Compare DELE vs SIELE for university admission
For university admission, both DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) and SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) are internationally recognized Spanish proficiency certifications, but they have key differences:
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DELE is a level-specific exam (A1 to C2) where candidates choose a level and must pass all exam sections to obtain certification. It is valid indefinitely with no expiration date. Many universities and official institutions prefer DELE for admission because it certifies a fixed level of Spanish proficiency with a pass/fail outcome. 1, 2, 3, 4
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SIELE provides a flexible, score-based evaluation (scored up to 1000 points, corresponding to CEFR levels A1 to C1) with no pass or fail, indicating the candidate’s proficiency level. It offers both a complete exam and partial exams for specific skills. SIELE certificates are valid for five years. Its digital format and flexible scheduling make it convenient, but some universities might prefer DELE depending on their admission policies. 2, 3, 4, 5, 1
Summary comparison for university admission:
| Feature | DELE | SIELE |
|---|---|---|
| Certification Validity | Lifetime | 5 years |
| Exam Levels | Choose and pass one CEFR level (A1–C2) | Score-based level up to C1 |
| Result Type | Pass/Fail Certification | Score with level indication |
| Recognition | Widely accepted by universities | Recognized, but some prefer DELE |
| Exam Format | In-person, fixed dates, paper-based | Digital, flexible dates, full or partial exam options |
| Use for University Admission | Commonly required or accepted | Accepted, but verify with institution |
For university admission specifically, DELE is generally the more common and preferred choice due to its indefinite validity and clear level certification, but SIELE is gaining recognition for its flexibility and modern format. Candidates should verify the preferred certification with their target university. 3, 4, 5, 2