Pass the FIDE Test in Geneva with Personalized Tuition

Prepare for your FIDE test in Geneva: A1, A2, B1.

Start building your language skills to pass the FIDE test in Geneva with expert tuition from our French tutors. Improve your vocabulary, build confidence in speaking, and learn daily French.

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The FIDE Test: Your language passport to life in Switzerland

The FIDE test is an official exam that certifies your French language skills for naturalization, residence permits, or settlement permits in Switzerland. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Want to dive deeper? Read our full guides:

Read: How to pass the FIDE exam (A1 to B1)

Complete guide to the FIDE speaking test

At My Linguistics, we help you prepare with a speaking-first approach — building your oral confidence from the start to ensure you meet your FIDE exam goals.

How we help you prepare for the FIDE test

Speaking-first methodology — Develop the real-world oral skills you need to pass the speaking and listening sections confidently.

Full access to mock tests and practice exercises — Practice with 100+ FIDE-style tests covering speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing.

Personalized study plans — Tailored roadmaps based on your current level, target FIDE level (A1, A2, or B1), and learning timeline.

Flexible scheduling and online access — Take classes in person in Geneva or online, with full digital access to practice resources.

Native-speaking instructors — Work with experienced teachers who guide you with real exam strategies and targeted feedback.

Explore our FIDE preparation options ?

Find out more about our practice papers

Ready to see how you can practice for the FIDE test?

Practice for the FIDE test with official and model tests

Prepare anytime with full access to our dedicated online learning platform

Preparing for the FIDE test means practicing real-world speaking, listening, reading, and writing tasks — the skills you’ll need to pass confidently.

At My Linguistics, we give you full access to over 100 FIDE-style model tests through our dedicated online learning platform.

To prepare thoroughly, you’ll also train with our exclusive library of model papers, developed to match the test structure, topics, and difficulty level you’ll encounter at A2 and B1 levels.

Our practice papers focus especially on two key areas: building your confidence in speaking (“Parler”) and strengthening your comprehension (“Comprendre”) in everyday situations.

Each model test helps you work on realistic exam questions, practical French conversation topics, and real-life vocabulary you’ll likely encounter in Geneva and across Switzerland.

Find out more about our practice papers

My Linguistic practice paper

Access our full collection of FIDE practice papers when you join a FIDE preparation course.

Preview our FIDE A2 preparation paper

Official FIDE model test

You can begin with the official FIDE model test, which is publicly available here:

Official FIDE model test

But preparation doesn’t stop at practice — let’s build your personalized plan.

Your personalized study plan

At My Linguistics, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all preparation.

When you join a FIDE test preparation course, we first create a personalized study plan based on your placement test results, your goals, and your current level of French.

Your plan includes:

A clear roadmap to your target FIDE test level (A1, A2, or B1)

Priority areas to strengthen your speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing

Access to targeted exercises, FIDE test practice papers, and progress tracking on our digital platform

Get Your Personalized Study Plan

Once you know your path, it’s time to aim for your target FIDE level.

Prepare for Your Target FIDE Level

At My Linguistics, we prepare you for all key FIDE levels — A1, A2, and B1 — depending on your objectives and timeline.

The FIDE levels are linked to permit requirements, but if time allows, we often recommend aiming for a higher level. Achieving a stronger grade now can save you time, money, and stress later, especially if you plan to renew your permit, apply for settlement, or naturalize in the future.

Our preparation courses cover both oral (speaking and listening) and writing (reading and written expression) skills, giving you the full support you need for the FIDE exam.

Which FIDE level should I prepare for?

The level you need depends on your permit or citizenship goals. A1 is required for a residence permit, A2 for regular settlement, and B1 for naturalization or early settlement. Preparing for a higher level can save time later.

Here’s what you can work toward:

Focus: Building essential oral comprehension and basic speaking skills for daily situations
Skills you’ll develop:

Express yourself in short conversations
Understand basic information (shopping, doctor’s visits, transport, etc.)
Use practical, real-life vocabulary to prove your communication abilities

Ideal for starting your French journey — and for meeting basic FIDE oral requirements for first-time residence permits (Permis B).

Focus: Strengthening speaking, listening, and basic writing skills
Skills you’ll develop:

Communicate effectively for services, appointments, and everyday needs
Fill out simple forms and understand basic written documents
Hold conversations on familiar topics fluently enough to prove your A2 oral skills

Important:

To obtain a regular settlement permit (Permis C), you must demonstrate A2 oral and A1 writing proficiency.
Our preparation covers both — ensuring you are ready for the oral exam and the written forms, letters, and reading tasks.

Focus: Developing confident oral interaction and advanced writing skills for formal communication
Skills you’ll develop:

Express opinions and preferences clearly in conversation
Explain advantages and disadvantages of situations
Understand detailed conversations and documents
Write formal emails, service requests, and administrative replies — and prove your French skills at the highest FIDE-required level

Important:
For naturalization and early settlement (accelerated Permis C), you must demonstrate B1 oral and A2 writing proficiency.
Our courses prepare you for both parts — helping you confidently meet all the requirements for citizenship or long-term residency.

We offer a free placement evaluation, either online or in person. It includes a short oral and listening assessment to accurately determine your current level and create a customized study plan.

This evaluation can be done in person, via Zoom/Teams, or by phone — although in-person or video sessions are preferred, as they allow us to assess both your oral skills and your listening comprehension through a short, practical exercise.

Many candidates misjudge their level when it comes to the FIDE exam.

That’s why we take the time to check carefully: some students may need just a few targeted sessions to become comfortable with the exam format, while others may benefit from more in-depth French preparation to strengthen their speaking, listening, or structural fluency.

With an accurate evaluation, we can design a personalized study plan that fits your timeline, your goals, and your current abilities — ensuring that you prepare efficiently and confidently.

Find Your Target Level

FIDE preparation courses in Geneva: Packages and pricing

At My Linguistics, we offer flexible FIDE preparation options to match your goals and timeline. All programs include mock tests, targeted speaking practice, and real exam strategies.

FIDE Starter Package – 3 hours

1 Student

3 hours: 300 CHF

Focused preparation for confident exam day.

Key Benefits:

Introduction to the exam and requirements
Assessment with a mock FIDE test
2-hour conversational preparation session
1 correction of writing and reading tests

Ideal if you already have a solid French foundation and need targeted exam practice.

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FIDE Essentials Package – 5 hours

1 Student

500 CHF

Comprehensive coverage with more practice time.

Key Benefits:

Introduction and full exam strategy session
Assessment with a mock FIDE test
4 hours of speaking-focused lessons
2 corrections of writing and reading tests
Platform access included

Ideal if you want structured, full preparation across all exam sections.

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FIDE Complete – 10 hours or more

Private or Small group course

10 hours +

(Pricing based on private or group class rates)

Ideal for:

Customized course combining general French improvement and exam-specific strategies
Full platform access to materials, exercises, and mock tests
Focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing development

Ideal if you are starting from a lower level or need fast, intensive progress to reach your FIDE objectives.

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What do our students say?

“ I booked a course of French lessons in preparation for the FIDE test and the course exceeded my expectations. My instructor was very personable, as well as being patient and instantly put me at ease. I had some knowledge of French but lacked confidence and that really grew as the course progressed.“

Fashion industry

FIDE preparation

“ I had a couple of online lessons with my instructor to prepare for my FIDE exam (Oral and writing). They really helped and were tailored perfectly to the exam format. The lessons increased my confidence and my instructor answered all my questions. He also provided some hints and tips on likely subjects.“

Sports Industry

FIDE preparation

“ Learning French has been easy and fun—words I would never have used to describe my French classes before in other institutions! I stopped trying to learn the language for years because I thought maybe it just wasn’t for me, but the approach used here makes you believe in yourself.“

Psychologist

French classes

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How to join

Easily Pass the FIDE Test

1

Book a Consultation

First, schedule a free consultation with our expert teaching staff. We’ll get to know you, understand your goals, and help you find a class option that suits your schedule, budget, and objectives.

2

Take a Placement Test

Next, take a straightforward placement test to determine your current French language level. This will help us create a tailored learning plan based on your experience.

3

Join a Trial Class

Not sure if our group classes are right for you? Join a free discovery or trial class to see our methodology in action.

4

Start Your Classes

It’s time for class! Our professional teachers will create a structured approach based on your group’s goals and prior French levels. Each class is on-site in our Geneva office.

Have a question? Let’s chat.

Why study the FIDE test with My Linguistics

FIDE Success with My Linguistics

In-person or online classes in Geneva

Choose your preferred group class location: in our Geneva office or another location that fits your needs.

Speaking-Focused Preparation

Spend a significant portion of your lessons actively speaking in French, practicing realistic exam scenarios instead of passively listening or memorizing rules.

Practical, Dynamic Learning

Learn through structured role-plays, real-life situations, and conversation-driven activities — not dry textbooks or endless grammar drills.

Flexible Schedule

Create a class calendar around your commitments and choose a time that suits you for class.

Tailored to All Levels

No matter what level you’re starting at, your language course is fitted to you and your goals.

Expert FIDE Support

Our experts assist you in navigating FIDE, permit requirements, various levels, and administrative questions.

Fast track your FIDE success today

Our language instructors will help you find the ideal class, allowing you to take the test without stress. Schedule a free consultation with our FIDE teaching team and begin preparing for your exam today.

Book a Consultation

FAQs

FIDE Test Preparation in Geneva FAQs

The FIDE test (Français, Italiano, Deutsch en Suisse) is an official language assessment used to evaluate your proficiency in one of Switzerland’s three main national languages: French, German, or Italian.

The test is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and assesses candidates at levels A1 to B1, depending on the specific requirements of their application.

It measures both oral and written comprehension and production, ensuring that applicants can communicate effectively in everyday situations. The test evaluates candidates at levels A1-A2 and A2-B1, based on permit requirements.

My Lingusitcs article on FIDE

Article on FIDE spoken examination

The FIDE test is required for individuals applying for:

Swiss naturalization (citizenship application)
A residence permit (Permis B)
A settlement permit (Permis C)

Since language requirements vary by canton, it is essential to check which language is required in your place of residence. In Geneva, French is mandatory, as it is the official administrative language of the canton. Target group: Adults (16 years and older).

FIDE Language requirements

The test assesses candidates at levels A1-A2 and A2-B1, depending on permit requirements.The test is divided into two main parts:

“Parler et comprendre” (Speaking and Listening) – Assesses oral communication skills in real-life situations.
“Lire et écrire” (Reading and Writing) – Tests the ability to read and write in the chosen language.

Some applicants may only need to complete the oral component, while others may be required to take both sections.

As of 2025, it is no longer possible to obtain the language passport using a recognized language diploma (e.g., DELF, Goethe, or PLIDA certificates) as proof of language proficiency. Instead, candidates must take the FIDE test to receive their official test results.

My Lingusitcs article on FIDE

At My Linguistics, our beginner course is an excellent starting point for preparing for the FIDE. With our comprehensive methodology, unique learning approach, and experienced instructors, all of our French language courses are designed to help learners pass the FIDE test. It typically takes about 20 hours to progress from 0 to A1, another 20 hours to advance from A1 to A2, and an additional 40 hours to reach the B1 level.

Language proficiency requirements differ based on the type of residence permit. Certain cantons, particularly those in German-speaking regions, tend to impose stricter criteria. In contrast, the cantons of Vaud and Geneva adhere to the minimum standards. Below is a summary of the language levels needed for permits in the Geneva and Vaud regions.

Permis B (Standard Residence Permit):
Required Level: FIDE A1 oral (Speaking & Comprehension)

Permis C (Long-Term Residence Permit):
Regular (after 10 years of residency):
– Speaking & Comprehension: Level A2
– Writing & Reading: Level A1
Anticipated (after 5 years of residency):
– Speaking & Comprehension: Level B1
– Writing & Reading: Level A1

Naturalization:
Required Levels:
Speaking & Comprehension: Level B1
Writing & Reading: Level A2

For more information, visit the SEM page on language requirements.

The FIDE test is administered at authorized testing centers across the country. Due to limited test places, registration must be completed in advance. Results are typically received within four weeks after the test date.

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is the Swiss federal authority responsible for immigration, residency, and naturalization regulations. It oversees the FIDE test as part of the language requirements for obtaining a residence permit (Permis B or C) or Swiss naturalization.

The SEM recognizes the FIDE test results as official proof of language proficiency in French, German, or Italian. It also sets the required levels (A1-A2 or A2-B1) for different permits and ensures that the language passport issued after the test is valid for administrative purposes.

Understanding the specific language requirements for your application and registering for the test early ensures a smooth process when applying for residency or citizenship in Switzerland.

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is the Swiss federal authority responsible for matters related to immigration, residency, naturalization, and asylum. It oversees the FIDE test and establishes the official language requirements for foreign nationals applying for permits and Swiss citizenship.

The SEM ensures that resident foreign nationals demonstrate sufficient language proficiency to integrate successfully into Swiss life, whether for gainful employment, long-term residency, or naturalization.

As the examination institution supervising the FIDE program, the SEM sets the standards for speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing at the A1, A2, and B1 levels. Candidates who meet the required levels — often after five years of residency for a settlement permit — receive official recognition through a language passport.

The language passport is an official document issued after completing the FIDE test, certifying your proficiency at levels A1-A2 or A2-B1. It serves as proof of your language skills when applying for a residence permit (Permis B or C) or Swiss naturalization.

Your language passport includes:

Your FIDE test results
The officially recognized level you achieved (e.g., A1-A2 for oral or A2-B1 written).
Acceptance by Swiss authorities, including the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and cantonal offices.

If you take only the oral part, your language passport will indicate your speaking and listening level, which may be sufficient for certain residence permits. If you need a higher level, you can retake the FIDE test or prepare with a model test to improve your test results.

This document remains valid for an unlimited period and can be used in future administrative procedures related to residency and citizenship in Switzerland.

You can take the FIDE test at any time of the year. However, it is essential to consider a few seasonal factors.

During December, January, and August, administrative offices often have holiday closures or slower processing times. If you need to submit documents for a residence renewal or naturalization, it’s wise to plan.

Additionally, June and July can be more challenging months for studying. With warmer weather and summer activities, language learning sometimes takes a backseat to other priorities. Staying consistent with your preparation during this period may require extra planning.

Whenever you decide to begin, early preparation always gives you more flexibility and confidence before your test date.

Classes can be organized online or directly in our offices in Geneva city centre, a short distance from Lake Geneva and Cornavin, the central train station.

Address: Rue des Alpes, 1201, Geneva, Switzerland.

Special rules ensure equal access to the FIDE test, so individuals with disabilities may request accommodations. Candidates may receive extra time, alternative test formats, or assistance during the exam.

In some cases, special rules apply for certain test sections. To apply for these accommodations, candidates must submit a formal request to the FIDE office along with medical documentation.

Understanding the specific language requirements for your application and registering for the test early ensures a smooth process when applying for residency or citizenship in Switzerland.