LC French exam-day guide
LC French · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID matching your registration name
Bring the same government-issued photo ID you registered with. The name on the ID must match your registration exactly; if your name has recently changed or your ID uses a different spelling or script, confirm with the provider before test day how to handle it.
Confirmation of your appointment details
Save or print the confirmation email or portal page showing your test date, start time, and test centre address (or online proctoring link). Check the reporting time, which is usually earlier than the start time; confirm the exact reporting window with the provider.
Printed or downloaded admission document, if required
Some providers require a printed admission ticket or a specific confirmation page. Confirm with the provider whether a printout is mandatory or whether a digital copy on your phone is accepted.
Route and travel plan to the test centre
Do a dry run or map the route in advance. Aim to arrive with buffer time for traffic, parking, or public transport delays. If you are testing online, confirm your room, desk, and internet setup the day before.
Pens or pencils and any permitted materials
Bring two working pens or pencils and an eraser if the test uses paper answer sheets. Confirm with the provider what writing instruments and materials are allowed; many tests prohibit notes, dictionaries, and electronic devices in the test room.
Water and a light snack for before or after the test
Drink water and eat something light before you arrive. Whether you can keep water or a snack at your desk during the test depends on the provider's rules, so confirm in advance and plan to consume them outside the test room if unsure.
Watch or silent timekeeping device, if permitted
A simple analogue watch can help you pace yourself if the test room has no visible clock. Confirm with the provider whether watches are allowed; smartwatches and any device with connectivity are almost always prohibited.
Know the test format and timing
Review the number of sections, question types, and time allowed per section so you can plan your pace. Confirm the current format and timing with the provider, since formats can change between sessions.
Review the listening and reading instructions in French
Read the instructions for each section in French so the wording is familiar on test day. Practise reading instructions quickly and identifying what each question is asking before you answer.
Plan your break strategy
Find out in advance whether breaks are scheduled, how long they are, and whether you can leave the room. Confirm with the provider, as break rules vary and affect how you should pace yourself.
Prepare for the speaking section, if applicable
If your test includes a speaking component, review the task types and practise speaking aloud in French for a few minutes. Confirm with the provider whether the speaking section is in person, recorded, or conducted online.
Charge and silence your phone before entering
Charge your phone for travel and emergencies, then switch it off or silence it and store it as instructed before entering the test room. Phones are typically not allowed at your desk.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment time, location or online link, and reporting time with the provider. Check the ID requirements and the list of prohibited items. Re-read the test format and section timings, and do one timed practice section in French to check your pace.
Review your weakest areas: vocabulary, grammar points, or listening strategies. Practise reading instructions in French and identifying question types. Avoid starting new topics; consolidate what you already know.
Pack your ID, confirmation, pens or pencils, and any permitted materials. Plan your route and travel time, or test your online setup if testing remotely. Get a full night's sleep and avoid cramming late.
Set two alarms, lay out your clothes and bag, and check the weather and transport updates. Eat a normal meal and stop studying early enough to wind down.
Eat a light breakfast, drink water, and leave with buffer time. Re-check that your ID and confirmation are in your bag. Arrive at the reporting time, not the start time, and follow staff instructions for storing belongings.
Read the instructions for the first section carefully in French. Note the time allowed and set a pace. If a question is unclear, mark it and move on rather than losing time.
Read the questions before the audio plays where the format allows. Focus on the main idea and key details, and do not stop to dwell on a word you missed. Answer every question, since there is usually no penalty for guessing unless the provider states otherwise.
Skim the passage for the main idea, then read the questions and scan for the relevant details. Watch for distractors that repeat words from the passage but do not answer the question. Manage your time so you reach the final questions.
Read the task fully and plan briefly before writing. Address every part of the prompt, use clear structure, and leave a few minutes to check grammar, spelling, and agreement. Keep to the required length and register.
Listen to the examiner or prompt carefully, take a moment to organise your answer, and speak clearly in French. If you do not understand, ask for clarification in French where the format allows. Keep going if you make a mistake rather than stopping.
Use remaining time to check that every question is answered and that your name and details are correct on any answer sheet. After the test, note which sections felt difficult so you can plan any future study or retake.
Rules to check
Bring the government-issued photo ID you registered with, and make sure the name matches your registration. If your ID details differ, confirm with the provider before test day how to proceed.
Follow the provider's rules on what you may bring into the test room. Phones, smartwatches, notes, dictionaries, and other unauthorised materials are typically prohibited; confirm the exact list with the provider.
Arrive at the reporting time stated in your confirmation. Late arrival may mean you are refused entry or lose test time; confirm the provider's late-arrival policy in advance.
Follow all instructions from test centre staff and proctors. If you are testing online, keep your camera and microphone on as required and follow the proctor's directions.
Breaks are usually only permitted at scheduled times. Confirm with the provider whether unscheduled breaks are allowed, whether you can leave the room, and whether the clock stops during breaks.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the test, and do not share or discuss test content afterwards. Test materials are confidential, and misconduct can lead to cancellation of your results.
Scoring rules, including whether wrong answers are penalised and how sections are weighted, vary by provider. Confirm the current scoring policy with the provider rather than assuming.
If something goes wrong, such as a technical failure or a disturbance in the room, raise your hand and tell the proctor immediately. Report any issue to the provider afterwards as well, so there is a record.