DELE A1 vs DELE A1: differences and which to choose

Updated January 2025 · 9 min read

Overview of both levels

The DELE A1 and DELE A1 are two consecutive levels of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), but the gap between them is larger than many candidates expect. Choosing the right level can save you time, money, and frustration.

A1 corresponds to a basic user who can communicate in simple, routine situations. A1, on the other hand, certifies an independent user capable of handling most situations that arise in daily life, expressing opinions, and narrating experiences.

Differences in exam structure

Total duration

• DELE A1: approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
• DELE A1: approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes (not counting the oral test)

Reading comprehension

In A1, texts are short and straightforward: advertisements, signs, menus, short emails. In A1, you face press articles, longer informational texts, and formal correspondence. The difference isn't just length — it's syntactic and lexical complexity.

Listening comprehension

A1 audio recordings are slow, with clear pauses and limited vocabulary. In A1, the speed approaches natural speech, speakers may have different accents, and topics are more varied (news, interviews, phone conversations).

Written expression

A1 asks for texts of 70-80 words on very concrete topics (describing your house, telling your routine). A1 requires texts of 100-150 words with argumentation, opinion, and more elaborate structure.

Oral expression

In A1, oral interaction is guided and predictable. In A1, you must be able to maintain a conversation, react to unexpected questions, and express your point of view with some fluency.

The grammar and vocabulary gap

A1 grammar

• Present indicative (regular and irregular verbs)
• Basic pretérito perfecto and indefinido
• Future with "ir a + infinitive"
• Basic affirmative imperative
• Simple comparatives and superlatives
• Direct object pronouns

Additional A1 grammar

• Pretérito imperfecto and contrast with indefinido
• Simple future and conditional tenses
• Present subjunctive (wishes, opinions, value judgments)
• Negative imperative
• Conditional sentences (type 1 and 2)
• Basic reported speech
• Indirect object pronouns and combinations
• Discourse connectors (sin embargo, por lo tanto, aunque)

Vocabulary

A1 works with a vocabulary of about 1,500-2,000 words centered on immediate topics: family, shopping, transport, food. A1 expands the repertoire to 3,000-4,000 words and includes topics like health, environment, technology, education, and current affairs.

Which one do you need for Spanish nationality?

To apply for Spanish nationality, the minimum official requirement is A1 level. However, there are important nuances:

• The DELE A1 is sufficient to meet the legal language requirement
• In addition to the DELE A1, you need to pass the CCSE test (Constitutional and Sociocultural Knowledge of Spain)
• The DELE A1 or higher may exempt you from the CCSE test if obtained in a specific session that includes cultural content
• Many lawyers recommend A1 because it demonstrates greater linguistic integration

If your only goal is nationality and your Spanish level is basic, A1 is the fastest option. If you already have an intermediate level or want a more useful long-term certificate, A1 is a better investment.

When to skip A1 and go straight to A1

Going directly to A1 without taking A1 first is perfectly possible and, in many cases, advisable. Consider going straight to A1 if:

• You've been studying Spanish regularly for more than a year
• You can maintain everyday conversations without major difficulties
• You understand the general idea of texts and audio on familiar topics
• You know the past tenses (indefinido, imperfecto, perfecto)
• You live or have lived in a Spanish-speaking country

There's no point spending time and money on A1 if your actual level is already close to A1. The DELE A1 is not a prerequisite for taking the A1.

Preparation time needed

For the DELE A1

Starting from zero, you need approximately 200-250 hours of study to reach A1 level. If you already have a foundation (for example, you've completed an A1 course), you can prepare specifically for the exam in 2-3 months with 1-2 hours of daily study.

For the DELE A1

From zero, A1 requires about 400-500 accumulated hours. If you already have a solid A1 level, you'll need an additional 150-200 hours to reach A1. This translates to 3-4 months of intensive preparation (2-3 hours daily) or 5-6 months at a moderate pace (1-1.5 hours daily).

Factors that speed up preparation

• Your native language (speakers of Portuguese, Italian, or French progress faster)
• Language immersion (living in a Spanish-speaking environment)
• Previous experience with other languages
• Regular practice with native speakers
• Use of DELE-specific format materials

Cost and logistics

The DELE A1 price in Spain is around €112 and the A1 about €130 (2025 prices). The cost difference is minimal, which reinforces the idea that if your level allows it, going directly to A1 is more efficient.

Both exams are offered in the same sessions and exam centers. You can register at any authorized Instituto Cervantes center worldwide.

Our recommendation

If you're torn between A1 and A1, ask yourself these questions:

1. Can I understand a simple newspaper article in Spanish? → If yes, aim for A1
2. Can I write an email of more than 100 words expressing my opinion? → If yes, A1
3. Do I understand movies or series in Spanish with Spanish subtitles? → If yes, A1
4. Is my main goal just nationality and I'm in a hurry? → Perhaps A1 is more practical

When in doubt, take a level test or try a A1 exam model. If you score above 50% on reading and listening comprehension, you have enough foundation to prepare for A1 in a few months.