We provide a simple guide to help you choose the official Spanish qualification that best fits your goals.
You’re learning Spanish in Spain, and now it’s time to get an official certificate to prove your skills to the world.
A Spanish language certificate is a fantastic way to validate your hard work for universities and employers. The two biggest and most respected names in Spanish certification exams are the DELE and the SIELE.
But which one is right for you? They are both excellent, internationally recognized qualifications, but they are designed for different needs.
This guide will break down the key differences to help you choose the perfect exam for your goals. Getting certified is a major milestone in your language journey, so let’s explore your options.
(Last Updated: February 2026)
Main Key Takeaways
- The DELE is a traditional, pass/fail exam that grants a diploma for a specific language level (ex: B2), and this diploma never expires.
- The SIELE is a modern, points-based exam taken on a computer that gives you a score showing your proficiency across multiple levels, and the certificate is valid for five years.
- Your choice depends on your goal: choose DELE for a permanent qualification for official purposes like nationality, and choose SIELE for a fast, flexible assessment of your current language ability for professional or academic applications.
- The DELE has fixed exam dates throughout the year that require advance registration, while the SIELE offers flexible dates and can be taken on demand at test centers worldwide.
- Both exams test the four main language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
What is the DELE Exam?
The DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) is the official diploma issued by Spain’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport, certifying a specific level of Spanish proficiency.
The DELE is the “gold standard” of Spanish language certification. It is a traditional, paper-based exam that you take for a specific level on the CEFR scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, or C2).
To learn more about how the CEFR scale categorizes language level abilities and how you can use it to understand where you’re at, read our roadmap to fluency.
You either pass or fail at that level. The biggest advantage of the DELE is that your diploma is valid for life; it never expires.
It is the most widely recognized certificate for official purposes, such as applying for Spanish nationality or for admission to some Spanish universities.
What is the SIELE Exam?
The SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) is a modern, computer-based exam that certifies your Spanish proficiency on a points-based scale.
The SIELE is a more flexible and modern alternative to the DELE. Instead of passing or failing at one level, you take a single exam and receive a score from 0 to 1000, which corresponds to a CEFR level.
This means you can’t “fail” the SIELE; you simply get a score that reflects your current ability. The certificate is valid for five years.
The SIELE is also more flexible in its format: you can take the complete exam or choose to test individual skills (ex: just speaking).
What are the Key Differences Between DELE and SIELE?
When comparing DELE vs. SIELE, the main differences lie in the format, scoring system, validity, and flexibility.
Table: Comparison table of DELE vs SIELE Spanish exam differences.
| Feature | DELE | SIELE |
| Exam Format | Paper-based | Computer-based |
| Scoring | Pass/Fail for one specific level | Points-based scale (0-1000) across levels |
| Certificate Validity | Lifelong | 5 Years |
| Exam Dates | Fixed dates per year | Flexible dates on demand |
| Structure | All-in-one exam | Modular (can test skills separately) |
| Best For… | A permanent, official diploma | A fast, flexible assessment of current skills |
How Do the Costs Compare Between DELE and SIELE?
One of the most common questions students ask is about the price difference. While costs can vary depending on the country where you take the exam, there are distinct pricing structures for each.
The DELE price changes based on the proficiency level you choose (A1 is cheaper than C2). The SIELE has a fixed price for the full exam, or cheaper options if you only take specific modules.
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs:
| Exam Type | Approximate Price (Spain) | Approximate Price (USA/Global) | Pricing Factors |
| DELE | €110 – €240 | $140 – $270 | Price increases with higher levels (A1–C2). |
| SIELE (Global) | ~ €155 | ~ $175 | Fixed price for the full exam (0-1000 points). |
| SIELE (Modular) | €55 – €100 | $60 – $110 | Price depends on which skill combination you choose. |
Who Should Choose the DELE Exam?
This Spanish certification exam is the right choice if you are a student who:
- Needs a permanent qualification that will never expire.
- Is applying for Spanish nationality or certain official government processes.
- Is applying to a university that specifically requires a DELE diploma.
- Prefers a traditional, paper-based exam format.
- Is studying in Spain long-term and has enough time to prepare for the exam on one of the fixed official test dates.
Who Should Choose the SIELE Exam?
You should choose the SIELE if you are a student who:
- Needs a certificate quickly for a job or school application.
- Wants to know your current proficiency level across a range of skills without the risk of “failing.”
- Is more comfortable with computer-based tests.
- Needs to prove your proficiency for a professional or academic application that accepts the SIELE.
- Wants an official certification but can’t take the DELE due to its limited, fixed exam dates.
FAQ About Spanish Certification: DELE vs. SIELE
1. Is one exam “easier” than the other?
Neither exam is inherently “easier,” but they test in different ways. Some students find the SIELE less stressful because you cannot “fail” it, while others prefer the structured, predictable format of the DELE.
2. Which one is better for my resume?
Both are highly respected and internationally recognized. The DELE is the more traditional and well-known diploma. The SIELE is newer but is quickly gaining recognition, especially in the professional world, for its modern format and detailed score report.
3. Can I take the exams outside of Spain?
Yes, both the DELE and the SIELE have thousands of authorized examination centers all over the world. You can find the full list of official DELE exam locations on the Instituto Cervantes website.
4. How long does it take to get the results?
SIELE results are much faster, typically arriving within three weeks. DELE results can take up to three months to be released.
5. Do I need a special preparation course?
While it’s not mandatory, a dedicated preparation course is highly recommended for either exam. These courses teach you the specific strategies, formats, and time management skills you need to pass, which is different from just having general Spanish knowledge.
Most of the schools that Go! Go! España partners with also offer DELE preparation courses. Using our Spanish Language Schools page, students can filter for schools that provide a “DELE Exam Preparation Course.”
Conclusion:
Choosing between the DELE vs SIELE is a personal decision based on your goals. To put it simply, choose DELE for a permanent, pass/fail diploma for official purposes.
Choose SIELE for a fast, flexible, and points-based certificate of your current language ability. Both are excellent, internationally recognized qualifications that will be a powerful addition to your academic and professional profile.
Ready to get certified?
Go! Go! España can help you find the best language schools with DELE and SIELE preparation courses. Contact us for free advice.
