I believe the exam was very straightforward and the environment was similar to that of the practice exam taken through the French department. I would suggest looking through other practices as well though because the format of our exam varied from the practice. To practice and prepare for the exam, utilize the books we use for classes and do your best to practice writing and speaking as well. The class will prepare you well for the written and oral exam, but the first part will be easier if you utilize the textbooks.  

Laryssa B. DELF A2 Candidate, Spring 2023

When I first learned about the DELF, I wasn’t confident about taking it because I felt that I still had a lot to learn about the French language. I was inspired, however, when I met with professors from the French department, who assessed my proficiency, provided guidance about my strengths and how I could improve, and encouraged me that I had the skills to take the DELF. Professor Gaillard was extremely helpful because her explanation of the rules of the exam and the expectations for each level gave me a clear idea of how I could prepare. She suggested that dedicating myself to my French coursework and participating in class would also be very helpful preparation, which it was! Now I am extremely happy that I took the DELF because it is an international recognition of my language proficiency which will serve my areas of interest in concentrating in International and Public Affairs and French and Francophone studies. I feel that preparing for and passing the DELF not only benefits me academically and professionally, but it makes me more confident about learning the language and reaching my goal of becoming a fluent French speaker. I’m looking forward to taking the DELF again at more advanced levels, and I recommend it to anyone who is interested in pursuing French studies at Brown!

William, F. DELF B1 Candidate, Spring 2023

I really enjoyed how the DELF A1 challenged me and made me more confident in my French abilities. As a beginner, it was motivating to have an exam to study for and the resources available for DELF preparation are really helpful. I expanded my vocabulary and feel more encouraged to continue learning French.

Anthony C., DELF A1 Candidate, Fall 2023

Le processus pour passer le DELF à Brown a été beaucoup plus simple que je ne l’imaginais. Je me suis inscrit, j’ai payé les frais, je me suis présenté à Rochambeau, et quelques jours plus tard, j’ai découvert que j’avais réussi l’examen. Si vous avez déjà suivi des cours de français à Brown, vous n’aurez pas à vous inquiéter. Il y a tellement de ressources en ligne et dans la bibliothèque, et vous n’avez besoin que de 50% pour réussir. De plus, l’examen sera surveillé par des personnes très sympathiques et l’environnement ne sera pas extrêmement officiel comme chez le SAT ou le GMAT. Alors n'ayez pas peur et obtenez votre certification DELF pour postuler aux écoles supérieures ou aux emplois du monde francophone ! 

Andrew, DELF B2 Candidate, Fall 2023

I had heard about the DELF before coming to Brown, and when I found out that Brown was becoming a DELF testing center, I knew I had to take the exam as soon as possible. While the DELF isn’t required to study abroad in France, it is still a great way to prove your competency in French. I find it reassuring to have a document attesting to my French abilities. I found that the DELF itself was very similar to the International Baccalaureate French exams that I had taken in high school. It might take some getting used to the structure of the exam, but once you have that down, the test itself is straightforward. Taking the practice exam will quell all fears that you might have and will make the actual test day a piece of cake!

DELF B1 Candidate, Spring 2023

I attended one of the info sessions held by the French department, and it was very helpful in answering any logistical questions I had about the exam. To prepare for the exam, I used the textbooks to back up my grammar while practicing my speaking and writing skills during in-class activities. The French courses at Brown built a solid foundation in French and equipped me with enough skills to pass the A2 level without spending too much extra work. So if you keep up with the daily homework and actively participate in class, there's nothing you should be worried about. Bonne Chance !

DELF A2 Candidate, Spring 2023