What Happens If You Fail CIPLE, DELE, DELF, or CELI Exam?

What Happens If You Fail CIPLE, DELE, DELF, or CELI Exam?

You studied for weeks. You took the exam. And then you get the results: you didn't pass. It's frustrating. But it's not the end of your citizenship journey. Here's exactly what happens next - and how to pass on your second attempt.

The Reality: You're Not Alone

First-attempt pass rates: CIPLE A2 (Portugal) 75-80%, DELE A2 (Spain) 70-75%, DELF B1 (France) 60-65%, DELF B2 (France, new) 35-40%, CELI 2 B1 (Italy) 55-60%. So 20-65% of candidates fail on their first attempt.

What Happens Immediately After You Fail

Why Do People Fail?

Most common: weak speaking or writing - not because they can't learn the language. Listening: accent/speed, missed details. Reading: ran out of time. Writing: grammar, didn't follow instructions, poor organization. Speaking: too slow, one-word answers.

How to Retake the Exam

Step 1: Analyze your failure - which section(s), how far below pass mark. Step 2: Register for the next session (6-8 weeks before exam). Step 3: Prepare strategically - 50% of study time on weak areas. Step 4: Get a tutor for your weak section (2-3 hours/week). Step 5: Take the exam again. Most people pass on their second attempt.

Retake Success Rates

CIPLE A2: 80-85% pass on second attempt. DELE A2: 80-85%. DELF B1: 75-80%. DELF B2: 60-65%. CELI 2 B1: 75-80%. You now know the exact format and which skills to focus on.

Cost of Retaking

Exam fee: EUR 95-150. Tutoring (optional): EUR 320-1,440 for 8-12 weeks. Total: EUR 415-1,590. Compare to hiring a professional translator for all documents: EUR 2,000-5,000+. Retaking is 3-10x cheaper.

Read next: How to pass CIPLE A2 · How to pass DELE A2 · DELF B1 & B2 guides · Compare all exams

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