DELE: Exam preparation

What is the DELE exam?

DELE or "Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera" (In English: Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language) are official diplomas issued by the Spanish Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science. With this exam you can obtain the admission requirements for studying at Spanish universities.

The tests examine the Spanish language proficiency of non-native Spanish speakers from level A1 to C2.

See the table below:

	DELE exam	CEFR	Language stage
1	DELE A1	A1	Breakthrough
2	DELE A2	A2	Preliminary
3	DELE B1	B1	Intermediate
4	DELE B2	B2	Advanced
5	DELE C1	C1	Proficiency
6	DELE C2	C2	Mastery

Differences between SIELE and DELE?

SIELE and DELE are both language proficiency tests in Spanish, but what are the main differences between them?

See the table below to find out:

	DELE	SIELE
Description	Diploma of Spanish language proficiency.	Certificate of proficiency in Spanish.
Entity	Spanish Ministry of Education and Science. Managed by Cervantes Institute.	Cervantes Institute, National Autonomous University of Mexico, University of Salamanca and Universidad de Buenos Aires.
Origin	Spain	Spain, México and Argentina.
Validity	Indefinitely	5 years
Examination	On paper, in testing centres.	On computer, in testing centres.
Level	A1-C2	A1-C1
Result information	Pass or fail system.	Score on a scale of 1000 points equivalent to the CERF levels.
Result notification	2 months	3 weeks

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Why is it useful to take the DELE exam?

These exams are aimed at non-native Spanish speakers and opens many doors for your future professional and academic career.

The DELE diploma is recognized internationally by companies, universities and institutions.
The diploma has no expiry date: it has permanent validity.
The DELE A2 is required to apply for the Spanish nationality (only for citizens of non-speaking Spanish countries).
You can obtain a certificate of the second most spoken language worldwide.

Where is the DELE recognized?

The DELE diploma is internationally recognised by the majority of institutions and companies.

In Spain the DELE is accepted by universities as admission.

How much does the DELE cost?

The table below shows the prices in Spain according to the level chosen:

Level	Price
A1	108€
A2	130€
B1	160€
B2	190€
C1	205€
C2	220€

The price differs for young learners (11-17 years old):

Level	Price
A1	108€
A2/B1	160€

NOTE: The price may vary depending in which centre and country it takes place.

How is the DELE structured?

All certificates regulated by the CEFR follow the same structure; the exam is divided in 4 activities:

Reading comprehension.
Written expression and interaction.
Listening comprehension.
Oral expression and interaction.

All exams differ regarding the level chosen.

For more information on the structure follow the link.

How is the DELE scored?

To obtain the diploma it is necessary to pass all 4 parts.

Level	Valuation
A1	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (30 points in each of the 2 activities).
A2	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (30 points in each of the 2 activities).
B1	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (30/50 for both activities).
B2	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (30/50 for both activities).
C1	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (30 points in each of the 2 activities).
C2	Total score of the DELE exam: 100 points. To pass you need to get at least: 60 points (20 points in each of the 3 activities).

How to register for the exam?

To register for the exam you need to log on the official Instituto Cervantes website first.

Then select an exam location, date and level desired. You can find certified centres in more than 100 countries around the world.

Where and when does the DELE exam take place?

The exam takes place in certified centres in Spain and around the world.

Find the centre closest to you: https://examenes.cervantes.es/es/dele/donde

You can find all the exam dates and informations here.

How to prepare for the DELE exam?

To pass the exam with good grade you need to be prepared in advance on the form of the test. Therefore, you should practice all the 4 activities. Online you can find examples of previous exams.

In addition, it is important to take familiarity with the language by practicing speaking with a mother tongue.

How can I improve my grammar for free?

coLanguage offers 73 lessons and more than 145 exercises, which allow you to learn and understand Spanish grammar.

This way you will improve your grammar for free and pass the exam with excellent grades.

What if I fail the exam?

The exam is repeatable as many times as desired, there are no limitations.

Online tutoring

At coLanguage you'll find professional language teachers who can help you prepare for the DELE exam.

How does it work?

Register as a student on coLanguage and find the right teacher for you.
Arrange your private lessons via Skype.
Teaching geared to the level (A1-C2).
Flexible appointment with the teachers.
Prepare for the exam from anywhere in the world.