Spanish Nationality Test (CCSE and DELE A2) — What to Expect and How to Prepare (2026)

The Two Exams You Must Pass

Since 2015, Spain requires all nationality-by-residence applicants to demonstrate integration through two exams. These apply to all non-Spanish-speaking applicants (citizens of Spanish-speaking countries are exempt from the DELE A2 but must still take the CCSE).

For a full overview of the nationality process, see our Spanish nationality and citizenship guide.

Exam 1: CCSE (Conocimientos Constitucionales y Socioculturales de Espana)

This is a test of your knowledge of Spain’s constitution, government, society, and culture.

Detail	Information
Format	25 multiple-choice questions (3 options each)
Time	45 minutes
Pass mark	15/25 correct (60%)
Topics	Spanish government and institutions (10 questions), culture and society (15 questions)
Cost	EUR 85
Where	Instituto Cervantes exam centres (Spain and worldwide)
Frequency	Monthly sessions in most locations
Pass rate	Approximately 95% (well-prepared candidates)

What Does the CCSE Test?

The 25 questions are drawn from a published question bank of 300 questions. The Instituto Cervantes publishes the full bank online, so there are no surprises. Topics include:

• The Spanish Constitution (1978)
• The monarchy and parliament (Cortes Generales)
• Autonomous communities and their competencies
• The Spanish judicial system
• Fundamental rights and duties
• Spanish geography, history, and cultural traditions
• Important Spanish figures in science, literature, and art

Exam 2: DELE A2 (Diploma de Espanol como Lengua Extranjera)

This tests basic Spanish language proficiency at the A2 level of the Common European Framework.

Detail	Information
Format	4 sections: reading, writing, listening, speaking
Time	Approximately 2.5 hours total
Pass mark	60% in each section
Cost	EUR 130
Where	Instituto Cervantes exam centres worldwide
Frequency	5-6 sessions per year
Exemptions	Nationals of Spanish-speaking countries are exempt

What Level Is A2?

A2 is basic — you need to demonstrate that you can:

• Understand short, simple texts (signs, menus, emails)
• Describe your daily routine and personal information
• Have a basic conversation about familiar topics
• Write short messages and fill in forms

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How to Prepare for the CCSE

1. Download the question bank — the Instituto Cervantes publishes all 300 possible questions on their website. Your 25 will be drawn from this pool
2. Use practice apps — several free apps and websites offer CCSE practice tests with the real questions
3. Focus on the constitution questions — these are the most factual and memorisable
4. Allow 2-4 weeks of study — most candidates who study the question bank pass on the first attempt

How to Prepare for the DELE A2

1. Start early — if you do not speak Spanish, allow 6-12 months of study before the exam
2. Practice speaking — the oral exam involves a conversation with an examiner. Practice with a tutor or language exchange partner
3. Take practice tests — the Instituto Cervantes website has sample exams
4. Focus on practical vocabulary — daily life, directions, shopping, personal information

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I fail the CCSE or DELE A2?

You can retake either exam as many times as needed. There is no penalty for failing, and your nationality application is not affected until you pass both. The CCSE can be retaken monthly; the DELE A2 sessions are less frequent (5-6 per year).

Are the exams in Spanish?

Yes, entirely. The CCSE questions are written in clear, simple Spanish. The DELE A2 is, by definition, a Spanish language test.

Can I take the exams outside Spain?

Yes. The Instituto Cervantes has exam centres in most countries worldwide. Check their website for your nearest centre.

Do EU citizens need to take these exams?

Yes. All non-Spanish nationality applicants must pass the CCSE, regardless of their current nationality. The DELE A2 exemption only applies to nationals of Spanish-speaking countries.

How long are the exam results valid?

CCSE results are valid for 4 years from the date of the exam. DELE A2 certificates do not expire. You should pass both before or during the nationality application process.