DELE B1: exam structure, dates and how to prepare

The official Instituto Cervantes qualification that certifies an intermediate level: the Spanish you need for work, studies and everyday life. It never expires.
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What is the DELE B1?

The DELE B1 certifies an intermediate level of Spanish: you understand the main points of everyday texts and conversations, and you can describe experiences and justify your opinions. It is the first qualification many institutions accept as official proof of Spanish, and the natural step after A2. Like every DELE, it never expires.

Exam structure

PruebaDuraciónTareas
Comprensión de lectura70 min5
Comprensión auditiva40 min5
Expresión e interacción escritas60 min2
Expresión e interacción orales15 min (+15 de preparación)4

How it is scored

The four papers are grouped into two blocks: Group 1 (reading + writing) and Group 2 (listening + speaking). Each group is worth 50 points and you need at least 30 out of 50 in each group to get your PASS (apto). The groups do not compensate each other: you can ace the reading and still fail because of the speaking.

2026 dates and registration deadlines

There are two remaining exam sessions with B1 in 2026: Friday 16 October (registration closes in early September) and 13–14 November (registration closes on 30 September). You register at examenes.cervantes.es. Examiner's tip: don't wait until the last day — places at the most popular centres sell out.

How to prepare

Online DELE B1 course created by an accredited official examiner: up-to-date practice tests that simulate the exam, correction of your writing and speaking, one-time payment and lifetime access for €75.

See the DELE B1 course

Prefer paper? There's also the DELE B1 book on Amazon. Not sure if your level is A2 or B1? Take the free level test.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to prepare for the DELE B1?

With an intermediate base, between 8 and 12 weeks of consistent practice with up-to-date models that simulate the exam.

What score do I need to pass?

At least 30 out of 50 points in each group. The total doesn't matter: the groups do.

When are the results published?

Instituto Cervantes publishes results approximately 2–3 months after the exam.

Does the B1 qualify for Spanish citizenship?

For citizenship the DELE A2 is enough, but B1 is the usual minimum for many academic and employment procedures.