DELE Scores: Groups, APTO and Integrated Tests

A DELE result requires a joint reading of the total, individual tests and official group structure. For most levels, the tests are paired into two score groups and both groups must reach the published minimum. The highest level uses integrated tests with separate minimums. Read the level and final APTO decision together.

Edited by Ender Soyuince ALAZ SmartSystems

Last updated: November 6, 2026

Use the DELE exam guide for preparation and this page for the official scoring decision. First confirm the level printed on the result. DELE is a level diploma, and the structure used to determine APTO changes at the highest level.

Read individual tests and groups together

For DELE A1, A2, B1, B2 and C1, the maximum total is 100 points and the 4 tests are worth 25 points each. The Instituto Cervantes scoring page publishes this common structure. The qualification requires a group check in addition to the grand total.

For A1 through B2, Group 1 combines Reading Comprehension and Written Expression and Interaction, while Group 2 combines Listening Comprehension and Oral Expression and Interaction. C1 uses the same 2-group minimum with different test names: Group 1 combines Reading Comprehension and Use of Language with Written Expression, Mediation and Interaction; Group 2 combines Listening Comprehension and Use of Language with Oral Expression, Mediation and Interaction. APTO requires at least 30 points in each group. The official Instituto Cervantes table shows this structure.

This design allows performance within a group to balance to some extent and keeps both group minimums compulsory. Store the four test scores, both group sums and the final qualification in the same record.

Use the integrated structure for the highest level

DELE C2 uses a distinct structure with 3 integrated tests whose maximum scores are 33.33, 33.33 and 33.34. The official level table lists those maxima. Because each test combines several language activities, compare like-for-like test components within this structure.

For DELE C2, APTO requires at least 20 points in each of the 3 integrated tests. The Instituto Cervantes rule makes every minimum compulsory. Strong performance in one integrated test leaves the other test minimums unchanged.

Read APTO as the official outcome

The official DELE result provides the test scores and a final qualification. The Instituto Cervantes result guidance explains the qualification shown in the official process. Use that issued decision in applications and treat a self-marked practice estimate as a study aid.

A receiving institution may ask for a particular DELE level or a specific document. Open its current admissions or employment page and record the exact level, deadline and document wording. Use only the qualification and level relationships published by Instituto Cervantes.

Separate diploma validity from an application rule

Instituto Cervantes states that DELE diplomas have official, indefinite validity. A receiving institution may still specify the required level, document format and submission deadline.

Turn the profile into a practice decision

For the paired-group levels, look inside the weaker group before assigning more study time. A low group result can come from one substantially weaker test or from smaller problems across both. For the integrated highest-level tests, identify the first task where comprehension, mediation, production or interaction breaks down. Choose one observable issue and verify it on new material.

ExamLuma lets you select DELE as your target exam, follow the countdown, set a daily study-time goal and use the focus timer. After a practice test, enter your result yourself to follow the overall trend and weekly study statistics, then use the practice-test review guide to schedule the task suggested by your score review.