DELF B2 Exam 2026: France Raised Citizenship Language Requirements
Quick Answer
As of January 2026, France requires DELF B2 (not B1) for citizenship. B2 is one full level higher. Typical preparation: 12-16 weeks from B1, 16-24 weeks from scratch. Pass rate: 35-40%. Exam: 4 sections, 50/100 to pass, min 12.5/25 per section. Registration via CIEP centres.
In January 2026, France officially raised its citizenship language requirement from B1 to B2. This change affects thousands of applicants who thought B1 would be enough. Here's what you need to know - and how to prepare.
What Changed in 2026?
The old requirement (before January 2026): DELF B1 was sufficient for French citizenship. Approximately 60% of applicants passed on their first attempt. Average preparation time: 6-8 weeks.
The new requirement (January 2026 onwards): DELF B2 is now mandatory for all citizenship applicants. B2 is one full level higher than B1. This is equivalent to adding 4-6 weeks of additional study time. Estimated first-attempt pass rate: 35-40% (significantly harder).
Why Did France Make This Change?
France's government cited two reasons: (1) Integration standards - B2 ensures applicants can participate fully in French civic life, not just survive daily conversations. (2) Alignment with EU standards - other EU countries already require B1-B2. This affects long-term residents, spouses of French citizens, skilled workers, and investors.
DELF B1 vs DELF B2 - What's the Difference?
| Aspect | DELF B1 | DELF B2 |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | Understand main points of clear speech | Understand detailed arguments and nuance |
| Reading | Understand straightforward texts | Understand complex texts and implicit meaning |
| Writing | Write simple connected texts | Write detailed, well-structured essays |
| Speaking | Participate in conversations | Discuss abstract topics, defend opinions |
| Exam duration | 1 hour 45 minutes | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Pass rate | 60-65% | 35-40% |
| Typical prep time | 6-8 weeks | 12-16 weeks |
The biggest jump: Writing and speaking. B2 requires you to construct arguments, not just describe situations.
DELF B2 Exam Structure (2026)
The exam has 4 sections: Listening (30 min, 25 points), Reading (1 hour, 25 points), Writing (1 hour, 25 points), Speaking (15 min, 25 points). Total score needed to pass: 50/100 (at least 12.5/25 in each section).
How Long to Prepare for DELF B2?
If you already have B1: 8-12 weeks of focused study, 15-20 hours per week. If you're starting from scratch: 16-24 weeks, 20-30 hours per week. Fast-track from B1: 6 weeks possible but risky, 25-30 hours per week.
DELF B2 Study Plan - 12 Week Timeline
Weeks 1-3: Foundation building - review B1 grammar, build B2 vocabulary (2,500-3,000 words), practice listening. Weeks 4-6: Skill development - writing essays, speaking practice, listening to news. Weeks 7-9: Exam-specific practice - full practice exams every 3 days. Weeks 10-12: Final preparation - mock exams under exam conditions.
Common Mistakes DELF B2 Candidates Make
DELF B2 Exam Dates 2026
Spring session: April 2026. Summer: June 2026. Autumn: September 2026. Winter: December 2026. Registration through official DELF centres. Find yours at ciep.fr. Exam cost: EUR 100-150. Results: 8 weeks after exam.
What Happens If You Fail DELF B2?
You can retake at the next session (3 months later). Full exam fee again. Typical retake success rate: 60-65%. Most people who fail pass on their second attempt after 4-6 weeks of focused study on weak areas.
Read next: DELF B1 guide (10-year card) ยท What happens if you fail? ยท Compare all exams
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