Frequently asked questions about the DELE A2 and CCSE for Spanish nationality
To obtain Spanish nationality by residence, you must pass the DELE at level A2 or higher and the CCSE test, both administered by the Instituto Cervantes. To pass the DELE A2, you need 30 points out of 50 in each of its 2 test groups. To pass the CCSE, you need 15 correct answers out of 25. The CCSE costs 85 €, and the DELE A2 does not expire, but the CCSE certificate is valid for 4 years.
Brief answers based on official information. Each answer has a page with more details in the guides section.
Frequently asked questions
Which tests do I need to take to obtain Spanish nationality by residence?
The DELE at level A2 or higher and the CCSE test on constitutional and sociocultural knowledge. They are designed and administered by the Instituto Cervantes (Real Decreto 1004/2015, Article 6).
How many points do I need to pass the DELE A2?
At least 30 points out of 50 in each of the 2 groups: Group 1 (reading comprehension + written expression) and Group 2 (listening comprehension + oral expression).
How many parts does the DELE A2 have, and how long do they take?
4: reading, 60 minutes; listening, 40 minutes; writing, 45 minutes; and speaking, 12 minutes (plus 12 minutes for preparation).
How many questions are there in the CCSE, and how many correct answers do I need?
25 questions in 45 minutes. You need 15 correct answers (60%).
How much does the CCSE cost?
85 € since 2023. The price of the DELE depends on the country and is shown when you register.
Who is exempt from the DELE?
Anyone who already has a DELE diploma at level A2 or higher; anyone who has completed ESO in Spain, if the Ministry of Justice so decides; nationals by birth of 20 Spanish-speaking countries; anyone with an official A2, B1 or B2 Spanish-as-a-foreign-language certificate from an Official School of Languages; people under 18; and people whose legal capacity has been modified by a court.
Does the DELE expire?
No. The diploma is valid indefinitely.
Does the CCSE expire?
The electronic certificate is valid for 4 years from its date of issue.
When are the results released?
DELE: between 2 and 3 months (about 3 months for the May and November exam sessions). CCSE: about 20 days.
Can I retake the exam?
CCSE: yes. You can register a second time without paying again if you do not pass or do not attend. DELE: you must register and pay again, and retake all parts.
Which document should I use to register?
Your NIE, if you are applying for nationality by residence.
Are the tests held in person?
Yes, they are held in person. The Instituto Cervantes may administer them remotely only in the cases it determines.
What happens if I cannot read or write?
You must contact the Ministry of Justice to request a partial exemption, which allows you to take adapted DELE A2 and CCSE tests. For the DELE, you take only the adapted oral test (DELE A2-NA), which is held only in Spain.
How can I practise and receive corrections in my language?
With A2 Nacionalidad: reading, listening, writing and oral expression tests, with corrections provided by artificial intelligence and explanations in your language. There is 1 free test of each type.
Official sources
Information reviewed on .