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Instituto Cervantes

DELEDiplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language

A1A2B1B2C1C2

The official Spanish diplomas from the Instituto Cervantes. For those learning Spanish as a foreign language who want to certify their level to study, work or live in a Spanish-speaking country.

LevelsOne exam per level, from A1 to C2
Awarded byInstituto Cervantes, on behalf of Spain's Ministry of Education
ResultPass (Apto) or fail (No apto)
ValidityThe diploma doesn't expire

What is the DELE?

The DELE certifies your Spanish level according to the Common European Framework. There's an exam for each level: you choose the one you want to prove and, if you pass, you receive an official diploma recognized by universities, companies and governments.

  • International students who want to study at a Spanish-speaking university
  • Professionals who need to prove their Spanish for work
  • Those applying for Spanish nationality (an A2 or higher is required)
  • School students aged 11 to 17, with the DELE for schools (A1 and A2/B1)

Exam format

Test 1Reading comprehensionReal texts of varying difficulty depending on the level.
Test 2Listening comprehensionConversations, announcements and interviews with accents from different countries.
Test 3Written expression and interactionTexts such as emails, messages, opinion pieces or reports.
Test 4Spoken expression and interactionA conversation with an examiner: you talk about yourself, describe, give opinions and negotiate.

Results and level

The result is Apto (pass) or No apto (fail). The tests are grouped, and you must pass each group to get the diploma. The C2 has a somewhat different structure, with tests that combine several skills.

What level do you need? Whichever one you want to certify: you don't have to take the levels in order. Before we start, we assess your Spanish and help you choose the right level.

How we prepare you

We don't just do mock exams: we work on your weak points and build on your strengths, with plenty of practice so you speak and understand Spanish with confidence.

  • Assessment of your Spanish level before you start
  • Training for each test and each task type
  • Mock exams in the real format, graded so you know when you're ready
  • Conversation and writing practice with corrections
  • Virtual classroom with audio in different accents and guided practice
  • Reports and feedback after each assessment
One-to-one (1:1)Classes just for you, at the time you choose. 28 hours of preparation.
Group (small group)Practice with other students preparing for the same exam. Opens with a minimum of 4 students.

Ask for the price on WhatsApp. Before you start, an intro class (S/ 50) to assess your level and build your plan around your exam date.

Questions about the DELE

What's the difference between the DELE and the SIELE?

The DELE certifies a single level and the diploma doesn't expire. The SIELE is a computer-based exam that measures your level on a scale from A1 to C1, and its certificate is valid for 5 years. We prepare you for the SIELE too.

What level is required for Spanish nationality?

Spanish nationality usually requires the DELE A2 or higher, along with a separate test on knowledge of Spain. Always confirm the current requirement.

Are the classes in Spanish?

Yes. From the very first class you speak in Spanish, with a teacher who adapts to your level and your language.

Do you run the exam or register me for it?

We prepare you. You sit the exam at a center authorized by the institution that runs it. If you're not sure which exam to take or what score you need, we'll help you find out.

Other exams we prepare you for