DELE Spanish Language Test Guide for Masters Students

The Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) are well-known Spanish language tests for people who don’t speak Spanish as their first language. If you want to do a Masters course taught in Spanish, you might need to pass one of these exams to meet the university’s language rules. Many Masters courses ask for a certain Spanish level — so it’s a good idea to check before you get too far.

Thinking about doing a Masters in Spain or Latin America? If Spanish isn’t your first language, you’ll need to prove you can do more than just order food or say hello. That’s where the DELE comes in. In this guide, I’ll explain what the exam is, what level you might need, and how to get ready — without making it too stressful.

The Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) are official Spanish language qualifications recognised worldwide. They show that you have a certain level of proficiency in Spanish and are accepted by universities, employers, and government institutions in Spain and many Spanish-speaking countries.

DELE exams are based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which describes language ability in six levels — from complete beginner to near-native mastery. The DELE diplomas correspond to these CEFR levels:

For most Masters programmes taught in Spanish, you will need at least a B2 or C1 level. This ensures you can follow lectures, participate in seminars, write essays, and engage with academic material comfortably.

The DELE exam tests your ability to use Spanish in real-life situations, focusing on four key skills:

• Reading: Understanding written texts like articles or emails

• Listening: Understanding spoken Spanish in conversations or lectures

• Writing: Writing essays, letters, or reports clearly and correctly

• Speaking: Talking about topics fluently and interacting in conversations

As you move up the levels, the exam gets longer and harder. For example, the C1 exam can take around four and a half hours, while beginner levels are shorter. Fees also rise with the level and the test centre, typically ranging from €130 to €220.

You can usually take the DELE exam at an Instituto Cervantes centre or other official exam venues. Exams are offered several times a year, commonly in April, May, July, October, and November. It’s important to register early, as places can fill up.

Preparing for the DELE is about working smart, not just hard. Start by understanding the exam format — know what each section involves and how it’s timed. This helps you target your preparation and avoid surprises on the day. Set clear goals and break your study into manageable chunks, focusing on one skill or topic at a time.

Vary your study methods to keep things interesting. Use textbooks, apps, podcasts, news articles, or anything else that gets you thinking in Spanish. Regular timed practice with past papers is key — it builds stamina and shows you where to improve. If you can, get feedback on your speaking and writing from someone fluent. A second pair of eyes (or ears) can spot things you’ve missed.

Short, consistent study sessions tend to work better than last-minute cramming. And don’t forget to plan ahead for exam day — know where you're going and what to bring. Give yourself time to arrive calmly. It all helps.

DELE exams are usually held five or six times a year — most commonly in April, May, July, October, and November. You can take the test at Instituto Cervantes centres or other official locations around the world (usually in large cities — you’ll struggle to find one in a remote village or halfway up a mountain in Snowdonia).

It’s a good idea to check exam dates and register early, as places can fill up fast.

You can find sample papers, upcoming test dates, and your nearest exam centre on the DELE website.

If you’re thinking about taking the DELE — whether for your Masters, work, or just to challenge yourself — here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare, especially for higher levels

• Check your university’s language requirements: Make sure you know exactly what level you need

• Practice all skills: Don’t just focus on reading and writing — speaking and listening matter too

• Use real Spanish: Watch films, listen to podcasts, or read news to get used to natural language

• Be patient: Learning a language takes time. Keep going, even when progress feels slow.