The Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) are official examinations and acredit the level of competence in the Spanish Language. It is offered in 3 levels, Inicial level, Intermediate level and Higher Level. The examination is organized by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Science and takes places twice per year.

• The Diploma de Español (Initial Level) certifies linguistic competence sufficient to understand and to react suitably to the most situations in daily life and to communicate basic desires and needs.

• The Diploma de Español (Intermediate Level) certifies linguistic competence sufficient to manage in everyday situations, in normal communication that does not require specialized use of the language.

• The Diploma de Español (Superior Level) certifies linguistic competence necessary to manage in situations that require advanced use of the language and knowledge of the culture.

The Diploma de Español levels correspond to the Common European Framework as follows:

Nivel	Denominación	Diplomas de Español
C2	Maestría	Diploma de Español (Nivel Superior)
C1	Dominio operativo eficaz
B2	Avanzado	Diploma de Español (Nivel Intermedio)
B1	Umbral	Diploma de Español (Nivel Inicial)
A2	Plataforma
A1	Acceso

Enrolment for the tests must be done through a recognized Examination Center within the terms established for each session.


ORDINARY SESSIONS
Date: 12 May 2006
Enrolment dates in Spain: From 1 March to 21 April, both inclusive

SPECIAL SESSIONS
Date: 25 August 2006
Enrolment dates in Spain: From 1 to 18 August, both inclusive.