How is the DELE graded?

The DELE groups its four tests into two blocks. Group 1 combines reading comprehension and written expression, Group 2 combines listening comprehension and oral expression. Each group is worth 50 points, and you need at least 30 of those 50, equal to 60 percent, in both groups to pass.

What does APTO and NO APTO mean?

The DELE gives a pass or fail verdict rather than a fine-grained score. APTO means you passed and earned the diploma for that level, while NO APTO means you did not. There is no merit or distinction grade, so the only goal is clearing the 60 percent threshold in each group.

Can a strong group rescue a weak one?

No. Because the two groups are assessed independently, a near-perfect Group 1 cannot compensate for a Group 2 below 30 out of 50. Both groups must reach the threshold on their own, which is why balanced preparation across all four skills matters.

How does DELE map to CEFR?

The mapping is official and one to one. The DELE diploma names are the CEFR levels themselves: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Passing a given DELE certifies exactly that CEFR level, recognised by Spanish authorities and many universities worldwide.

Does the DELE diploma expire?

No. DELE diplomas are issued by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of Spain's Ministry of Education and have permanent validity. Once you pass a level the certification never lapses, though specific institutions may still request a recent result.

DELE Spanish Proficiency Score Converter

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The DELE, administered by the Instituto Cervantes, is Spain’s official Spanish proficiency exam, and unlike a points-based test it returns a simple verdict of APTO (pass) or NO APTO (fail). This converter applies the official grouped grading rule so you can see whether your section scores clear the bar.

How it works

The DELE bundles its four skills into two groups. Group 1 covers reading comprehension and written expression; Group 2 covers listening comprehension and oral expression. Each group is worth 50 points. To earn the diploma you must score at least 30 of those 50 points, that is 60 percent, in each group independently. The tool takes your two group percentages, checks both against the 60 percent threshold, and reports APTO only when both clear it.

This independence is the rule candidates most often miss. A brilliant Group 1 cannot lift a failing Group 2, because the thresholds apply per group, not to a combined total. The CEFR level is fixed by the exam you sat: the DELE diploma names are the CEFR levels themselves, from A1 through C2.

Tips and example

Imagine you sit DELE B2 and score 78 percent in Group 1 but only 52 percent in Group 2. Despite a high combined average you receive NO APTO, because Group 2 fell short of 60 percent. The lesson is to identify your weaker group early, usually the one mixing listening and speaking, and weight your practice toward it. Once earned, the diploma never expires.