The DELE Spanish diplomas: levels and how to get ready

The DELE is the Spanish diploma from the Instituto Cervantes, available from A1 to C2. The Instituto Cervantes is rebuilding its exams website, so this guide states only what we could confirm and points you to the official page for the rest. Our DELE preparation path lists the steps.

Updated · 5 min read

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16Word: the free Spanish level test — A1 to B2 in a few minutes, no account needed

What we can confirm

The official DELE page currently publishes dates and deadlines while the rest of the site is being rebuilt. The DELE covers levels A1 to C2. It is used for citizenship: Spanish nationality applicants are usually asked for an A2 diploma, as our guide to the DELE A2 and CCSE explains.

For format, parts and pass rules, wait for the official site to publish them, or ask your exam centre. We prefer leaving a gap to printing something out of date.

Choosing your level

  1. Take a free Spanish level test, which places you between A1 and B2.
  2. Find out what level your university, employer or authority asks for.
  3. If you need Spanish nationality, read the A2 and CCSE guide carefully, since a second test is involved.

Preparing while the site is rebuilt

You do not need the exam paper in front of you to start. At any level, a language exam needs words you can recall quickly, sentences you can build without translating, and practice in understanding real speech.

  • Words: 16 a day, with spaced repetition, so that they are still there next month.
  • Verbs: Spanish verbs carry a lot of information. Practise them in full sentences, not only in tables.
  • Dialogues: short exchanges teach you the replies that come up again and again.
  • Listening: speakers from different countries sound different, so vary what you listen to.

When the official information returns

Check the official page from time to time. As soon as it publishes the structure of your level, use it to organise your final weeks of practice. Our exam page is checked every year as well.

Your Spanish, step by step

Tell us your level and goal, and 16Word sets out what to learn next.

16Word's paths stop at B2. For C1 and C2, use them for the foundations and add advanced material in Spanish.

See also language exams for citizenship.

Keep exploring

Every exam below has its own preparation page on 16Word.

The other language exams

More guides on language exams

Related guides and free level tests

DELE: frequently asked questions

What levels does the DELE cover?

From A1 to C2.

Do I need the DELE for Spanish nationality?

Applicants are usually asked for an A2 diploma. See our DELE A2 and CCSE guide.

Why does this guide not give the format?

The Instituto Cervantes is rebuilding its exams site, and we publish only what we can confirm.

How do I find my Spanish level?

Take a free Spanish level test.

Does the DELE expire?

The information we could read does not say, so ask the Instituto Cervantes or your exam centre.

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