Compare DELE and SIELE to choose the best Spanish certification for your academic, professional, or immigration goals.
| Feature | DELE | SIELE |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera | Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española |
| Format | Paper-based or computer | Digital only |
| Test Frequency | 4-6 times per year | Weekly/year-round |
| Results Time | 2-3 months | 3 weeks |
| Validity | Lifetime | 5 years |
| Levels Tested | One specific level (A1-C2) | All levels (A1-C1) in one test |
| Pass/Fail | Yes (you either pass or fail the chosen level) | No (you receive your actual level) |
| Cost | €150-€210 | €150-€200 |
| Modular Options | No (must take all 4 skills) | Yes (can test individual skills) |
DELE: Valid for life. Once you pass, the certificate never expires.
SIELE: Valid for 5 years. After 5 years, you need to retake if you need current certification.
Winner: DELE for lifetime validity, SIELE if institutions prefer time-limited certificates showing current proficiency.
DELE: Offered 4-6 times per year on specific dates. Registration closes weeks in advance.
SIELE: Available year-round with test dates almost weekly at most centers.
Winner: SIELE for flexibility and convenience.
DELE: Results take 2-3 months to receive.
SIELE: Results available in approximately 3 weeks.
Winner: SIELE if you need results urgently.
DELE: You choose one specific level (e.g., B2) and either pass or fail that level.
SIELE: One test evaluates your actual level across A1-C1 range. You can't "fail"—you receive your demonstrated level.
Winner: DELE if you want to prove a specific level; SIELE if you're unsure of your exact level.
DELE: Paper-based or computer-based depending on test center.
SIELE: Digital only, taken on computer.
Winner: Depends on your preference for paper vs digital testing.
Best for: University admission requirements, immigration (where lifetime validity is preferred), professional credentials that don't expire.
Best for: Job applications with quick deadlines, demonstrating current proficiency, situations requiring recent certification.
Both DELE and SIELE are widely recognized internationally:
Most universities worldwide accept both DELE and SIELE. However, check specific requirements—some institutions may prefer or require DELE due to its longer history.
Employers generally accept both certifications equally as proof of Spanish proficiency. SIELE's shorter validity period can actually be advantageous, showing recent/current ability.
Depends on the country. Some immigration programs accept both, while others may specify one. Always check official immigration requirements.
For professional licensing in Spanish-speaking countries, DELE's lifetime validity is often preferred.
Since both tests assess Spanish proficiency at CEFR levels, preparation is similar:
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