DELE A2 speaking test: the three tasks, timing and how to prepare
The DELE A2 speaking and interaction test lasts 12 minutes and is preceded by 12 minutes of preparation. It has three tasks: a 2- to 3-minute presentation on a topic you choose from two options, a 2- to 3-minute description of a photograph and a 3- to 4-minute conversation with the interviewer. There are two examiners, and both score your performance: the rater accounts for 60 % and the interviewer for 40 %.
The three tasks
- Presentation (2 to 3 minutes): a short monologue on a topic from your daily life. You choose between two topics and receive a prompt sheet with points to cover.
- Description of a photograph (2 to 3 minutes): you give a simple description of an everyday scene, such as shopping or transport.
- Conversation with the interviewer (3 to 4 minutes): a simulated situation based on the photograph, or an informal conversation about everyday activities, free time, work, likes and interests.
Preparation
Before speaking, you have 12 minutes to prepare the three tasks. You can take notes and write a draft to refer to during the test. At the beginning, the interviewer asks you some introductory questions to help you relax.
How it is scored
There are two examiners in the room: the interviewer, who leads the conversation, and the rater, who does not take part. Both score language use (66 %) and task completion (34 %). The rater's score accounts for 60 % and the interviewer's for 40 %. It is important to cover all the points required in each task.
Tips
- Use your draft to write down keywords, not a full text that you will then have to read.
- Cover all the points on the prompt sheet, even if you use simple sentences.
- If you do not know a word, explain the idea using words you know. Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if you do not understand.
- Practise aloud with a timer: 2 to 3 minutes is longer than it seems.
- Record your answer, listen to it and correct any sentences that do not sound right.
With A2 Nacionalidad, you can prepare monologues and dialogues with questions from the examiner and useful phrases, record your answer using the microphone, and receive a transcript, corrections with explanations in your language, and general feedback on how clearly your voice can be understood (clarity, pace, pauses and words that are difficult to understand). This is an automated, general assessment and does not replace an examiner.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the DELE A2 speaking test last?
12 minutes, plus 12 minutes of preparation beforehand. The tasks last between 2 and 3 minutes (presentation), between 2 and 3 minutes (photograph) and between 3 and 4 minutes (conversation).
Can I use notes during the speaking test?
During the 12 minutes of preparation, you can take notes and write a draft to refer to during the test.
Who examines me?
Two examiners: an interviewer, who speaks with you, and a rater, who scores your performance and does not take part.
Official sources
Information reviewed on .