Deciding to take the DELE exam is a step forward in your Spanish learning journey. Whether you need it for your studies, your job, to obtain the Spanish nationality or as a personal challenge, it's a great idea because it certifies your level of Spanish internationally. Some students find it a bit intimidating, but I assure you that with the right preparation and perseverance, you can achieve it —and it is totally worth it.
In this article you will find some useful tips on how to prepare for the DELE exam and make it easier for you to pass.
Reach the right Spanish level
This is obviously very important. You need to prepare well to reach the right level for the exam you want to take. If your current level is B2, it is practically impossible for you to pass a DELE C1 exam. For this reason, you must study hard enough to reach the right level, for which it is highly recommended that you take Spanish classes with a qualified teacher.
The levels of Spanish that the DELE exams follow are those of the Common European Framework.
Get to know what the DELE exam entails
Be careful, because reaching the right level does not mean that you are ready to take the DELE. In order to be ready, it is essential that you familiarise yourself with the structure of the exam and the tasks in each part. Like any official exam, the DELE has a specific structure. I therefore suggest that you take specific DELE preparation courses and mock exams.
Each test consists of various tasks that assess four skills:
Reading comprehension
Written expression and interaction
Listening comprehension
Oral expression and interaction
Be aware of the time you spend
Each part of the exam has a time limit, so it will help you to keep track of the time you spend on each task, even if you are studying to prepare for the exam.
Learn the Spanish vocabulary
To prepare for the DELE exam, it is essential to study specific vocabulary for each level, as each level tests different language skills. Vocabulary varies according to the level, from basic words and expressions at A1 to more complex language at higher levels such as C1 and C2. To learn it effectively, it is advisable to make thematic lists, use flashcards and revise regularly. Your Spanish teacher can help you with this and you can also study with a level-specific vocabulary book.
Read carefully the instructions on what you are asked to write about
At each DELE level, students are required to write two or three different types of texts, such as an email response to an invitation, a formal letter of complaint or an opinion article. It is important that you understand the instructions you are given so that you can write a text that meets the requirements. You should also practise your writing with your Spanish teacher so that you can use the right linking words and structure your texts.
Get a good book to read in Spanish
Reading a Spanish book in your free time can help you to see expressions and vocabulary in context, as well as familiarise you with Spanish sentence structure and discourse connectors.
Practice different types of listening tasks
To prepare for the listening part of the DELE exam, it is key to practice with audios and materials that simulate the format of the exam, such as recordings of conversations, interviews and reports. Use listening comprehension exercises specific to the DELE, do practice tests and repeat. It can be very useful if, in addition to DELE classes with a Spanish teacher, you practise the listening part at home with a DELE preparation book.
Try to stay calm during the DELE oral exam
I know, sometimes it's not easy to control your nerves. However, feeling calm and confident can really help you to do well in the DELE oral exam. The key to this is to practice with a native Spanish teacher who will help you gain confidence in speaking Spanish. It's important that you speak and don't hesitate. Don't worry all the time about whether you're doing well. I know it sounds strange, but if you can make yourself enjoy speaking in the oral test, it can make an incredible positive difference.
Prepare with a DELE Spanish teacher
Studying for the DELE with a specialised Spanish teacher can really make a difference and is a key point for passing the exam. They will know how to guide you, suggest exercises that are right for you and help you improve the skills where you need it most.
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