DELF B2 Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
DELF B2: 100 points total (25 per section). Pass: 50/100 overall AND at least 5/25 in each individual section. Lifetime certificate. Results in 6–12 weeks.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| Compréhension écrite | 60 min | 25 |
| Production écrite | 60 min | 25 |
| Compréhension de l'oral | 30 min | 25 |
| Production orale | 20 min | 25 |
Section Breakdown
listening
Compréhension de l'oral — 30 minutes.
Radio broadcast comprehensionExtended interviewMultiple-choice and short-answer
reading
Compréhension des écrits — 1 hour.
Analytical document comprehensionIdentifying the author's point of viewDistinguishing fact from opinion
writing
Production écrite — 1 hour.
Formal letter or contribution to an online forumOpinion essay or response to a document~250 words
speaking
Production orale — 30 minutes (20 prep + 10–15 with examiner).
Defend a point of view based on a documentExaminer poses questions and challengesStructured argumentation required
Key Facts
- Levels
- A1 to B2 (DALF covers C1/C2)
- B2 sections
- Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
- Duration
- ~3 hours + speaking
- Passing score
- 50/100 overall + 5/25 minimum per section
- Cost
- ~$150–$250 USD
- Valid
- Lifetime (no expiry)
Study Tips
- 1.Subjunctive triggers are the most tested B2 grammar point — learn all triggers systematically.
- 2.Official past exams from france-education-international.fr are free and the most accurate practice.
- 3.Writing: develop a reusable plan structure and learn 12+ connectors for each logical category.
- 4.Speaking: practice 3-minute prepared presentations on social topics (travail, environnement, technologie).
- 5.Listening: listen to France Inter or France Culture radio — slower than street French but authentic.
- 6.Reading: Le Monde articles are an excellent source of B2–C1 vocabulary and journalistic register.