation
- Rephrase and paraphrase
- Understand and convey others’ opinions
- Summarise texts with clear demarcations of key arguments
- Convince the jury based on your point of view
2. Sociocultural Topics
- Different registers: formal, informal gestures
- Argumentative structure of discourse
- Speaking: Interrupting someone, clarifying, convincing
- The difference between the professional and political world
3. Grammar Topics
- A variety of linkers or connectors
- Logical articulators: hypothesis, opposition, concession, condition, cause, consequence
- Subjunctive present and past
- Verbs + subjunctive or infinitive
- The conjunction + subjunctive or infinitive
- Impersonal forms to express different degrees of certainty
- Prepositional verbs
- Prepositional Adjectives
- Complex relative pronouns
- Simple past
- Dependant clauses in future and past tenses
- The present participle
- The present and past conditional
- Nominalisation
4. Vocabulary Topics
- Politics
- Religion
- Education
- Environment
- Culture
- Law and Order
- Defence
- Economy
- Health
- History
- Fashion
- Work: at the office, from home
- Natural disasters
- Science and technology
- Demographics
- Family structures
- Journalism
- Protests
- Justice
Conclusion
Mastering the DELF B2 level is crucial, but with the right strategies, anyone can achieve it. Through this, one can excel in French language proficiency. It opens doors to academic and professional opportunities and allows for deeper engagement with French-speaking cultures. Guided learning under a qualified instructor ensures a structured approach, personalised feedback, and practical strategies tailored to individual needs. La Forêt French class offers precisely this—a supportive learning environment where students can confidently prepare for DELF B2 examination and enhance your language skills. Join us to embark on a journey towards linguistic fluency and cultural enrichment. Let us unlock the doors to success together!
Check out our blogs section for tips on how to prepare for DELF and DALF exams and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is DELF B2 difficult?
Due to its advanced level, the DELF B2 exam can be challenging. It requires a strong command of French grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills. Test-takers must effectively express opinions, analyse complex texts, and discuss various topics. Preparation and practice are essential for success.
2. What is a good DELF B2 score?
A good DELF B2 score typically ranges from 60% to 74%, reflecting a solid grasp of French language skills. However, aiming for a score above 75% is advisable to demonstrate proficiency and enhance opportunities for academic or professional pursuits in French-speaking environments.
3. How long is DELF B2 valid?
The DELF B2 certificate remains valid indefinitely, as it does not expire. Once obtained, it is a lifelong testament to the holder’s French language proficiency. However, some institutions or employers may require recent proof of language skills, prompting individuals to retake the exam for updated certification.
4. What is the DELF B2 pattern?
The DELF B2 exam consists of four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening and Reading sections assess comprehension skills, while the Writing section evaluates written expression. The Speaking part involves a structured conversation with an examiner, during which candidates demonstrate their oral communication and convincing abilities on various topics.