On webcam, candidates speak less. And their score drops.
Since January 2026, the TCF Canada has been transitioning to a fully digital format. After June, no test centre will offer face-to-face speaking assessments. Listening and reading comprehension? Same logic, new screen. But the speaking test changes drastically.
The trap
With a human examiner, you get cues: eye contact, nods, follow-up questions. With a webcam, you get nothing. Most candidates shorten their answers without realizing it.
Less speaking time means less evaluable content for the AI. And a CLB that plateaus.
Key points
- After June 2026, the speaking test is webcam-based everywhere in the world.
- Your answers are recorded and analyzed by AI against specific linguistic criteria.
- Shorter answers mean less material to demonstrate B2 and C1 level skills.
Why the camera costs you points
In a face-to-face setting, the examiner prompts you, rephrases, helps you elaborate. With a webcam, the silence after your answer pushes you to wrap up too soon. You think you have said enough. But the AI evaluates the depth of your argumentation, vocabulary range, and sentence complexity. The less you say, the less evidence it has to score you above B1.
How to train in the right format
You need to replicate real conditions: speaking alone, facing a screen, with no human feedback. Our free speaking practice tests put you in exactly this situation. You then receive detailed feedback on development, structure, and response richness.
Ready to reach CLB 7?
After June, there is no choice: webcam for everyone. Better to get used to it now than discover it on test day.
Assess your level for free and practice in the official TCF Canada format.