Are you planning to get a Spanish language certification to prove your skills or boost your career?
At Españolé, we know that earning an official certificate is more than a test. It’s a personal challenge, a source of motivation, and a powerful credential for your academic or professional goals.
In this guide you’ll discover the most recognized Spanish exams, how to prepare for them, and which certification best fits your needs.
What is a Spanish language certification?
A Spanish language certification is an official document that assesses and validates your Spanish proficiency level.
Most tests evaluate four skills:
- Oral expression and comprehension
- Written expression and comprehension
These exams are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the international standard that defines proficiency in six levels:
| CEFR Level | Description |
| A1–A2 (Basic User) | Can handle simple everyday conversations with help. |
| B1–B2 (Independent User) | Can communicate clearly and effectively in most contexts. |
| C1–C2 (Proficient User) | Speaks fluently and precisely, even in complex situations. |
Why choose a CEFR-aligned Spanish certificate?
A CEFR-compliant Spanish certificate is recognized worldwide. Employers, universities, and immigration authorities often require it to verify your Spanish level.
Benefits include:
- Global recognition of your Spanish skills.
- Academic and professional credibility in Spain and abroad.
- A clear framework to plan your learning goals: moving from A2 to B1 may take around 150 study hours, while achieving C1 might require 800+ hours.
Most popular Spanish language exams
The main official Spanish language exams accepted internationally include:
- DELE (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera)
- SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española)
- ELE Teacher Training Certification
But there are also other recognised certifications:
- DADIC (Diplomas de Acreditación Docente del Instituto Cervantes). For Spanish teachers seeking professional accreditation.
- TELC (The European Language Certificates). Common in Europe, recognised by universities and employers.
- CELU (Certificado de Español: Lengua y Uso). Required by some Latin American institutions for admission.
- OPI (Oral Proficiency Interview in Spanish). Widely used in the U.S. for government and education purposes.
Each exam measures your Spanish proficiency, but they differ in format, duration, and evaluable skills.
Official Spanish certifications: DELE, SIELE & ELE
DELE: the gold standard of Spanish exams
The DELE (Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera), issued by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education, is the most prestigious Spanish certificate.
Key facts:
- Valid for life.
- Available from A1 to C2.
- Includes written, oral, listening, and reading tests.
- Required by many universities and employers in Spain and Latin America.
You may be interested in: Learn how to prepare the DELE exam step by step
SIELE: flexible, modern option
The SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) is another official certification.
It is promoted by the Instituto Cervantes, UNAM, University of Salamanca and University of Buenos Aires, ensuring coverage of all Spanish variants across Latin America and Spain.
Advantages of SIELE:
- 100% digital and on-demand: take it anytime, anywhere.
- Results available in less than three weeks.
- Covers CEFR levels A1–C1.
Are you keen on this certification? Check our SIELE preparation courses
ELE: teacher training certificate
If your goal is to teach Spanish as a foreign language, the ELE certification is your path.
It certifies that you have the methodological and linguistic competences to become a Spanish teacher.
Españolé offers the Spanish native teacher training program, accredited and designed for aspiring teachers or linguistics researchers who want to gain practical classroom experience in Spain.
How can I choose the right Spanish certification?
| Goal | Recommended exam |
| Study or work in Spain | DELE |
| Need fast, flexible certification | SIELE |
| Become a Spanish teacher | ELE / DADIC |
| Study or work in Latin America | CELU |
| Prove oral fluency | OPI |
Tips to prepare for your Spanish language exam
To increase your chances of success, follow these practical tips:
- Get informed about exam dates, formats, and scoring criteria.
- Take an intensive Spanish course in Spain for full immersion.
- Join conversation groups to boost confidence in speaking.
- Simulate exam conditions with mock tests.
- Study regularly, not just before the test.
Common questions about official Spanish exams
What is the easiest Spanish certificate to obtain?
The SIELE is generally considered more flexible and less stressful because you can take it online and there’s no pass/fail. Your level is always certified.
Is DELE better than SIELE?
Both are official and recognized worldwide. Choose DELE if you want a permanent certificate, or SIELE if you prefer digital flexibility.
How long does it take to prepare for the DELE exam?
Preparation time depends on your current level. For example, moving from B1 to B2 can take around 120–150 study hours with consistent practice.
Can I study for DELE or SIELE in Spain?
Of course! At Españolé, we offer specialized DELE and SIELE preparation programs that combine language classes, cultural experiences and personalized exam preparation, with a 98% pass rate among students.
If you’re aiming for a B1 or higher Spanish certificate or planning to study abroad in Spain, we’ll help you find the right course for your goals.
I passed my DELE B2 thanks to the intensive course at Españolé. The teachers gave me the confidence I needed to speak fluently. — Angelina from Italy
The SIELE online preparation was super flexible. I could study at my own pace and still get excellent results. — James from UK
Why Españolé and Valencia are the perfect choice for your study experience
Now that you know how to get your Spanish language certification, it’s time for the most exciting part: choosing your Spanish school in Spain.
And we’re here to make that decision easy. Here’s why Españolé and Valencia are the perfect fit for your study journey.
Valencia: affordable, welcoming, and full of life
Valencia is one of the most affordable and student-friendly cities in Spain. With Mediterranean beaches, incredible food, over 300 days of sunshine a year, and a laid-back vibe, it’s no wonder so many international students fall in love with it.
It’s more budget-friendly than Madrid or Barcelona, but just as rich in culture, opportunity, and educational quality. Discover more about Valencia as your study destination.
The Españolé experience: built around you
At Españolé, everything, from our methodology and support services, is designed to help you achieve your Spanish language certification and make the most of your stay in Spain:
- Live and learn in the historical centre of Valencia. Our school blends historical character with modern facilities: bright classrooms, sunny terraces, and communal spaces where learning feels natural and engaging.
- Native teachers, real-life Spanish. Our instructors are native speakers with deep academic experience. Lessons are dynamic and interactive, focused on real-world Spanish you can use right away.
- Culture and connection beyond the classroom. We organize daily cultural activities: city tours, cooking classes, language exchanges, museum visits, and beach outings that immerse you in local life and practice Spanish naturally every day.
- Personal academic and certification guidance. Whether you’re applying for a student visa, preparing your DELE or SIELE exam, or planning a career in teaching Spanish (ELE), our admissions and academic teams are here to guide you. We’ll help you navigate from visa paperwork to exam registration, ensuring a smooth and supported journey toward your certification.
- Flexible Spanish + University Pathway Programs. Whether you’re prepping for a student visa, DELE exam, or university entry (PAU or PCE), our pathway programs offer tailored training in both academic Spanish and test strategy, with small classes and individual mentoring.
- Trusted accreditation and high student satisfaction. Españolé is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes and is a proud member of International House and IALC, guaranteeing the highest quality standards. Our students consistently report rapid progress, strong cultural connections, and greater confidence to continue their academic journey.
Ready to get certified in Spanish?
Getting your Spanish language certification is just the beginning. To truly thrive, whether you’re studying, working, or teaching in Spain, you’ll need more than a test result. You need the language skills, confidence, and cultural understanding to make your Spanish part of your everyday life.
That’s where Españolé makes a difference. Our Spanish courses for official certifications help international students and professionals master the language, prepare for the DELE or SIELE exams, and feel fully supported every step of the way.
From exam preparation and registration to immersive cultural learning, we’ve got your back. Not sure which Spanish exam is right for you or how to start? — Get in touch with us!
