If you want to certify your Spanish level officially, Dele diplomas are your best option. Whether for studying at a Spanish-speaking university, improving job opportunities, or even residency procedures in some countries, this diploma opens many doors.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the Spanish Dele exam: what it consists of, how to register, how it is graded, and the best way to prepare to guarantee success. Let’s get started!
What is the Spanish Dele exam?
The Dele (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) is an official certificate with no expiration date that accredits your Spanish level. It is awarded by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of Spain’s Ministry of Education and Professional Training and is internationally recognised by public and private educational institutions, as well as businesses and governments. Thus, it is an official guarantee of language proficiency.
It is available at different levels, from the most basic to the most advanced, following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):
- A1 and A2 → For beginners in Spanish.
- B1 and B2 → For those with an intermediate level of the language.
- C1 and C2 → For advanced and near-native users.
Note: Spanish legislation states that applicants for Spanish nationality by residency must pass the Dele A2 level or higher.
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Each level assesses the following skills:
- Reading comprehension → Multiple-choice questions on Spanish texts.
- Listening comprehension → Exercises based on audio recordings and conversations.
- Written expression → Writing texts based on given topics.
- Oral expression → Interview with examiners, monologues, and image descriptions.
Dele exam dates 2025
The Instituto Cervantes organises several sessions per year so you can take the exam when it suits you best. Here are the scheduled dates for 2025:
SESSION | WRITTEN EXAM | REGISTRATION DEADLINE | AVAILABLE LEVELS |
FEBRUARY | Friday, 14 February | 8 January | A2 |
APRIL | Friday, 4 April | 12 February | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 |
MAY | Saturday, 24 May | 9 April | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 |
JULY | Friday, 11 July | 14 May | A2, B1, B2, C1 |
SEPTEMBER | Friday, 12 September | 16 July | A2 |
OCTOBER | Friday, 17 October | 3 September | A2, B1, B2 |
NOVEMBER | Saturday, 22 November | 8 October | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 |
Registration for all exam sessions opened on 13 November 2024.
How to register for the Spanish Dele exam?
The Dele exam registration process is straightforward and can be done in two ways:
- Online → Through the Instituto Cervantes website if taking the exam in Spain.
- At an authorised exam centre → If taking the exam outside Spain, you must register directly at the centre where you will take the test.
Required documents for registration
To register, you need:
- A valid identification document (passport or national ID).
- A completed registration form.
- Proof of payment of the exam fees.
Exam fees vary depending on the diploma level and the country where the test is taken. Below are the 2025 registration costs in Spain:
| DELE FEES 2025 – PRICES IN EUROS / € |
A1 | A2 | B1 | B2 | C1 | C2 |
112,00€ | 134,00€ | 173,00€ | 204,00€ | 225,00€ | 240,00 |
How is the Dele exam graded?
Levels A1 to C1
The exam consists of four equally weighted sections:
- Reading Comprehension (25 points)
- Listening Comprehension (25 points)
- Written Expression and Interaction (25 points)
- Oral Expression and Interaction (25 points)
These are grouped into two blocks:
- Reading Comprehension + Written Expression and Interaction (50 points)
- Listening Comprehension + Oral Expression and Interaction (50 points)
To pass, at least 30 points are required in each block.
Level C2
The structure and grading differ slightly. The exam consists of three integrated sections:
- Language Use, Reading, and Listening Comprehension (33.33 points)
- Written Expression, Mediation, and Interaction (33.33 points)
- Oral Expression, Mediation, and Interaction (33.33 points)
To pass, at least 20 points are needed in each section.
Results are usually published two to three months after the exam and can be checked on the Instituto Cervantes website. You will be notified by email.
The best way to prepare for the Dele exam
A solid preparation is essential to achieve good results in the exam.
Best study strategies
- Familiarise yourself with the exam format and take timed mock tests: Download sample exams, review their structure, and complete them within the allocated time for each section. This will help you manage the test duration effectively.
- Read and listen to Spanish every day: The more you expose yourself to the language, the more naturally you will understand it in different contexts.
- Do not neglect oral expression: It is one of the most challenging skills to practise on your own, so actively seek opportunities to speak Spanish.
- Improve your written expression with targeted exercises: Practise writing formal emails, summaries, and arguments on various topics. If possible, find someone who can correct your work to help you identify and fix mistakes.
Recommended resources
Nowadays, there is a wide range of tools available to help you in your preparation process.
- Preparation books: Various publishers offer specialised manuals for each level, including explanations, exercises, and exam simulations.
- Past exam papers: These are a key reference to familiarise yourself with the exam format and practise with real questions. The more accustomed you become to them, the more confident you will feel when taking the test.
- Podcasts, series, and videos: Listening to Spanish in different contexts is essential for improving listening comprehension. If you choose topics that interest you, you will improve while being entertained, making it easier to stay consistent.
- Study groups and language exchanges: Practising with others is one of the most effective ways to learn. Look for exchange groups in your city or join online communities where you can regularly converse in Spanish.
Prepare for the Dele Exam in Spain with Españolé
If your goal is to pass the exam with confidence, at Españolé we offer a specialised Dele preparation course that will help you achieve the required level of readiness. We recommend taking the full 4-week course, although you can also choose to complete just part of it (1, 2, or 3 weeks).
Why choose Españolé?
- Certified and experienced teachers.
- Fully practical classes focused on familiarising you with the exam methodology and ensuring you pass.
- Balanced practice of all test components.
- Specialised learning materials tailored to each level.
- Exam simulations to practise under real conditions.
- Small groups for more personalised attention.
Furthermore, by studying at Españolé, you will learn Spanish in an immersive and multicultural environment, which will significantly speed up your progress.
In conclusion, the Spanish Dele exam is an official certification with international recognition that allows you to demonstrate your Spanish level in both academic and professional settings. The key to passing it is to thoroughly understand its structure and consistently practise all skills.
You might be interested: Check out Españolé’s full range of Spanish courses in Spain.
At Españolé, we offer the best Spanish training in Spain to help you approach the exam with confidence. Ready to earn your Dele diploma? We look forward to seeing you in our classes!
