The DELE A1 exam is the first official step in proving your Spanish proficiency. It tests basic communication — understanding simple phrases, introducing yourself, and handling everyday situations. The exam is divided into four sections (called pruebas), each assessing a different skill. Below is the exact structure, timing, question count, and marking scheme you need to know.
Section 1: Reading Comprehension (Prueba 1)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Number of tasks: 4
- Number of questions: 25
- Maximum score: 25 points
You’ll read short texts — signs, ads, menus, or simple notes — and answer multiple-choice or matching questions. No complex grammar is required; the focus is on recognising familiar words and basic phrases.
Section 2: Listening Comprehension (Prueba 2)
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Number of tasks: 4
- Number of questions: 25
- Maximum score: 25 points
You’ll hear recordings of slow, clear Spanish — announcements, short dialogues, or instructions — and answer multiple-choice or true/false questions. Each recording is played twice.
Take a free DELE A1 demo mock to find out where you stand: <a href="/demo">Try the demo →</a>
Section 3: Written Expression (Prueba 3)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Number of tasks: 2
- Maximum score: 25 points
You’ll complete two short writing tasks: for example, filling in a form with personal details and writing a simple note (like a postcard or a short email). Spelling and basic sentence structure matter — but perfection isn’t expected.
Section 4: Oral Expression (Prueba 4)
- Duration: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes preparation time)
- Number of tasks: 3
- Maximum score: 25 points
You’ll have 15 minutes to prepare before the speaking test. The examiner will ask you to introduce yourself, describe a picture, and answer simple questions about daily life. The conversation is recorded for evaluation.
Marking Scheme & Pass Criteria
- Each section is scored out of 25 points.
- The exam uses a group pass system: you must pass both of these two groups:
- Group 1: Reading (Prueba 1) + Written Expression (Prueba 3) — combined score must be ≥ 30/50.
- Group 2: Listening (Prueba 2) + Oral Expression (Prueba 4) — combined score must be ≥ 30/50.
- If you pass only one group, you fail the entire exam. There is no partial certificate.
- Results are typically published 2–3 months after the exam date.
See DELE A1 mock-test packs and pricing: <a href="/plans">View plans →</a>
Key Exam Day Details
- Total exam time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes (excluding breaks and the oral test).
- Language: All instructions and content are in Spanish.
- Materials allowed: Only a pen for the written sections. No dictionaries, phones, or notes.
- Breaks: There is a short break between the written and oral sections (typically 20–30 minutes).
How to Prepare for DELE A1
- Practice each section individually. Focus on your weaker skill — for most learners it’s listening or speaking.
- Use official sample papers. The Instituto Cervantes releases free sample tests.
- Time yourself. The reading and writing sections are tight — finishing under time is part of the test.
- Record yourself speaking. Listen for clarity and basic grammar mistakes (like ser vs estar).
- Take mock tests. Simulating the full exam reduces anxiety and reveals gaps.
Where to next?
- Take a free DELE A1 demo mock: <a href="/demo">Try the demo →</a>
- Browse DELE A1 mock-test packs: <a href="/plans">View plans →</a>
- Read our DELE A1 preparation guide: <a href="/dele-a1-prep">Prep guide →</a>