The DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera, Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language) is the official diploma that certifies your level of Spanish. It's awarded by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of Spain's Ministry of Education, it has six levels (A1 to C2), it's recognised all over the world and it never expires: once you pass, the diploma is yours for life.

Here are the basics you need to know before you register: which levels there are, what the exam is like, the score you need, what it's for, when and where you can take it and how much it costs.

What DELE levels are there?

There are six general exams, one for each level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR):

You can go straight for the level you choose, without having passed the one below, and if you get the APTO (pass) you receive the diploma for that level. The general exams are open to people of all ages, although they're aimed at people aged 16 and over.

Is there a DELE for children and teenagers?

Yes. There are three DELE exams for schools, designed for students aged 11 to 17:

  • DELE A1 for schools.
  • DELE A2/B1 for schools.
  • DELE B2/C1 for schools (new since 2026).

The last two are dual-outcome exams: it's a single exam and, depending on your result, you get one of the two levels. The topics and situations are designed for young people, but the diploma is just as valid as the one from the general exams. There are two school sessions a year, in May and November.

How many parts does the DELE exam have?

From A1 to B2 there are four tests worth 25 points each: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written expression and interaction, and oral expression and interaction.

At C1 there are also four, but they include language use and mediation: reading comprehension and use of language; listening comprehension and use of language; written expression, mediation and interaction; and oral expression, mediation and interaction.

At C2 there are three: integrated skills (use of language, reading and listening comprehension); written expression, mediation and interaction; and oral expression, mediation and interaction.

The written tests are done on paper at the exam centre. The speaking test is also in person (it can't be done online) and may be on the same day as the written tests or on another nearby day, depending on your centre.

What score do you need to pass the DELE?

The final result is APTO (pass) or NO APTO (fail). From A1 to C1, the four tests are split into two groups: reading + writing, and listening + speaking. You need at least 30 out of 50 points in each group, and the groups don't compensate each other: if you get 28 in one, you fail even if you score 45 in the other. At C2 you need at least 60% in each of the three tests (20 of their 33.33 points).

I explain what's assessed in each test in how the DELE is graded.

What is the DELE for?

  • Spanish citizenship: you need the DELE A2 or higher, together with the CCSE. I cover it in DELE A2 for Spanish citizenship.
  • Studying: many universities ask you to prove your level of Spanish. Always check which level and which certificate they accept.
  • Working: in Spain, for example, it's recognised for the MIR and FIR (medical and pharmacy specialist training), and in any country it's a plus on your CV.
  • Education systems, institutions and companies in many countries recognise it as an official certificate.

Which DELE level do I need?

It depends on your goal: for citizenship, A2 at least; for studying or working, whatever each institution or employer asks for. If you don't know your level, take the free level test first. And if you're torn between the two highest levels, here's my comparison of DELE C1 or C2.

When and where can you take the DELE?

The DELE has sessions on fixed dates, and not every level is offered at every session. You'll find the calendar by level in DELE exam dates 2027.

It's taken in person at exam centres accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, more than a thousand worldwide. Find yours on the Instituto Cervantes' official exams website. If you're sitting it in Spain, I walk you through registration step by step in how to register for the DELE.

How much does the DELE cost?

It depends on the level and the country. In Spain, in 2026: A1, €112; A2, €138; B1, €173; B2, €204; C1, €225; C2, €240. Outside Spain, each country has its own fees.

When do the results and the diploma arrive?

Results come out about two months after the written tests (about three for the May and November sessions). They arrive by email with your grade certificate and, if you pass, your digital diploma comes in that same email; there's no extra wait. You can also download it from your personal area. More details in DELE results: when they come out.

DELE or SIELE?

The SIELE is another Spanish exam the Instituto Cervantes is involved in, but it works differently: it's taken on a computer, it gives you a score (up to C1) and it's valid for five years. The DELE is a diploma by level that never expires, and it's the one required for citizenship. You'll find the full comparison in DELE or SIELE.

Frequently asked questions about the DELE

Does the DELE expire?

No. The DELE diploma is valid indefinitely, including old diplomas issued before 2008.

Do I have to pass A2 before taking B1?

No. You can go straight for the level you want, without having taken another DELE or any course first.

Can I take the speaking test online?

No. All the DELE tests, speaking included, are taken in person at the exam centre.

If I fail, are the parts I passed kept?

No. If you get a NO APTO, at the next session you have to retake all the tests and pay the registration fee again.

Can native Spanish speakers take it?

Yes. Since 2015, anyone can register for a DELE, whatever their nationality or origin.

In short

  • The DELE is the Instituto Cervantes' official Spanish diploma, and it never expires.
  • There are six general levels (A1 to C2) and three school exams (A1, A2/B1 and B2/C1).
  • From A1 to C1 you need 30 out of 50 points in each group of tests; at C2, 60% in each test.
  • It's used for Spanish citizenship (A2 or higher), for studying and for working.
  • It's taken in person, on fixed dates, at more than a thousand centres worldwide.
  • Results come out in about two months (three in May and November), and the digital diploma arrives in the same email.

If you want to prepare for it, my online courses for A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 give you strategies for each test, commented examples, a community, a Q&A chat and group calls. On my YouTube channel I also share free tips and resources, and if you'd like deadline reminders before each session, join the newsletter 💌.

¡A por el DELE! 🇪🇸