Fraud: a risk that can compromise everything

Are you preparing to take the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) ? It’s an important step in your career, that can open doors for your studies, administrative procedures, naturalization/citizenship application or a dream of living abroad

But be cautious ! Certain actions, sometimes perceived as “harmless” or “inconsequential”, can be construed as fraud and can undo all your efforts.

What are the risks of fraud? Please take a few minutes to understand what’s prohibited and what the risks are.

Safeguard your future… and the importance of your certification.

When you register for the TEF, you undertake to comply with the registration and terms of the evaluation defined by the CCI Paris Île-de-France, and in particular the instructions on fraud and the topics shared.

Here is an overview of what is strictly forbidden :

1. Plagiarism : it is forbidden to use externalized content such as websites or artificial intelligence tools to copy or memorize answers.

All work must be personal and must reflect the candidate’s true skills.

2. Cheating : it is forbidden to copy from a neighbour or to use cheat sheets during the tests.

Throughout the test, it is forbidden to communicate or attempt to communicate with neighbours or any other person, for any reason whatsoever.

3. Use of connected devices or objects : the use of electronic devices is strictly forbidden for the entire duration of the TEF tests, including cell phones, smart watches, smart glasses or electronic bracelets, as well as wireless headphones.

All unauthorized electronic equipment must be turned off and put away before the start of the test. Its usage, even accidental, will be considered as an attempt at fraud and may result in the cancellation of the test as well as penalties.

4. Identity theft : having someone else take the test for you, or presenting yourself under a false identity, constitutes a serious offence of fraud, including the use of false identity documents or falsified supporting documents.

5. Falsification  of attestations : Any modification of the information on an attestation received, or presentation of a non-authentic document to prescribing bodies, constitutes a serious fraud.

This practice is strictly forbidden and leads to serious consequences for the candidate.

6. Sharing test topic : photographing or recording test content, then sharing it online or sharing it with other candidates, constitutes a breach of test confidentiality and will be severely penalized.

7. Attempted bribery : attempting to bribe people in order to obtain higher scores is considered a serious act of fraud and is subject to disciplinary action.

In the event of fraud, falsification or disruption of the exam session, the situation is reviewed by the Fraud and Incidents Committee of the CCI Paris Île-de-France.

This involves several stages :

1. Official notification within 48 hours : You will receive an e-mail with acknowledgement of receipt.
2. Right of defence: you can present your version of the facts and be represented by a lawyer.
3. Notification of the Fraud and Incidents Committee’s decision.

Several disciplinary actions may arise :

• Cancellation of results obtained
• Prohibition of retaking the exam for a defined period :
  ➜ 1 year for cheating during the test.
  ➜ 2 years for serious fraud (identity theft, false documents).
• Potential reporting to other partner institutions and prescribers.

Other risks you could encounter :

• Damage to your credibility in your administrative or professional dealings.
• Cancellation or refusal of your application submitted to the relevant organization.
• Risk of legal action.

You can appeal within two months of being notified of the decision.

Once the penalty has been served, you can re-register and retake the TEF in accordance with the rules.

Don’t take a chance on your success: respect the test guidelines! Please do not risk losing it all.

On our website, you’ll find all the study resources you’ll need to ensure that you prepare in the best possible conditions.

Please be cautious! As the TEF is a high-stakes test, there are a lot of frauds out there. Certain individuals or agencies may promise you results for a large amount of money. Please stay away from them by any means!

Make sure your test centre is listed on the Français des affaires website. If in doubt, please contact us.