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Applying for Spanish citizenship: preparing to take the Diplomas de Espanol como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) and Constitutional and Sociacultural Knowledge (CCSE) tests
One of the pivotal parts of applying to become a Spanish citizen, or dual UK/Spanish citizen is taking the Nationality Test. This test comprises of two halves - the Language Test (DELE) and the Cultural Test (CCSE).
In this section, we explain what's involved in both aspects of the test, how you can prepare for them, and where you can go to take the test.
This guide will include the following:
The benefits of becoming a Spanish citizen
It’s important you first consider what's involved in the application process to become a Spanish national. The application process is famously lengthy and time-consuming, as the majority of citizenship applications are. However, once you know how to complete each phase it becomes easier. There are many benefits to obtaining residency in Spain, including:
- Fewer documents to carry as you travel across Europe
- The ability to take part in political activities like voting
- Officially becoming part of the Spanish community
- Having the freedom to live and work in Spain
- Enabling your family to also obtain permanent residency in Spain
- Being eligible to adopt a child in Spain
What are the DELE and CCSE tests?
As previously mentioned, there are two halves to the Spanish nationality test.
The DELE test
The language test – or DELE A2 – is one of the tests you need to take to be eligible for Spanish citizenship. The DELE A2 or Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language (Diploma De Espanol Lengua Extranjera) contains the basics of any foreign language test, including:
- Reading and Writing Skills. This section consists of two modules:
- Reading comprehension
- Written expression & interaction.
Both of these modules last approximately 60 minutes. The first module contains five practical tasks, and the second module has two tasks.
- Language Skills. This section consists of the following modules:
- Listening comprehension
- Oral expression & interaction. The first module is 35 minutes long and contains five practical tasks, and the second module lasts 15 minutes, with no tasks to complete.
- The maximum number of points you can get in the DELE A2 language test is 100 points. To pass the test, you need to get 60 points in total – 30 points in Reading and Writing Skills, and 30 points in Speaking Skills.
Though there are easier DELE tests to take, DELE A2 is the basic level needed for a successful Spanish citizenship application, or to obtain a Spanish visa.
The CCSE test
The CCSE test or Constitutional and Sociocultural Aspects of Spain (Conocimientos Constitucionales y Socioculturales de España) a pass in this test must be achieved to qualify for a Spanish citizenship. The CCSE exists to prove two things – your knowledge of the Spanish Constitution, and how much you know about Spanish culture, history, and society.
Just like the DELE A2 test, the CCSE test also has two modules. These are:
- Spanish Government, Law, and Citizenship: 15 questions (60%). This module contains 12 multiple choice and two true/false questions.
- Spanish Culture, History, and Society: 10 questions (40%). This module contains ten multiple-choice questions
To pass the CCSE test, you must answer 15 out of 25 questions correctly. To make it simple, you will be awarded a PASS or FAIL.
How long do the tests take?
The DELE A2 takes 2.5 hours to complete, and the CCSE lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Does every foreign citizen need to take the DELE & CCSE when applying for a residency permit?
The DELE A2 and CCSE are the two citizenship tests that any foreigner must pass to be granted nationality in Spain. There are exceptions, however. You do not have to take both tests if:
- You come from a Latin American country that speaks Spanish, such as Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rico, or Mexico.
- You can prove a level of Spanish language higher than A2.
- You have studied in a Spanish secondary or high school.
Where can I take the DELE A2 or CCSE Spanish nationality tests?
If you are taking the Spanish nationality tests while you are in your home country, you can book a test at your Spanish Embassy. If you live in England, for example, you will need to take your test at the Spanish Embassy in London. If you are in Spain and you'd like to apply, you can do so at any of the accredited test centres (Instituto Cervantes).
How can I prepare for the DELE A2 or CCSE tests?
Before you take both tests, you will need to research and revise everything you know about Spanish culture, history, and society, together with practising your spoken and written Spanish language skills. There are many resources online which will help to do this, including:
DELE A2 test resources
- Sample exam: https://crisolespanol.com/dele-a2-sample-exam/
- Advice from a DELE A2 candidate: https://turbolangs.com/en-gb/how-to-pass-spanish-dele-a2/
- DELE website: https://www.dele.org/
CCSE test resources
- CCSE test preparation course: https://www.tandemmadrid.com/c/preparation-course-ccse-exam/
- Practice test: https://www.passleader.com/ccse-certification.html
There are documentaries about Spanish culture that can be accessed – it would also be advisable to read about the key events in Spanish history and be alert to current news stories regarding Spain.
Giambrone can assist you in your Spanish citizenship application
Whether you've started your Spanish citizenship application or you're yet to take that first step, Giambrone’s experienced lawyers in the immigration team will be able to help with all aspects of your application; making sure you have the correct documents and guiding you through every step of the way. You can find out more about how we can help you here, or you can request a call back from us.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for a Spanish passport?
If you are married to a Spanish citizen or you have Spanish family members, you are eligible for a Spanish passport. For more on the conditions of eligibility, get in touch with Giambrone’s immigration team today.
How much do the cultural and language tests cost?
Contact the test centre directly to check as prices vary, however costs are generally from £130.
What are the methods of acquiring nationality in Spain?
There are several ways, including citizenship by descent, naturalisation, marriage, or if you are a Sephardic Jew.
What steps do you need to take before applying for Spanish citizenship?
The first step is to check your eligibility. For guidance, read this guide by our experts at Giambrone. You then need to ensure you have the correct documents. You can visit our Spanish citizenship advice centre for more information on the documents you need.
What are the requirements for Spanish nationality by residency?
You must have a Spanish mother, father, or both – or be adopted by Spanish parents while residing in Spain.
Can I retake the Spanish nationality test?
Yes, if it's to re-certify.
Related content
Applying for Spanish citizenship through descent
How to apply for Spanish citizenship through marriage
What documents do you need to apply for Spanish citizenship through marriage?