The exam
What the DELE B1 is
The DELE B1 certifies an intermediate level of Spanish. It shows real autonomy: a B1 holder can live, study or work in Spanish without major day-to-day barriers.
Uses
What the DELE B1 is for
University and Erasmus
Many universities ask for B1 as minimum entry, and Erasmus programmes usually require it before you go.
Work and CV
It officially certifies your level and avoids language tests during recruitment.
A stepping stone to B2
A valid strategy: B1 adds to your CV and prepares you for B2 with more confidence.
Format
Structure of the DELE B1 exam
Reading (70 min)
Varied texts, 30 questions. Read the questions first.
Listening (40 min)
Audio at natural speed, two plays.
Writing (60 min)
A letter or email and a personal text. Watch register and connectors.
Speaking (15 + 15 min)
Monologue, conversation, photo description and a role-play dialogue.
Marking
How the DELE B1 is marked
Two groups (reading+writing / listening+speaking), each out of 50, minimum 30/50 per group.
No compensation between groups. Neglecting speaking or listening is the number-one cause of fails.
Comparison
DELE B1 or DELE B2?
B1 certifies intermediate level (everyday situations); B2, upper-intermediate (arguing, giving opinions on abstract topics). B1 gets you into most degrees and Erasmus; B2 is required for master's degrees, public exams and recognition of qualifications.
If you're borderline for B2, consider DELE B1 preparation first; if you definitely need it, go to DELE B2 preparation.
Price and dates
DELE B1 price and dates in 2026
The official fee is around €168 in Spain. Sessions in February, April, May, July, September and November. More at examenes.cervantes.es.
June 2026.
Method
How we prepare you to pass the DELE B1
Our lessons are taught by an official examiner accredited by the Instituto Cervantes. We mark to the official criteria, run real mock exams and work hard on the speaking paper, where most points are lost to nerves and unfamiliarity with the format.