DELE A2 Exam 2026: Dates, Format & How to Pass for Spanish Citizenship
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This guide covers everything you need to know:
1. Exam Structure & Scoring
DELE A2 groups skills into pairs. You need 30 out of 50 per pair:
| Component | Duration | Points per Skill | Minimum to Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading + Writing (pair) | ~90 minutes | 25 each | 30/50 per pair |
| Listening + Speaking (pair) | ~45 minutes | 25 each | 30/50 per pair |
You need 30 out of 50 in each pair (Reading+Writing, Listening+Speaking).
Key difference from CIPLE: DELE A2 groups skills into pairs. You need 30/50 per pair, not per individual skill. This makes DELE A2 more forgiving than CIPLE A2.
2. Preparation Timeline
How long you need depends on your starting level:
- Complete beginners (A0): 12-16 weeks, 100+ hours
- Basic level (A1): 8-12 weeks, 80-100 hours
- Near A2 level: 6-8 weeks, 60-80 hours
- Native speakers: 2-3 weeks
3. Vocabulary & High-Frequency Words
You need approximately 1,000-1,500 words for passive understanding (reading and listening) and 500-800 words for active use (speaking and writing). Focus on these topics first:
- Daily routines and personal information
- Family and relationships
- Work and employment
- Shopping and food
- Travel and accommodation
- Health and hobbies
4. Speaking Section Tips
DELE A2 speaking is part of the Listening+Speaking pair. Focus on:
- Task 1: Monologue (2-3 minutes)
- Task 2: Conversation with examiner (3-4 minutes)
5. Writing Section Tips
Common mistakes that cost points:
- Grammar errors (verb tenses, agreement)
- Spelling mistakes in high-frequency words
- Not answering all parts of the question
- Using vocabulary that's too advanced or too simple
- Poor organization
6. Listening Section Tips
The listening section lasts 30 minutes with audio played twice. Focus on:
- High-frequency vocabulary
- Native speaker speed and pronunciation
- Understanding context when you miss key words
- Taking notes during both playings
7. Exam Day Countdown
What to do in the final weeks:
- 2 weeks before: Take 2-3 full practice exams
- 1 week before: Review weak areas, memorize vocabulary
- Day before: Light review, get 8+ hours sleep
- Exam day: Arrive 15-20 minutes early
8. Mock Tests & Practice
Mock tests are essential. They:
- Replicate real exam format and timing
- Help you identify weak sections
- Build exam confidence
- Show you exactly where you stand
Take at least one full mock test every week in your final 4 weeks of preparation.
FAQ
- How long is DELE A2 exam?
- Approximately 3 hours total. Reading+Writing and Listening+Speaking are scored as pairs; you need 30/50 in each pair.
- What is the pass mark for DELE A2?
- 30 out of 50 in the Reading+Writing pair and 30 out of 50 in the Listening+Speaking pair. No per-skill minimum.
- Is DELE A2 harder than CIPLE A2?
- DELE A2 is often considered more forgiving because skills are paired โ a strong score in one skill can compensate for a weaker one in the same pair.
- Does DELE certificate expire?
- No. The DELE certificate does not expire.
- How much does Prep2go cost?
- 3 months: $100, 6 months: $170, 12 months: $300, Lifetime: $500. Free 7-day trial available.