Pass the FIDE Test in Geneva
With Personalized Tuition

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

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

Contact our team today.

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What do our students say?
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“ This is an excellent course. The technique used is very innovative. It motivate and help you understand and encourage to speak in French. The teacher was very patient and helped motivate me to learn, understand and speak in French. “
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“ I’ve very much enjoyed the French course. The teacher adapts the course to your personal level and will encourage you to get out of your comfort zone. I was quickly able to order coffee and request basic things at shops. Highly recommended!“
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“ 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. “
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The FIDE Test: Your Language Passport to Life in Switzerland

The FIDE test is a standardized test of your French ability that is required when you apply for naturalization, a residence permit, or a settlement permit.

The FIDE test consists of a series of activities and exercises designed to assess your French language skills. It includes a written part, an oral part, a reading part, and a listening part.

The test includes vocabulary and constructions you’re likely to hear around Geneva, such as work-related subjects, attending the doctor’s, making a payment, and going shopping.

That’s why My Linguistics takes a speaking-first approach: to help students like you improve their speaking and listening confidence first, ensuring they meet their exam objectives.

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FIDE preparation Lessons From 100 CHF/Hour

At My Linguistics, we specialize in preparing students for the FIDE exam with a proven track record of success. Our tailored packages are designed to meet a variety of needs, from light preparation for those with solid foundations to intensive courses for individuals requiring last-minute support.

With access to a wide range of preparation materials, mock tests, and scenario-based practice, we ensure that you go into your exam fully equipped and confident. Let us guide you there.

FIDE preparation
1 Student
3 hours: 360 CHF

(120 CHF/hour)

Key Benefits:
  • Introduction to the exam (information session)
  • Assessment of current level (mock FIDE test)
  • 2-hour conversational preparation session
  • 1 correction of writing and reading test
  • Platform access not included
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FIDE preparation
1 Student
5 hours: 575 CHF

(115 CHF/hour)

Key Benefits:
  • Introduction to the exam (information session)
  • Assessment of current level (mock FIDE test)
  • 4-hour conversational preparation session
  • 2 correction of writing and reading test
  • Platform access included
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FIDE – Next level
1 Student
10 hours +

(Pricing based on private class rates)

Ideal for:
  • Individuals needing to pass the FIDE exam urgently but who are significantly below the required level
    Those seeking a fast-tracked combination of general French improvement and exam-specific preparation
  • Platform access included
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Why study the FIDE test with My Linguistics
FIDE Success with My Linguistics
Flexible Schedule

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

Speaking-Focussed

Our lessons focus on building confidence and speaking fluently, helping you focus on doing well in the oral part of the exam.

Role-Play Based Learning

Our classes are designed to help you learn French in an active, engaging way, prioritizing the vocabulary you need for daily life.

In-Person Classes

Choose your preferred group class location: In our Geneva office or a location of your choice.

Beginner to Advanced

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

FIDE Support

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

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.

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Comprehensive FIDE Preparation Materials

Study materials and sample tests

We’ve developed extensive FIDE preparation materials and mock tests. These resources are based on a detailed analysis and revision of the FIDE examination evaluation criteria and exam situations.

We offer a full range of practice papers for the A1, A2, and B1 spoken tests, ensuring that students become familiar with the specific question formats and real-life scenarios they will face. Additionally, our growing collection of audio recordings supports comprehension skills for the listening sections of the exam.

Students are given access to our online preparation platform, which they can use both at home and during classes. This platform features exam-specific materials, mock tests, and targeted exercises to help them achieve their required A1-A2 or A2-B1 level.

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Course Features/ Our Approach to FIDE Test Prep

Our Winning Strategies to FIDE Testing Preparation

At My Linguistics, we’re committed to helping you prepare for the FIDE test. With a focus on speaking, our classes ensure that you spend a significant portion of your time conversing in French and learning the helpful structures you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in your exam.
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Our structured lessons cover reading, writing, listening, and speaking, using engaging activities to keep you motivated. Through scenario exercises, you’ll practice real-life situations, making learning practical and fun from day one.

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We make learning the language straightforward, with no tedious text books and no lengthy grammar drills — even for the written part! Then, with dynamic activities and lessons tailored around your unique interests, you’ll rapidly develop the skills you need for life in Geneva.

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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.

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FAQs

FIDE Test Preparation 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 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.

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.

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.