Spanish exams and levels
DELE and SIELE — and which one you need.
10 minutes · A free lesson from Start here · Roman and Urdu pronunciation guides and English meanings are shown under each phrase
Spanish is measured on the CEFR levels, A1 to C2. The two main exams, both from the Instituto Cervantes, are:
| Exam | How it works | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| DELE | one exam per level (A1 to C2), on set dates | the diploma does not expire |
| SIELE | one online exam that reports your level (up to C1), taken on demand | five years |
Spanish nationality usually requires DELE A2 or higher plus the CCSE test on Spanish society and the constitution; citizens of Spanish-speaking countries are exempt from the language exam. Requirements change — always check the official rules.
Lesson quiz
Check what you have learned. Choose an answer to see whether it is right, and why.
Quick check: Which Spanish exam is taken online, on demand?
- DELE
- SIELE
- CCSE
Show the answer
B: SIELE — SIELE is one online exam that reports your level. DELE has one exam per level, on set dates.
Quick check: How long is a SIELE result valid?
- Five years
- It never expires
- One year
Show the answer
A: Five years — A SIELE result lasts five years. A DELE diploma does not expire.
Quick check: What does Spanish nationality usually require?
- Only the CCSE test
- DELE C2
- DELE A2 or higher, plus the CCSE test
Show the answer
C: DELE A2 or higher, plus the CCSE test — Citizens of Spanish-speaking countries are exempt from the language exam. Always check the official rules.
Quick check: Which organisation runs both the DELE and the SIELE?
- The Instituto Cervantes
- The Goethe-Institut
- The British Council
Show the answer
A: The Instituto Cervantes — Both exams come from the Instituto Cervantes.