CEFR Spanish levels explained: what do A1 to C2 mean?
Spanish levels are usually described with six levels from A1 to C2, and the DELE and SIELE exams use the same scale. This page explains in plain words what you can do at each level, roughly how long it takes, and how the two exams differ.
- check_circleSix levels, A1 to C2
- check_circleDELE vs SIELE
- check_circleFree trial level check
What is the CEFR?
The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) describes how well you know a language. It has three stages, A, B and C, each split into two levels: six levels in all.
Basic user
Handles basic everyday communication: introducing yourself, shopping, asking the way.
Independent user
Communicates independently at work, in study and when travelling, gives opinions and handles most situations.
Proficient user
Uses Spanish fluently and accurately, including professional, academic and complex topics.
What can you do at each level?
Hours are from our syllabus, with the running total from zero.
~38 hours in total
Everyday basics in simple sentences
Understand and use simple everyday expressions, introduce yourself, answer questions about personal details, and talk simply if the other person speaks slowly and clearly.
~92 hours in total
Familiar topics
Understand sentences about familiar topics like family, shopping and work, and describe your background and surroundings.
~124 hours in total
Handling most situations on your own
Understand the main points on familiar topics at work, school or when travelling, describe experiences and plans, and briefly give your opinion.
~164 hours in total
Natural conversation with native speakers
Understand the main ideas of complex texts, talk fluently with native speakers, and explain and support your point of view.
~224 hours in total
Fluent at work and in study
Understand long and demanding texts, express yourself fluently and naturally, and use Spanish flexibly at work and in study.
~262 hours in total
Close to native
Understand almost everything you hear or read with ease, and express fine shades of meaning precisely.
Hours are for reference only. Real progress depends on each learner and on reviewing between lessons.
DELE vs SIELE: what is the difference?
Both are official Spanish exams from Instituto Cervantes, and both report your level on the CEFR scale.
| DELE | SIELE | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | At an exam centre: written papers plus a speaking test with examiners | On a computer at an accredited centre; the speaking part is recorded |
| Levels | A1 to C2, a separate exam per level; you choose the level when you register | One exam covering A1 to C1; your score gives your level |
| Result | Pass or fail; no certificate if you fail | A score for each part; the certificate shows the level you reached |
| Certificate validity | For life | 5 years |
| Exam dates | A few fixed dates a year; register in advance | Many dates; book when your centre has a session |
| Results | About 3 months | Up to 3 weeks |
Choose DELE for a lifelong certificate
If your listening, speaking, reading and writing are fairly even and you want a certificate that never expires, take DELE at your target level.
Choose SIELE when you need proof fast
If a study or job application deadline is close, SIELE has more dates and faster results.
For registration, fees and dates, check the official Instituto Cervantes site: examenes.cervantes.es
How do I know my level?
Compare with the descriptions
Read what you can do at each level and find the one where you can do most of it.
Free trial assessment
In the trial lesson the teacher talks with you, assesses your level and suggests where to start.
Take an official exam
If you need official proof, a DELE or SIELE certificate states your CEFR level.
Questions about CEFR levels and Spanish exams
How are the CEFR, DELE and SIELE related?
expand_more
The CEFR is the scale for describing levels; DELE and SIELE are exams. Exam results use CEFR levels, so "DELE B1" means you have reached B1.
How long does it take to get from zero to B1?
expand_more
In our syllabus A1 takes about 38 hours, A2 about 54 and B1 about 32, so about 124 hours from zero to B1. Real time varies from person to person.
What level do jobs or universities ask for?
expand_more
It depends on the organisation. Jobs that use Spanish often ask for B1 to B2; for study, check the university's entry requirements.
Can children take DELE?
expand_more
Yes. There is a DELE version for students aged 11 to 17 (DELE para escolares), at A1 and A2/B1.
Do your lessons follow CEFR levels?
expand_more
Yes. Our course is organised in levels from A1 to C2, and in the trial lesson the teacher assesses your level and suggests a study plan.
Not sure of your level? Book a free trial lesson and let the teacher assess it.
calendar_today Free trial: check your level