DELE A1 vs DELE A2 — Differences and which one to choose in 2026

Updated in June 2026 · 8 min read

If you are starting to learn Spanish and want to certify your level, you are probably wondering whether to take the A1 or go directly for the A2. Here we explain the real differences between both exams so you can make the right decision.

Quick summary

Differences in grammar

DELE A1 — Only present

• Present indicative (regular + common irregulars)
• Hay / está (existence and location)
• Gustar (me gusta / no me gusta)
• Articles, possessives, demonstratives
• Interrogatives (what, where, when, how)

DELE A2 — Present + past + future

• Everything from A1, plus:
• Present perfect (he comido, he ido)
• Simple past (comí, fui, estuve)
• Ir a + infinitive (voy a estudiar)
• Estar + gerund (estoy comiendo)
• Comparatives (more... than, less... than)
• Basic imperative (come, look, listen)

Differences in vocabulary

A1: Personal data, numbers, colors, days/months, immediate family, classroom objects, basic food, the house (rooms).

A2: Everything above plus: city and transport, shopping (clothes, prices), health (doctor, symptoms), work (professions, schedules), leisure and free time, weather.

Differences in the exam

Reading comprehension

A1 (45 min, 4 tasks): Texts of 1-3 lines: signs, forms, notes.

A2 (60 min, 5 tasks): Texts of up to 250 words: emails, ads, short articles.

Listening comprehension

A1 (20 min, 4 tasks): Isolated sentences, numbers, personal data. Very slow.

A2 (35 min, 5 tasks): Short conversations, messages, announcements. Moderate speed.

Written expression

A1 (25 min, 2 tasks): Form + message of 30-40 words.

A2 (50 min, 3 tasks): Form + message of 60-70 words + guided text of 70-80 words.

Oral expression

A1 (10 min): Introduce yourself, describe a photo with simple sentences, guided dialogue with a card.

A2 (12 min): Prepared monologue, photo description, simulated dialogue, free conversation.

Which do you need for Spanish nationality?

DELE A2 is the minimum requirement. A1 is not valid for the nationality application by residency. If your goal is to obtain nationality, go directly for A2.

When does it make sense to take A1?

• You just started: You have been studying Spanish for less than 3 months and want a first official milestone.
• You need motivation: An exam with a fixed date forces you to study regularly.
• You want to familiarize yourself with the format: Passing A1 gives you confidence and experience to face A2 later.
• Academic requirement: Your university or exchange program accepts A1.

When is it advisable to jump directly to A2?

• You need nationality: A1 is not useful. Go straight to A2.
• You already have a foundation: If you have been studying for 4-6 months or live in a Spanish-speaking environment.
• Limited budget: It’s 112 € + 130 € if you take both. If you can only afford one exam, take A2.
• Limited time: With 2-3 months of intensive study, you can go straight to A2 if you already have some knowledge.

My recommendation

If your goal is nationality, take A2 directly. If you are starting from scratch and are not in a hurry, A1 is an excellent first step that prepares you for A2. Both diplomas are permanent and can be taken in any order.