Level B2University and recognitionPermanent validity

DELE B2: the official upper-intermediate Spanish exam

B2 is the most requested level — and where the most candidates with good Spanish end up failing. At delesiele we prepare you online with lessons taught by an official examiner accredited by the Instituto Cervantes: we know what examiners assess and where points are lost.

The exam

What the DELE B2 is

The DELE B2 certifies an upper-intermediate level: interacting fluently with native speakers, understanding complex texts and arguing a point of view. It is the qualitative leap of the DELE and the most in demand in academic and professional settings.

Uses

What the DELE B2 is for

University and master's

Most universities require B2 as a minimum for degrees and master's in Spanish.

Recognition of qualifications

To practise in Spain (healthcare, engineering, architecture), a B2 is usually required.

Skilled work

A reference level at international companies and institutions.

Format

Structure of the DELE B2 exam

Reading (70 min)

Long, complex texts, 36 questions. Don't try to understand everything; locate the information.

Listening (40 min)

Native speed, varied accents, two plays.

Writing (80 min)

A formal text from audio and an argumentative text. This is where a real B2 shows over a B1.

Speaking (20 + 20 min)

Presenting pros and cons and a dialogue. It's not describing — it's arguing.

Marking

How the DELE B2 is marked

Two groups, each out of 50, minimum 30/50 each, no compensation.

The B2 trap

Many arrive with good spoken Spanish and neglect speaking or listening, thinking it's in the bag. They fail for not learning to argue with the exam's structure.

Difficulty

Why the B2 is demanding for non-natives

Three shifts from B1: broader, more precise vocabulary; arguing instead of describing; and speed and accuracy under pressure.

Comparison

DELE B2 or DELE C1?

B2 certifies autonomy and argument; C1, advanced command (nuance, irony, complex texts). If your B2 is solid and you read the press without a dictionary, go to DELE C1 preparation.

Price and dates

DELE B2 price and dates in 2026

The official fee is around €196 in Spain. It is the most in-demand level: register early. More at examenes.cervantes.es.

Last updated

June 2026.

Method

How we prepare you to pass the DELE B2

Our lessons are taught by an official examiner accredited by the Instituto Cervantes. At B2 the official marking is decisive: the difference between passing and failing is specific details. We teach you to structure the argumentative text and prepare the speaking paper thoroughly with recorded mocks.

Keep exploring

Related pages

Book your first preparation lesson

Tell us which level you are taking and when. In the first lesson we assess your level and map out your personalised plan to pass.

Book your first lesson Write to us before booking

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about the DELE B2

Demanding, especially for non-natives. The difficulty isn't knowing Spanish but knowing how to argue and the criteria.

With a fairly solid B2, between 10 and 20 lessons.

About three months later.

You repeat the whole exam and pay the fee again.

Yes, but if you only want citizenship, DELE A2 preparation is the better fit.

Yes, the exams are independent.