DELE or SIELE — which Spanish certificate do you need?
Both are official Spanish certificates issued by, or through, the Instituto Cervantes — but they're built for different purposes, with a very different result once you pass.
This page explains the two main certificate options. Lerniyo doesn't issue either of these — our own exam is built in their style to prepare you, but a residency, citizenship, university, or job application that asks for one of these requires sitting the official exam through the Instituto Cervantes or an authorized center. Requirements vary by institution and change over time, so always confirm with whoever is asking for the certificate.
DELE and SIELE in one minute
DELE is a diploma: you sit one level, you pass or fail, and a diploma you pass is valid for life. SIELE is a scored test: you sit it once, receive a score from 0 to 1000 mapped to a CEFR level from A1 to C1, and the score is valid for 5 years. Which one you need depends on who is asking for the proof.
This guide compares the two side by side, shows which situation calls for which exam and how to check your requirement. Rules, fees and centers change, so always confirm with the institution that asks for the certificate.
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DELE and SIELE side by side
| Aspect | DELE | SIELE |
|---|---|---|
| Format | A diploma for one chosen level, A1 to C2 | One scored test mapped to a level from A1 to C1 |
| Result | Pass or fail for the level you sit | A score from 0 to 1000 and a level |
| Validity | A diploma you pass does not expire | The score is valid for 5 years |
| If you do not pass or want a new result | You can sit the same level again in a later session | You can sit the test again for a new score |
| Typical use | Spanish citizenship (the DELE A2), university admission and some jobs | University admission, job applications or anywhere a recent, dated score is preferred |
The two options
DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera)
A pass/fail diploma, run by the Instituto Cervantes. Once you pass, it's valid for life — there's no renewal or expiry.
A1 to C2, one exam per level
Spanish citizenship (A2 specifically), university admission, some jobs
SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española)
A single test that gives you a score from 0 to 1000, mapped to a CEFR level from A1 to C1 — not pass/fail, and not tied to one specific level.
A1 to C1, scored on one scale
University admission, job applications, or anywhere a recent, dated score is preferred over a permanent diploma
Which one should you take?
If you're applying for Spanish citizenship, you specifically need the DELE A2 diploma — SIELE doesn't cover that requirement. For most other goals (university, work, general proof of level), check exactly what the institution asks for: some prefer DELE's permanent diploma, others accept or prefer SIELE's dated score. When in doubt, DELE's permanent diploma tends to be the safer default since it never expires.
Which exam for which goal?
Start from the requirement, not from the exam. The institution that asks for the proof has the final word.
Spanish citizenship
You specifically need the DELE A2 diploma or a higher DELE level. SIELE does not cover this requirement.
University admission
Many universities accept either. Some prefer the permanent DELE diploma, others accept a recent SIELE score. Check the admissions page.
A job application
A recent SIELE score or a DELE diploma can both work. Ask the employer or read the posting.
A personal goal or a CV
A DELE diploma never expires, so it is a simple, lasting milestone.
Not sure of your level
SIELE reports a level from one sitting, which can suit you if you do not know which DELE level to pick. A free level test gives you a first idea before paying for any exam.
Mistakes when choosing a Spanish exam
- Taking the SIELE for a citizenship file that asks for the DELE A2.
- Using a SIELE score after its validity period has passed.
- Booking an exam before checking which exam and which level the institution names.
- Choosing the DELE level by guessing. Test your level first, then pick the exam level that fits.
- Assuming a Lerniyo certificate replaces either exam. It confirms that you completed Lerniyo’s own course and is not an official proof.
- Paying anyone who promises a guaranteed result. Nobody can guarantee a score.
How to choose in five steps
A simple order that avoids wasted exam fees and time:
- 1
Find the official requirement
Open the page of your university, employer or the citizenship procedure.
- 2
Write down the details
The accepted exams, the minimum level or score, and how long a result stays valid.
- 3
Pick the accepted exam that suits you
Think about diploma or scored test, the dates and centers available, and how fast you need the result.
- 4
Build the level first
Reach the level the exam tests, then practise its format.
- 5
Book the official exam
Register through the Instituto Cervantes or an authorized center and leave time before your deadline.
Common questions
Does Lerniyo issue a DELE or SIELE certificate?
No. Lerniyo's own certificate confirms you completed our curriculum. It's built in the style of these exams to prepare you, but you still need to register for and sit the official exam through the Instituto Cervantes or an authorized center.
Which one is cheapest?
Prices vary by country and exam center — there's no single answer. Check the specific exam center near you.
Can I prepare for either of them with Lerniyo?
Yes. The CEFR levels (A1 to C1/C2) are the same across both, so the Spanish you learn with Lerniyo prepares you for whichever one you end up booking.
Does SIELE expire?
Yes — a SIELE score is valid for 5 years. DELE, once passed, is valid for life.
Which is easier, DELE or SIELE?
They are not comparable in difficulty because they work differently: DELE tests one level and is pass or fail, SIELE places you on a scale. What matters is which one your institution accepts.
Can I use SIELE instead of the DELE A2 for citizenship?
No. The language proof for Spanish citizenship is the DELE A2 diploma or a higher level. Confirm the current rule with an official source.