From A1 to B1: Navigating the FIDE Exam for Residency in Switzerland
Everything You Need to Know About the Swiss FIDE Exam
If you’re a non-Swiss resident in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, the FIDE exam’s likely on your radar. This examination holds significant importance for those seeking to establish residency in Switzerland.
In this guide, we cover the essentials of the FIDE exam: its purpose, when and where to take it, required language levels for different permits, and how you can prepare for the exam.
Table of Contents
FIDE Exam – What is it?
The FIDE exam, short for “Français, Italiano, Deutsch en Suisse,” is a mandatory language assessment for non-Swiss individuals looking to settle in Switzerland.
The exam evaluates language proficiency from A1 to B1 levels, aligned with the canton’s official language.
It evaluates your ability to communicate effectively—speaking, listening comprehension, writing, and reading—in everyday situations, such as making appointments, handling administrative tasks, asking for directions, and engaging in casual conversations.
Developed on behalf of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), the FIDE test ensures newcomers possess the language skills needed for integration into Swiss society and local life.
What type of test?
The test’s been created to adapt, as much as possible, to your background and personal situation in Switzerland. This is to say that the examiner will try and orient the oral exercises to your experience in the country.
For example, if you live in an apartment building, they may ask you about arrangements in shared spaces such as the laundry room. In contrast, if you live in a house in the countryside, they won’t ask you such questions as you may not be familiar with this aspect of Swiss life.
In this sense, the examination’s inclusive of people from different professional, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.
Language Passport and Eligibility
FIDE test results are documented in a Language Passport, a crucial document for permit renewal or application.
Individuals over the age of 16 are eligible to take the test.
What language do I need to pass?
The cantons around Lake Leman, such as Geneva and Vaud, will require you to pass the French FIDE test. If you live in a bilingual canton, you may have the choice of what language you’ll want to pass the test in.
Disabilities
Special accommodations are available for those with disabilities such as dyslexia or dysgraphia. Arrangements vary based on individual needs.
If this is the case, you should inform the examination institution before the test. Special rules agreed upon between the examination center and the secretariat fide will apply to ensure proper arrangements.
How do you register, when, and where?
The latest you can register is 15 days before the exam date. Due to high-demand and limited spots, early registration is recommended.
The exam’s divided into two: a combined oral & comprehension test, and a combined written & reading test. You can choose to take either or both.
How and where: The examination centers are listed on the FIDE website. You can access the list using the following link. The centers can be sorted by canton.
FIDE exam Geneva: Filter by selecting Geneva “GE” canton.
Price
As of August 2023, the complete test costs 250 CHF. Taken individually, the written test costs 170 CHF, and the oral test 120 CHF.
How long does it take?
As of August 2023, the complete test costs 250 CHF. Taken individually, the written test costs 170 CHF, and the oral test 120 CHF.
Note: you’ll be requested to arrive before so that the examination can start on time.
When do you receive your FIDE test results?
You’ll receive your FIDE test results by post in about four weeks after the examination.
I have another French language certification. Is it recognized?
Recognition depends on factors such as the certification type and validity.
The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) has published a list of recognized language certifications and their conditions. When checking recognition, it’s essential to consider the type of permit you are applying for (B, C, or naturalization).
Update: As of January 1, 2025, it is no longer possible to convert recognized language certificates into the Swiss Language Passport (FIDE). However, recognized language certificates can still be directly submitted to the competent cantonal or municipal authorities for permit applications.
If you are unsure whether your certificate is valid for your application, contact the cantonal office that requested the FIDE test and specify the type of permit renewal you need the certificate for.
List of alternative certifications
Unfortunately, the PDF hasn’t been translated to English.
Certifications recognized by the SEM:
| Certification body | Test name | Levels |
|---|---|---|
| State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) | FIDE | A1 to B1 level |
| France Éducation inter-national (formerly CIEP) | DELF | A2 to B2 level) |
| France Éducation inter-national (formerly CIEP) | TCF | A1 to C2 level |
| Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP) | TEF | A1 to C2 level) |
| Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP) | DFP Affaires | A1 to C2 level |
Note that the canton may only accept a French diploma if you’re in a French-language canton. So, even if you have a higher-level German or Italian certification, this may not be accepted.
People exempt from taking the FIDE test.
The SEM publishes a list of individuals exempt from taking the test. This includes those from countries where the requested language is the national language, individuals who have completed their education in that language, and those who have worked in it, among others.
PDF published by SEM with FAQ concerning exemptions:
These exemptions are sometimes accorded on a person-to-person basis and may require documents of proof.
Example: We received a call at our office (My Linguistics School) from someone seeking information about the FIDE test, and they were fluent in French. They had completed their Baccalaureate at a school where French had been the primary language of instruction many years ago. However, they lost their certification and now needed to take a French test to demonstrate their proficiency, despite clearly being fluent in French.
Different parts of the test
The FIDE test consists of two sections: one that evaluates oral and comprehension skills (assessed as a single exam) and another that separately evaluates writing and reading language skills.
A combination of points from the oral and comprehension sections gives the overall result of the “Speaking” section. The FIDE test is structured to assess both oral and written skills, ensuring that candidates can communicate effectively in real-life situations.
All participants begin with the oral examination. The oral section of the exam always starts with A2-level tasks. After assessing your A2 level, the examiner recommends whether to continue with level A1 or B1. They explain the consequences of the choice to the participant. That said, the final decision to continue with A1 or B1 rests with the participant.
You then take the comprehension section of the exam. The level’s based on the chosen combination from the oral section (so A1-A2 or A2-B1). The result obtained in the oral section counts for two-thirds of the results of the “speaking” section of the exam, and those of the comprehension section, for one-third.
The written and reading part of the exam is done after the spoken one. Unlike the Spoken section, you must choose whether to do the A1-A2 test or the A2-B1 test from the start.
Oral
Independent of the different levels tested, there are always two examiners in the room, one with whom you speak, the other who notes down results. At the end of the exam. The two examiners agree on the final assessment.
Example: For an A2 test, you’ll be shown an image with a situation on it. The image could show a person waiting next to a train, looking at their watch, or speaking to someone by phone. In a bubble image, we see someone waiting next to an apartment building.
The examiner will set the context of the conversation for you. They may say that you’ll discuss apartments and then ask you a series of questions. They may ask you to describe what you see in the image and what you think may be happening.
Then they’ll continue with a role-playing exercise. They could tell you that you’re the person waiting for the train, and they’re the person who managed the apartment building (the régie). The exercise will consist of a casual conversation where they’ll test your ability to hold a simple conversation with the people who manage your appartement.
Finally, they may ask you general questions about life living in an apartment.
Learn more about the spoken test here.
Comprehension
In this section of the exam, you will have the opportunity to listen to a collection of audio clips. Accompanying each clip will be an audio-based question, along with a set of multiple answers displayed as a sequence of three images. Your task will be to identify the accurate answer by choosing one of the three images associated with each question.
For an A1 type of question: you may get an audio clip of a teacher speaking to students and parents during school orientation day. The teacher will introduce themselves and then thank the parents for sitting at the back of the class. Then, the teacher may give some instructions to the children.
Following the audio, you’ll hear a question. This could be, “What do the parents need to do?” In image A, you’ll see children sitting, in image B, parents sitting at the back of the class, and in image C, the teacher speaking with a parent. You need to select the correct image, in this case, image B, and continue the exam.
A2 audios will present you with further information. But normally quite straightforward. As you progress to B1, the audios may include small traps like negatives or double negatives that can disorient you.
Written FIDE test
First, don’t worry too much about this.
Yes, there’s a written exam, but it’s created to test your general understanding of the questions asked and the overall form of writing. The exam doesn’t attribute many, or any in some cases, points to spelling or grammar. The test evaluates whether you can understand the questions asked and write down, even incorrectly spelled, the answers.
For instance, you may be asked to read an invitation sent out by your commune for a barbecue to celebrate the first of August. The invitation will include general information such as the date, time, and contact information. It may also include a section requiring people invited to RSVP.
The examination paper will present you with a situation, such as an email or a text message from a friend. You will then be required to answer questions about details like the date, time, and location of the event by filling in the appropriate responses.
At higher levels, you may be presented with a situation and asked to write a short letter or email.
For instance, you might be asked to request a recommendation from your old apartment manager (régie). In your request, you’ll be asked to include your contact information and date of birth, indicate when you lived there and when you left, explain what you want, and sign off politely.
Reading FIDE test
The reading section, integrated to the writing one, will test your comprehension of a series of texts.
For instance, you might be presented with a scenario where you are applying to a language school and have received information about the levels, prices, and dates. The examination paper will include a series of short texts, each followed by a question with multiple-choice answers. You will need to read the text carefully and select the correct answer from the given options.
Finally, this section may finish with another written test asking you to write an email to the language school requesting additional information. The question will indicate some elements that you need to include in your email such why you’re writing, what you find important in a language course, refer to the information that the school sent you in the previous section etc.
Test FIDE sample exam
You can find a sample of FIDE test online on the FIDE secretariat site. There’s only one official example of the FIDE language test.
You can download the different sections and the accompanying audio.
Suggestion: Print it out for the writing and reading section or complete the writing portion on a program without autocorrect. The exam is administered using paper and pen, so you can’t rely on autocorrect on the actual day.
Required Levels for Different Residence Permits
The required language proficiency varies depending on the permit type. Some cantons, especially German ones, heighten the requirements. However, the cantons of Vaud and Geneva maintain the minimum requirements. Here’s an overview of the levels required for permits in Geneva and Vaud cantons.
Preparing for the FIDE test
How long can it take to get an A1 / A2 / B1 Level in language skills?
*Disclaimer – The following part is some shameless self-promotion for our language center:
If you’ve moved to Switzerland with absolutely no knowledge of French, you’ll either need to take preparatory classes to help you acquire the necessary language skills or attempt to learn on your own. For those who don’t work in a French-speaking environment and whose social circles are primarily non-French-speaking, self-learning may be challenging, though not impossible.
My level’s not bad, but I’d like some help preparing for the exam.
You already have a certain level but want help preparing for the exam. This is normal. It’s nice to go into the exam ready for the types of questions you’ll be asked, and to understand the structure correctly.
We can help you with a 2-hour consultancy to test and examine your level, and provide suggestions to succeed in your examination.
If you want more practice, we can plan personalized language sessions for the hours you prefer, starting with as few as two hours.
40 hours from 0 to A2:
It’s usually possible to attain a written and spoken A2 level in approximately 40 hours through a semi-intense course. For the A1 oral test, we recommend at least 30 hours of study. However, we recommend that you prepare for the A2 test. Overall, it doesn’t take much longer to prepare for this, and if you attain a FIDE A2 on the first try for your Swiss B permit, you can use this when applying for the Swiss C permit (the standard one) a few years later.
Learning a language is a process, and our brain needs time to process and assimilate information. We suggest 3 hours courses a week (3×1 hour classes) over three months to finish 40 hours. It’s possible to do more courses a week, but if you’re not in a work or social environment where you’ll use the language, it’s better to take it slower and get more substantial results in the long term.
Note* the article specifies the A2 test or A1 test as the FIDE test requirements differ from those for the DELF/DALF A2 or A1 language test.
40 hours from A2 to B1:
As you progress, so does the time needed to improve your fluency to the next level. When we speak none of the language, it’s already a big step to communicate on simple matters. Progressing from an A2 to a B1 requires the acquisition of a lot more language in terms of vocabulary, fluency, structure, and comprehension.
Again, for people whose professional and social environment are non-French, we suggest 3 hours a week (3×1 hour classes) of courses to progress from an A2 to B1 in little over three months.
Self-study:
Progressing independently in a language is within your reach. The key is consistent practice. Make the language a natural part of your daily routine, not just a task. Simple actions and small efforts can yield significant results.
Find a link to an article where we outline some self-study best practices.
Registering for the FIDE Test
Registering is an easy process. Here’s how to register:
- Choose your test center: Select a certified examination institution, such as Bell School, that offers the test in the language you wish to be assessed in (French, German, or Italian). Make sure the center is convenient for you to reach on the test date.
- Check the test dates: Verify the available test dates and times for your chosen center. It’s advisable to book your test FIDE well in advance to secure your preferred slot.
- Complete the registration form: Complete the registration documentation (online or paper) provided by the center for the FIDE test, providing all required personal and contact information. Double-check your details to avoid any errors that could delay your registration or results.
- Pay the registration fee: The registration fee for the FIDE test is CHF 250 for the whole test FIDE, CHF 170 for only the oral part, and CHF 120 for only the written part. The payment for the FIDE test is uniform across all examination centers. It is established by the SEM and does not change based on the location.
Arriving to the FIDE Test centre
On the day of the FIDE test, it’s crucial to be well-prepared and know what to expect. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the test day:
- Arrive early: Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled test FIDE time to allow for check-in and preparation. This will give you ample time to settle in and reduce any pre-test anxiety.
- Bring required documents: You must bring a valid ID and any other required documents. Having all necessary documents will ensure a smooth check-in process.
- Before starting the official oral test, you will be asked some general questions. The first part of the FIDE test is not graded. During this section, the examiner asks general questions about your life, such as how long you have been in the country, where you live, and whether you have children. This informal assessment helps determine your spoken level and identify relevant scenarios for the exam. The test focuses on everyday situations, so if a topic does not apply to your routine—such as school-related questions for those without children—it is usually not included.
- If you have come to take the Oral and Listening test (Parler & Comprendre), you will start with the A2 oral (parler) test and then proceed to either A1 or B1. The examination institution will advise you on which level to continue to, but ultimately, the decision is yours. They may ask you to sign a waiver document if you insist on continuing to B1 when they suggested A1. After the oral part of the test, you will move on to the listening section. This may occur immediately afterward, or there may be a break of a few hours.
- The written examination is conducted separately and can take place on the same day or on different days. It is conducted in a room with other individuals being tested and is overseen by an examiner. You have a maximum of one hour to complete either the A1 or A2 test or the A2 or B1 test.
After the FIDE Test: Next Steps
Once you’ve completed the FIDE test, you’ll need to wait at least four weeks to receive your results. Calling the SEM will not speed up this process.
- Wait for your results: Approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the test, the FIDE secretariat will send you your language passport, indicating your results, directly by post. Be patient and keep an eye on your mailbox.
- It’s important that during the examination day you provide your exact address and name on the letter box. Administrative mistakes can delay the time for receiving your results.
- Check your language level: Verify that your language level meets the requirements for your desired residence permit (B permit), settlement permit (C permit), or Swiss naturalization.
- Prepare for further assessments: Depending on your application, you may need to undergo additional assessments or provide further documentation to support your application. Stay informed about any additional requirements and be prepared to meet them.
The author:
My Linguistics specializes in creating language acquisition methods for teachers and students. Our Swiss-based language training center serves as a testing ground for our method.
We’re passionate about helping people unlock the power of language and communication, and we’re committed to providing the resources and support needed to achieve fluency.
Contact us to learn more about our approach and language method.
