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DELF B1 Exam Guide

Format, Syllabus, Sample Papers, Preparation Tips and Success Strategy

What is the DELF B1 Exam?

The DELF B1 (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is the third level of the DELF examinations awarded by the French Ministry of Education. It corresponds to the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

At this level, candidates are expected to communicate independently in most everyday situations. They should be able to understand the main points of clear spoken and written French, express opinions, describe experiences, explain ideas and justify their point of view.​

The DELF diploma is internationally recognised and valid for life.

DELF B1 is designed for independent users and is usually attempted after completing a minimum of 100 hours of French learning through our programmes.

Exam structure

Skill

Listening

(Compréhension Orale)

Reading

(Compréhension Écrite)

Writing

(Production Écrite)

Speaking

(Production Orale)

Duration

Appr. 25 mins

45 mins

45 mins

15 mins (10 minutes preparation)

Marks

25

25

25

25

Total: 100 marks

  • Obtain at least 50 marks out of 100 overall

  • ​Score a minimum of 5 marks out of 25 in each skill

 WHAT TO EXPECT 

Candidates listen to recordings related to everyday life, work, studies and current affairs.

These may include:

  • Announcements

  • Conversations

  • Radio Programmes

  • Interviews

  • News reports​

 SKILLS TESTED 

  • Understanding the main idea

  • Identifying specific details

  • Recognising opinions and attitudes

  • Understanding announcements and discussions

  • Following conversations between multiple speakers

 COMMON MISTAKE 

  • Trying to understand every word.

  • Losing concentration during longer recordings.

  • Missing key information because of unfamiliar vocabulary.

 GENERAL TIP FOR B1 LISTENING IMPROVEMENT 

Develop the habit of listening to French podcasts, news bulletins and interviews to improve comprehension and familiarity with natural speech.

 PREPARATION TIP 

Listen to authentic French audio regularly and practise identifying the speaker's purpose, opinions and key information.

Listen to RFI Podcasts every day to improve your listening skills.

Microphone with soundwaves

RFI Podcasts

Each recording is played twice. The recordings are longer and contain more detailed information than at the A2 level.

How to Avoid Losing Marks and Improve Your DELF Exam Score

Listening

  • Read the questions before the recording begins.

  • Focus on the overall message rather than understanding every word.

  • Identify the speaker's purpose, opinion and attitude.

  • Listen for keywords, connectors, names, dates, places and numbers.

  • Use the rough sheet to note important information while listening.

  • Eliminate unlikely answers before making your final choice.

  • Listen to authentic French news, podcasts and interviews regularly.

  • Do your best and move on. Do not overthink answers after the recording ends.

Speaking

  • Answer in complete, well-structured sentences.

  • Express and justify your opinion with simple reasons and examples.

  • Use connectors such as d'abord, ensuite, par ailleurs and finalement to organise your ideas.

  • Interact naturally with the examiner and answer follow-up questions confidently.

  • Speak clearly and at a natural pace, focusing on accurate pronunciation.

  • If you do not know a word or conjugation, express your idea differently and continue speaking.

  • Organise your monologue with a clear introduction, development and conclusion.

  • Practise discussing common DELF B1 topics and current affairs regularly.

Reading

  • Read the questions before reading the text.

  • Identify keywords and understand the overall message before focusing on details.

  • Use context to understand unfamiliar words instead of translating every word.

  • Identify the writer's purpose, opinion and tone.

  • Pay attention to connectors that link ideas.

  • Manage your time and do not spend too long on one question.

  • Answer the easier questions first and return to the difficult ones later.

  • Read your answers again before moving to the next section.

Writing

  • Read the instructions carefully and address every point in the task (consigne).

  • Organise your writing with a clear introduction, development and conclusion.

  • Express and justify your opinion with relevant reasons and examples.

  • Use connectors such as premièrement, ensuite, par ailleurs and finalement to organise your ideas.

  • Write clear, accurate sentences instead of overly complex ones.

  • Keep your writing within the recommended word limit.

  • Use the appropriate register (formal or informal) according to the task.

  • Leave a few minutes to check your grammar, spelling and punctuation before submitting.

FAQ

What is the difference between DELF A2 and DELF B1?

Is DELF B1 difficult?

DELF B1 requires candidates to communicate independently and express opinions. With regular practice and familiarity with the exam format, it is an achievable level for intermediate learners.

How many marks are required to pass DELF B1?

You need at least 50 out of 100 overall and a minimum of 5 out of 25 in each skill.

At B1, candidates are expected to understand longer texts, express opinions, justify their ideas and communicate more independently than at A2.

How long should I prepare for DELF B1?

Preparation time varies depending on the learning format you choose, such as Regular, Pole Vault, Streamline, Fastlane, Velocity or Canada Focus Plus.

Can I take DELF B1 directly without taking DELF A2?

Yes. Candidates may register directly for DELF B1 if they believe their level is sufficient.

What is the most challenging part of DELF B1?

Many candidates find the speaking and writing sections more demanding because they require candidates to express and justify their opinions clearly.

How can I improve my chances of passing DELF B1?

Understand the exam format, practise official sample papers, improve your listening skills, read authentic French materials, and regularly practise speaking and writing on a variety of topics.

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