Admission | Blogue Futur étudiant

4 things to know about the French admissions requirement

Application guidance

Studying in French is within your reach! 

Studying at UdeM is absolutely possible—even if you haven’t completed all your studies in French! Of course, a solid command of spoken and written French is essential to succeed at a university in this language. That’s why, to be eligible for admission, you must demonstrate that your level of French meets the requirement for the program you’re applying to. 

The good news? UdeM français (page in French) is here to support you every step of the way. 

As of the Winter 2026 session, UdeM is updating its French language requirement to better inform, guide and support you—especially if you need to take a French test. 

Here are 4 key things to help you plan your admission and stay on track to meet all deadlines! 

1. Check the French proficiency level for your program 

Not all programs require the same level of French. To find out what applies to you, see the French language requirement for admission section in the description of your chosen program. 

Select the language in which you completed your studies to display the requirement that applies to your situation: 

  • You studied entirely in French: You may already meet the requirement! Your application will be reviewed, and supporting documents will only be requested if needed. 

    For example, if you studied in Québec and passed the Épreuve uniforme de français (the standard French exam for CEGEPs), you won’t need to submit any documents. 

  • You studied partially in French: Some study paths (in French, this is known as your parcours d’études) are recognized by UdeM . The study path basically refers to your previous studies in French. 

    For instance, if you completed your pre-university studies in French and passed one or more French exams required for graduation, your study path may be recognized. You’ll just need to submit supporting documents. 

  • You studied in a language other than French, or your background isn’t recognized: You’ll need to provide official results for one of the accepted French tests, diplomas, or training programs recognized by UdeM. 

💡 Check your program description for the full list of accepted tests and required scores! 

Because written expression is now considered at the time of admission, you’ll know right away whether you’ll need to take one or two French courses during your first year at UdeM. 

2. Take a French test, if required 

UdeM accepts several French language tests, diplomas, and training programs: TEF, TCF, DELF, DALF, PIFU, and French courses offered by the École de français. 

  • Choose your test based on your preferences: availability, cost, scheduling, accommodation measures, registration deadlines, and more. 

  • Be sure to check the location and timeline for receiving your results. In some cases, results may take up to 10 weeks. If you’d like to register for a TEF session at UdeM, visit the Centre de tests de l’École de français.

Did you know? 
To be valid, your test must have been taken within 24 months of the start of the session you’re applying for. To avoid any issues, we recommend completing this step as early as possible! 

3. Confirm your eligibility 

Now that you know the French level required for your program, you can confidently submit your application! 

  • Open the program description and start your application. 

  • Did you complete a recognized study path? Check which documents are accepted: diplomas, transcripts, report cards, etc. 

  • Are you planning to take a French test? Indicate this in your application and follow the next steps. You’ll need to submit official results from a test accepted by UdeM. These may include written and oral comprehension and written expression (check your program description to see which skills are required). 

  • Have you already taken a French test? Check your eligibility in just a few clicks using the simulator in the application form. Be sure to read the Review and recommendations section to help strengthen your application.

Did you know? 
You can receive a conditional offer of admission even if you don’t yet have the required results. In that case, you’ll be asked to submit new results by the stated deadline. UdeM always takes into consideration your best test results.

4. Upload your documents on time 

To keep track of your application, your best tool is the Centre étudiant (your Student Centre). Click on the Exigence de français (French language requirement) tab to see the next steps and deadlines to upload your documents—whether that’s proof of your study path or French test results. 

You now have all the tools you need to succeed in your admission and begin your studies in French at UdeM! 

Have a question about the French language requirement? Check out our FAQ or contact the UdeM français team (pages in French). 

Intensive University French Program

Université de Montréal has developed a four-month language immersion program (400 hours of courses) for non-francophone students. Successful completion of this program will allow you to achieve the level of French proficiency required by most undergraduate programs, without having to take an additional French test.
Find out more