What is the difference between LILATE and DCL?
Below is a comparison table of the attributes of LILATE VS DCL to help you compare them:
Criteria | LILATE® | DCL |
|---|---|---|
Objective | Certify the competences of a non-native speaker to work in a foreign language. | Attest the competences acquired in language for everyday and professional communication common to all economic sectors. |
Flexibility | Available in almost all foreign languages. Adaptable to specific sectors. | Available in 10 languages (German, English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, French as a Foreign Language, Italian, French Sign Language (LSF), Portuguese and Russian). |
Skills assessed | Conversation, written comprehension, written expression, oral comprehension and oral expression in a professional context. | Oral interactions, written comprehension, written expression, oral comprehension and spoken expression. |
Levels assessed | All levels (A1 to C2) | A1 to C1 |
Target level(s) | Certified from level A2 for LSF and B1 for others. | A1 to C1 |
Test duration | 60 min | 2h30 (1h30 for Professional French) |
Availability | Organised throughout the year on weekdays as well as weekends (examiner availability). | Depending on the availability of accredited centres. |
Evaluation mode | Skills assessed by level. Evaluation carried out by native-language examiners throughout the session. | A single test for all candidates. Result based on performance. |
Registration modalities | Purchase possible at any time. After purchase, you directly access the calendar to schedule your session, with a minimum notice of 24 hours before the exam. | Registration mandatory about two months before the session. Registration periods are fixed and available on the website. No registration is accepted outside these periods. |
Eligible for CPF | YES | YES |
Result delivery | Within 24 hours. | No clear indication in this regard. |
Conclusion
The LILATE and DCL (Diplôme de Compétence en Langue) certifications show certain differences in their approach and purpose.
LILATE stands out for its personalized and modern evaluation, offering candidates a dynamic and adaptable approach that takes into account their linguistic skills in real and varied contexts. Whereas the DCL imposes the same single evaluation for all candidates, thus seen as a more standardized approach.
With a shorter test duration (60 minutes versus 2h30 for the DCL), extended availability year-round, and evaluation by native language examiners, LILATE guarantees a more dynamic and less burdensome experience for candidates.
In conclusion, the choice between LILATE and DCL will therefore depend on individual objectives. Thus, it is essential to consider your professional aspirations, your specific language needs and the context in which you plan to use a foreign language. However, if these align with the individual and customizable aspect, then LILATE is the more judicious choice.
Updated on: 11/09/2025
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