What is the SIELE exam?
SIELE stands for “Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española,” meaning the International Service for Spanish Language Assessment. It is a computer-based exam taken at authorised testing centres to assess and certify Spanish proficiency for academic, professional or personal purposes.
Who can take the SIELE exam?
SIELE is intended for young people and adults who want to certify their Spanish proficiency, whether Spanish is their first, second or foreign language.
Why take the SIELE?
SIELE can help you demonstrate your Spanish proficiency when applying to universities or for employment. Before booking, check whether the organisation you are applying to accepts SIELE and what results it requires.
How can I prepare for the SIELE?
Preparing for the SIELE involves developing your Spanish skills and becoming familiar with the exam format. Review the tasks, practise under timed conditions and identify areas you need to improve. Explore the official SIELE preparation resources from Instituto Cervantes, including an exam guide and sample exam.
Where can I find SIELE practice tests?
Visit the official SIELE preparation resources to find a sample exam and learn about the tasks you will encounter.
Are there tips for taking the SIELE?
Yes. Familiarising yourself with the tasks and practising time management can help you prepare. Read our SIELE tips for study advice.
What is tested in the SIELE exam?
SIELE assesses four language skills: reading, listening, writing and speaking. You can take all four tests together as SIELE Global or choose one of the five independent exam options described below.
Reading Comprehension (CL)
The reading test contains five tasks with 38 questions. You read texts of increasing difficulty and answer questions about their meaning, vocabulary and structure. You have 60 minutes to complete the test. Answers are scored automatically, with a maximum of 250 points.
Listening Comprehension (CA)
The listening test contains six tasks with 38 questions. You listen to recordings such as conversations, interviews and presentations, then answer questions about them. Recordings include different varieties of Spanish. You have 55 minutes to complete the test. Answers are scored automatically, with a maximum of 250 points.
Written Expression and Interaction (EIE)
The writing test contains two tasks. In Task 1, you respond to a written message; the recommended length is 100–150 words. In Task 2, you choose between two prompts and write a longer response; the recommended length is 250–300 words.
You have 50 minutes to complete both tasks and can move between them. Your responses are assessed by accredited SIELE evaluators, with a maximum of 250 points.
Spoken Expression and Interaction (EIO)
The speaking test contains five tasks. You record responses to questions and prompts, which may involve personal information, describing a photograph or presenting an opinion. Each task has its own preparation and response time. Follow the timing shown on screen.
Your recordings are assessed by accredited SIELE evaluators, with a maximum of 250 points.
Can I take the SIELE in parts?
Yes. You can take all four tests together as SIELE Global or choose one of these five independent exam options:
Reading / Listening (CL + CA) — S1
Reading / Writing (CL + EIE) — S2
Listening / Speaking (CA + EIO) — S3
Speaking (EIO) — S4
Writing / Speaking (EIE + EIO) — S5
If you take SIELE Global, you receive a certificate and a digital badge. If you take an independent exam option, you receive a report. Both the certificate and report show your scores and corresponding CEFR levels and are valid for five years.
What is the difference between SIELE and DELE?
SIELE is a computer-based, multilevel exam covering levels A1–C1. It gives you a score reflecting your proficiency, and you can take the full exam or an independent exam option. Results are available within a maximum of three weeks and are valid for five years.
DELE offers separate exams at levels A1–C2, with a pass-or-fail result. Exams take place on scheduled dates, and DELE diplomas do not expire. Results take longer than SIELE results.
See the official Instituto Cervantes comparison to help you choose.
Does SIELE include different varieties of Spanish?
Yes. SIELE includes different varieties of Spanish from across the Spanish-speaking world. During preparation, practise listening to different accents and reading texts from different countries. You can use any recognised variety of Spanish in your written and spoken responses.
What should I bring when I take the SIELE exam?
Bring the valid identity document you used when registering, and make sure you know your SIELE account username and password.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment and follow your testing centre’s instructions about personal belongings and electronic devices.
How is the SIELE scored?
SIELE Global is scored from 0 to 1,000, with each of its four tests worth up to 250 points. Independent exam options are scored out of 500 for two tests or 250 for Speaking only. Results show the corresponding level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
When will I receive my SIELE test results?
Within a maximum of three weeks, you will receive an email notifying you that your results are available. Sign in to your account on the official SIELE website to download your certificate or report. SIELE Global candidates also receive a digital badge.
Where are SIELE scores accepted?
Before booking, check whether the university, employer or organisation you are applying to accepts SIELE, which exam option it requires and the minimum score you need. Acceptance depends on the receiving organisation’s requirements.
Who owns the SIELE exam?
SIELE is jointly owned by Instituto Cervantes, the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, the Universidad de Salamanca and the Universidad de Buenos Aires.
Who manages the SIELE exam?
SIELE’s administrative and commercial management is handled by Telefónica Educación Digital. Learn more in the official Instituto Cervantes SIELE FAQ.
How much does the SIELE exam cost?
The price varies according to the exam option and location. Check the current price on the official SIELE website before booking.
Where can I take SIELE?
You can take SIELE at an authorised testing centre. Visit the official SIELE website to find centres and available appointments.
How do I register for the SIELE?
Register through the official SIELE website, select your exam option and testing centre, and follow the booking and payment instructions.
Are there online tutors who can help me prepare for the SIELE?
Yes. Working with an online tutor can help you strengthen your general Spanish, grammar and conversation skills before taking the SIELE. Learn more about online Spanish courses with Web Spanish.
Are there books I can buy to prepare for the SIELE?
Yes. You can browse SIELE preparation books on Amazon and choose one that suits your Spanish level and study needs.