French B2 Level Resources and Preparation

You’re stepping into the advanced intermediate stage when you reach the French B2 level. At this point, you’re expected to use French independently and confidently across a wide range of real-life, academic, and professional contexts. The language becomes richer, the grammar trickier, and the expectations higher.

So, how do you reach B2 in French? What resources will actually help? And how do you prepare for a French B2 exam like the DELF B2?

Is the French B2 Level Right for You?

• I want to work or study in a French-speaking environment.
• I can follow complex conversations and express my thoughts clearly in French.
• I want to take a recognized language exam like DELF B2.
• I’m ready to go beyond survival French and become a confident communicator.

What to Expect at the French B2 Level

According to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), B2 represents upper-intermediate proficiency. At this stage, you should be able to:

• Understand extended speech and follow complex arguments.
• Interact with native speakers and speak fluently.
• Write clear, structured texts on a wide range of topics.
• Defend your opinions, explain viewpoints, and discuss abstract themes.

The French B2 Exam: What You’ll Be Tested On

The B2 exam evaluates your skills across four key areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Let’s break down each section and explore the most effective ways to prepare.

1) Speaking: Express Complex Ideas with Confidence

You’ll be asked to express opinions, present arguments, and participate in social, cultural, or political discussions. Practicing these structured conversations is key.

Pro Tip: Preply connects you with experienced French tutors for 1-on-1 lessons tailored to your goals. It’s a great way to build confidence, get real-time feedback, and simulate DELF B2-style speaking tasks—so you can express your ideas naturally and fluently.

2) Listening: Understand Real-Life French

In the listening section, you will hear audio recordings, such as news reports, interviews, and conversations on complex topics. You’ll need to understand the main ideas, identify key information, and understand different accents and speaking speeds.

Listening to the news in French or watching documentaries is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the language. Channels like RFI Savoirs, TV5 Monde, and ARTE offer a vast selection of engaging content, covering a wide range of topics. Some of their materials are even designed specifically for French learners!

If you prefer audio content, explore podcasts on subjects that interest you. Here are our favorite French podcasts for French learners:

And for music lovers, check out “Tendances Musicales” to practice your listening skills in a more relaxed and enjoyable way.

Try This: Our lingoni French podcasts feature a mix of conversations and solo episodes on a wide range of B2-level topics, such as cheese, wine, zero waste, interviews with professionals (like a nurse), and even islands for sale. These episodes help you train your ear to different speaking styles, accents, and speeds, boosting your listening skills at an advanced level.

If you’re a movie lover, diving into French cinema is a must! And it is a great way to boost your listening comprehension skills. In the following video, Alicia shares her top picks of the best French films for language learners.

3) Reading: Analyze Longer, More Formal Texts

Expect opinion pieces, magazine articles, or public announcements. You’ll need to identify the tone, main arguments, and contextual clues.

Practice with:

• French newspapers—read daily for 15 minutes.
• Audiobooks—read along while listening to a native speaker.
• Books and magazines—regular reading strengthens comprehension at the B2 level.

4) Writing: Structure Your Thoughts Clearly

You might write a formal letter, persuasive essay, or report. Clarity, logic, and proper grammar are critical.

At the B2 level, one of the best ways to practice writing tasks before an exam is to follow a structured approach—and a great resource for this is Production écrite DELF B2 by Stéphane Wattier.

This book covers essential writing skills, including how to generate ideas, proofread effectively, and correct mistakes. It is specifically designed to help candidates become more independent in their writing, building the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the exam.

Where to Take the French B2 Exam

• DELF B2: The most recognized certification. Available at Alliance Française and other accredited centers worldwide.
• TCF and TEF: Often required for immigration or university programs in France or Canada.

Recommended Resources for Reaching B2 in French

There is a wide range of online resources available to help you prepare for the B2 French exam. We recommend the following trusted tools and study materials to ensure your success.

lingoni French

lingoni French is designed specifically for intermediate and advanced learners. With our B2-focused content, you’ll find:

• Native-speaker videos
• Downloadable resources
• Grammar and vocabulary training
• Pronunciation tool
• Podcasts with listening comprehension exercises

Start now: Explore lingoni French to build confidence and fluency at the B2 level!

Textbooks

• Alter Ego+ B2 – A classic for B2 learners, packed with real-world themes.
• Édito B2 – Good for test prep and grammar review.
• Grammaire progressive du français – Niveau avancé – Grammar deep dive for ambitious learners.

Podcasts & YouTube Channels

• lingoni FRENCH – A variety of content, including grammar and vocabulary lessons, topic-based discussions, listening and pronunciation practice, exam tips, and cultural insights.
• InnerFrench – Slow-spoken, thoughtful content on advanced topics.
• Français Authentique – Natural French for everyday use.
• TV5MONDE, France 24, Brut. – Stay updated with current events in French.

Speaking Practice

• Italki / Preply / Lingoda – Affordable, flexible private tutoring online.
• Tandem / HelloTalk – Practice with native speakers via language exchange.
• Reddit r/French / Discord – Join active communities for feedback and advice.

Tips for Success at the B2 Level

• Immerse yourself in native content—daily podcasts, series, and news.
• Speak regularly—even 10 minutes a day makes a difference.
• Review advanced grammar like the subjonctif, conditionnel, and discours indirect.
• Write short essays weekly and ask for corrections.
• Practice pronunciation and intonation using shadowing exercises.

Conclusion

Reaching B2 in French is a huge milestone. You’ll be ready to study, work, and live in French-speaking environments with greater independence. Whether you’re preparing for the DELF exam or simply want to communicate confidently, consistency is key.

With the right combination of immersive content, structured study, and practical speaking experience—plus the support of lingoni French—you’ll be ready to succeed.

Bonne chance et bon courage !