CCSE and DELE A2 exams for Spanish nationality
For nationality by residence you must show that you know Spain and, if you are not a Spanish speaker, that you speak Spanish. Here is what both exams are like.
The CCSE: knowledge of Spain
The CCSE (Constitutional and Sociocultural Knowledge of Spain) is run by the Instituto Cervantes. It is a multiple-choice test on the Constitution, government, history, geography and daily life in Spain.
- It has 25 questions and you need at least 15 right.
- The questions come from a public handbook you can study beforehand.
- It is normally held on the last Thursday of each month (except August and December) at centres all over Spain.
- Registration includes two sittings: if you fail or don’t show up, you can retake it without paying again.
- The CCSE certificate is valid for 4 years.
The DELE A2: Spanish level
The DELE A2 is the official basic-level Spanish diploma. It has reading, listening, writing and speaking tests. It is held several times a year and the diploma does not expire.
Who has to take each one?
- Spanish speakers (nationals of countries where Spanish is an official language): only the CCSE.
- Non-Spanish speakers: the CCSE and the DELE A2.
- Minors and people whose legal capacity has been modified by a court: no exams.
- People who completed compulsory secondary education (ESO) in Spain may be exempt from the DELE A2. People who cannot read or write or have learning difficulties can also ask to be excused from the DELE.
How we help
The assistant tells you which exams you need according to your country and situation, and we include them in a fixed final price. We register you at the centre and date that suit you best and, when you pass, we prepare and submit your nationality application.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions does the CCSE have?
25 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 15 right to pass.
Do Spanish speakers have to take the DELE?
No. Nationals of countries where Spanish is an official language only have to pass the CCSE.
What happens if I fail?
CCSE registration includes a second sitting. If you fail again, you can register again.
Where are the exams held?
At Instituto Cervantes exam centres all over Spain. We register you at the one that suits you best.