DELE: official exams

In the world of languages, Spanish occupies a privileged place due to its wide diffusion and cultural and commercial relevance. If you live in Spain or plan to do so, you have probably heard about the DELE exam. But what exactly is the DELE and why might it be important to you? Below, we explain everything you need to know about this exam.

What is the DELE?
The DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) is an official diploma that certifies the level of competence and command of the Spanish language. It is awarded by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. The most remarkable thing about the DELE is that it is internationally recognized and its validity is indefinite.

Main features of the DELE exam

Proficiency levels: The exam is structured in six levels, following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from level A1 for beginners to level C2 for advanced learners.
Comprehensive evaluation: It evaluates all areas of language knowledge: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written expression and oral expression.
Flexibility: You can choose the level you wish to take, according to your language proficiency.
Authorized centers: The exam is given in an exam center, such as Bcnlip, on dates established by the Instituto Cervantes.

Situations in which you might need the DELE in Spain

Academic Studies: If you plan to study at a Spanish university and Spanish is not your native language, you will likely be asked for a DELE diploma to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Professional Work: Some companies, especially those operating internationally, may require a DELE certification as proof of your ability to communicate effectively in Spanish.
Nationality Procedures: For certain legal procedures, such as applying for Spanish nationality, a DELE diploma is required to certify a minimum level of language proficiency.
Personal and Professional Development: Obtaining the DELE diploma can be a great boost to your CV, demonstrating your commitment and ability to learn and master a second language.

DELE 2025 calendar

Date	Sign-up deadline date	Levels
Febuary 14	January 8	A2
April 4	February 12	A1, A2, B1, B2, C1
May 23 and 24	April 9	A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
July 11	May 14	A2, B1, B2, C1
September 12	July 16	A2
October 17	September 3	A2, B1, B2
November 21 and 22	October 8	A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2

DELE vs SIELE: differences

↓ Differences: DELE and SIELE exams

Concepts	DELE	SIELE
Description	Diploma of Spanish proficiency at CEFR level (A1-C2)	Certificate of knowledge of Spanish on a scale of points equivalent to CEFR levels A1-C1.
Ownership	Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport of Spain. Instituto Cervantes since 2002
Certification management start	1989	2016
Origin	Spain	Spain, Mexico and Argentina
Validity	Indefinite	5 years
International recognition	Regulated educational systems, institutions, companies, universities. In Spain: nationality, MIR, FIR, etc.	SICELE higher education institutions
Considered an official exam	Yes	Yes
Responsible for administrative and commercial management	Instituto Cervantes	Telefónica Educación Digital
Method of administering	In examination centers, on paper, in international calls	In test centers, on computer, in appointment system
Integration of Spanish varieties	Yes, especially from B1	Yes, mandatory from conception
Compliance with international certification standards	Yes	Yes
Number of exams and levels	Six for adults (A1-C2), two for schoolchildren (A1-A2/B1)	One exam for adults (A1-C1)
Examination Tests	Reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written and spoken expression and interaction	Reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written and spoken expression and interaction
Information on the result	Pass or fail by level	Result on a 1000-point scale with equivalence to CEFR levels.
Type of certificate issued	Electronic certification of grades and official diploma for pass grades	Certificate (full examination) or Report (partial tests)
Deadline for communication of results	Maximum two months	Maximum three weeks
Suitability for Spanish nationality application	Yes	No

Source: Universidad de Salamanca

Watch our video: more on DELE vs SIELE differences

Whether for professional, academic or personal reasons, obtaining a DELE diploma can open numerous doors for you in Spain and the Spanish-speaking world. In addition to being an official recognition of your Spanish language ability, it gives you a significant advantage in an increasingly globalized and multilingual world. If Spanish is not your native language and you are living or planning to live in Spain, seriously consider preparing for and taking the DELE exam – your future self will thank you!

INFO CORNER