DELE Spanish Diplomas
About DELE
Isabella & Ferdinand® Academia de Español® is recognized by the Instituto Cervantes to administer the "Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera" (DELE), an international examination that measures language proficiency in Spanish. We also offer our own courses to help students prepare for it.
The DELE Spanish diplomas are official titles accrediting the degree of competence and proficiency in the Spanish language, granted by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. The Instituto Cervantes is responsible for the academic, administrative and economic management of the DELE diplomas, in accordance with the provisions of Royal Decrees 1137/2002 of 31 October, RD 264/2008 of 22 February and RD 1004/2015 of 6 November.
DELE exams are designed according to the guidelines of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and the Manual for Linking Exams to the CEFR, both works of the Council of Europe.
The repertoire of language content that can be included in the DELE exams is included in the Curriculum Plan document of the Instituto Cervantes. Reference Levels for Spanish (NRE), developed by the Instituto Cervantes from the MCER descriptors.
Who Can Take the DELE Examination?
The DELE examinations are open to candidates of all ages who wish to certify their level of Spanish proficiency. The General DELE Diplomas are primarily designed for adult learners and candidates aged 16 and older, although younger students may also participate when appropriate.
Candidates must have sufficient literacy skills to complete the examination tasks, as the DELE assesses reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written expression and interaction, and oral expression and interaction according to the corresponding Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level.
For candidates who are minors or individuals who do not have legal capacity to act independently, registration must be completed by a parent, guardian, or legally authorized representative.
In addition to the General DELE examinations, the Instituto Cervantes offers DELE Escolar Diplomas, specifically designed for students between 11 and 17 years old, with age-appropriate examination content adapted to their educational context.
What levels does the DELE cover?
DELE Spanish Diplomas are official titles certifying degree of competence and mastery of the Spanish language, granted by Spain's Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport.
The Instituto Cervantes organizes examination sessions, while the Universidad de Salamanca in Spain designs the exams and is in charge of corrections and the final evaluation of all exams.
DELE A1 Escolar – Nivel A1 (Acceso) DELE A2/B1 Escolar – Niveles A2 (Plataforma) y B1 (Umbral) DELE B2/C1 Escolar – Niveles B2 (Avanzado) y C1 (Dominio operativo eficaz)
DELE Adultos DELE A1 – Acceso DELE A2 – Plataforma DELE B1 – Umbral DELE B2 – Avanzado DELE C1 – Dominio operativo eficaz DELE C2 – Maestría
Recognition of DELE exams.
DELE diplomas are internationally recognised and have a great prestige, not only among public and private educational institutions and authorities but also in the business world and among chambers of commerce. They are an official guarantee in the evaluation and certification of language proficiency in Spanish
2026 DELE EXAM DATES AND REGISTRATION DEADLINES
DELE exams are offered on several dates throughout the year. Please note that each exam date does not necessarily include all exam levels.
Pay special attention to the registration deadlines and make sure to register in advance.
Note: We will conduct the exam for scholars - young learners and adults at Washington DC / May & November dates.
2026 DELE -DATES
May
Friday 22 / Escolares*: A1 y A2/B1Saturday 23/ Adultos: Levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
Register by April 8, 2026.November
Friday 13/ Escolares*: A1/A2/B1, B2/C1
Saturday 14 / Adultos: Levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2
Register before September 30, 2026Costs:
The prices for taking a DELE exam vary depending on the exam you wish to take.
Level A1: $128
Level A1 Schoolers: $128
Level A2: $130
Level A2/B1 Schoolers: $154
Level B1: $154
Level B2: $176
Level C1: $195
Level B2/C1 Schoolers: $195
Level C2: $210
OPEN ENROLLMENT!
ACADEMIC YEAR 2026-2027 IS NOW OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT
🔔Schedule:
When: Weekdays or Weekends
Time: 2 hours/sessions
Duration: Fall - 14 weeks (Sep 5 to Dec 19, 2026)
In-person Classes at Isabella & Ferdinand
Location: Horace Mann ES
4430 Newark Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20016
The Curso DELE prepare students for taking the DELE exam. Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language (DELE) are official titles certifying degree of competence and mastery of the Spanish Language, granted by the Ministry of Education of Spain. Classes are 2 hours of duration.
Levels for Young Learners: A1, A2/B1.