The DELE Exams

The DELE Exams

The DELE Exams

What is it the DELE?

The DELE (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera) are the official diplomas for the Spanish language. They are issued by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science. They attest the Spanish language proficiency of people who learn Spanish as a foreign language. The Common European Framework of References for languages (A1 – C2) is used for dividing the different levels.

How is the DELE conducted?

The DELE test four different areas: the reading comprehension, the writing expression, listening comprehension and oral communication. Each section accounts for 25 points. To pass the levels A1 – C1 the examinee needs to get at least 30 points from the reading comprehension and written expression and 30 points from the listening comprehension and oral communication.

The exams can be taken on certain dates which can be found on the website of Instituto Cervantes.

Price & Inscription

The price for the exam depends on the level of the exam and the country where you are taking it. If you are a student at university or have already taken a DELE before, you might be eligible for a discount.

For the inscription you need to fill out the form on the website of Instituto Cervantes, choose an examination centre and make a copy/scan of your ID or Passport.

How to prepare for the DELE?

The best way of preparing yourself for the DELE is by taking a preparation course at a Spanish Language School like Academia CILE.

Cile offers two different kinds of courses for the DELE preparation. You can choose between a course with 4 lessons per day (2 lessons DELE preparation + 2 lessons conversation or grammar) or a course with 6 lessons per day (2 lessons DELE + 2 lesson conversation + 2 grammar). We will help you to pass the DELE. You can check out our DELE courses here:

Furthermore, you can find old DELE exams with solutions online and use them to practice for the exam or buy DELE preparation books.

Reasons to take the DELE

  1. The DELE certificates are valid permanently. You will never have to renew it once you have passed the exam.

  2. The exam is held by Cervantes and is internationally recognized. Therefore, it will be a valuable addition to your resumé.

  3. If you want to get the Spanish citizenship or want to study at a Spanish university you will need a DELE.