TEF Canada format guide

TEF Canada exam format: four sections, tasks and timing

TEF Canada includes four mandatory abilities. Reading and listening use 40 questions each; writing and speaking each contain two sections with different communication goals.

8-minute guideReviewed September 24, 2026Independent preparation resource

40 / 60 minreading
40 / 40 minlistening
2 / 60 minwriting sections
2 / 15 minspeaking sections

Quick answer

What should you know about TEF Canada exam format: four sections, tasks and timing?

The official TEF Canada format lists reading as 40 questions in 60 minutes, listening as 40 questions in 40 minutes, writing as two sections in 60 minutes and speaking as two sections in 15 minutes.

Reading and listening

Both comprehension tests become more demanding across the section. Reading rewards precise evidence and control of paraphrase. Listening requires immediate attention to speaker purpose, changes and final decisions.

  • Reading: 40 questions in 60 minutes.
  • Listening: 40 questions in 40 minutes.
  • Practise review separately from timed simulation.

Writing Sections A and B

The two writing sections require different planning. Section A develops a factual account from a short beginning. Section B asks the candidate to state and support a position in response to a statement or text.

  • Section A: continue and develop an event coherently.
  • Section B: present an argued point of view for a reader.

Speaking Sections A and B

Section A is an information-gathering interaction. Section B requires the candidate to present and defend a proposal or persuade the interlocutor. Practise the communicative purpose rather than memorizing complete speeches.

  • Section A: purposeful questions and follow-up.
  • Section B: persuasion, response and adaptation.

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